Crafting Your Own Unique Edo Kiriko Glass in Asakusa (With Lecture Session)

【STORY】

Whether you're familiar with Edo Kiriko or discovering it for the first time, one thing is certain – you'll be captivated by its delicate beauty through the hands-on experience. 

In the bustling town of Asakusa, widely known for attracting domestic and international tourists with iconic landmarks like the Kaminarimon Gate and Senso-ji Temple, did you know it's also a hidden gem for artisans and craftsmen? 

With the blessing of the Sumida River's water transportation, Asakusa flourished as the birthplace of Edo culture, drawing people seeking entertainment like Kabuki and spiritual refuge at temples. Today, it not only cherishes traditional craftsmen who have supported geisha culture, Kabuki, festivals, and temples but also continues to be a thriving hub for contemporary creators—a town that crafts things. 

One such establishment preserving the tradition is Glass Factory Sokichi, offering an experience with the age-old art of Edo Kiriko.

Known for handling a wide range of glasses, from foreign to original Edo Kiriko, Glass Factory Sokichi is cherished by numerous restaurants and bartenders worldwide. Collaborating with Japanese craftsmen and small factories, we offer unique products, including the original Sokichi Kiriko. Drawing from Sokichi's background in meticulous craftsmanship as both a producer and artisan, deeply committed to the pursuit of 'beauty in utilitarian objects,' the original Edo Kiriko experience offered here is truly one of a kind.

Free from rigid conventions, the experience encourages participants to think about how they can enjoy Edo Kiriko. Sokichi constantly expands glass varieties, considers patterns for selection, and pursues entertainment while providing customers with an experiential platform. Edo Kiriko, with its intricate cut patterns, is delightful to behold, but crafting your own glass with a chosen pattern adds a touch of vibrancy to everyday meals and relaxation. 

In response to those eager to learn more about Edo Kiriko, we've prepared a plan with a lecture. Tailored to your interests, we provide insights into the history of cutting glass, the artisans' dedication, various tools used, and more. Exploring the stories behind the beautiful glasses enhances your understanding of the depth and fascination of cut glass.

Whether you're familiar with Edo Kiriko or discovering it for the first time, the experience is sure to captivate you through its delicate beauty. Visit Glass Factory Sokichi and indulge in your personalized Edo Kiriko experience. 

What is Edo Kiriko? 

Originating in the late Edo period in 1834, Edo Kiriko began when the common people of Edo added cut glasswork to Western-style glass. This tradition has been passed down without interruption, designated as a traditional craft of Tokyo in 1985 and a traditional craft of Japan in 2002. Referring to glass crafts produced in Tokyo, Edo Kiriko is characterized by its stylish cuts featuring soft curves. 

*We also offer plans only with the cutting glass experience.
Crafting Your Own Unique Edo Kiriko in Asakusa: A One-of-a-Kind Experience in the Town of Artisans

【HIGHLIGHTS】 

• Explore the depth and fascination of cutting glass through the history and stories of this intricate art.
  
• Experience the time-honored traditional craft of Edo Kiriko, which has continued since the Edo period first-hand.
  
• Choose from a diverse range of glasses, made possible by Glass Factory Sokichi's extensiSelect your favorite design from dozens of samples to carve along the side and bottom.
• Create a glass that is uniquely yours, adding a touch of beauty to your everyday life with Edo Kiriko.
  
• Take home the one-of-a-kind glass you personally carved, adding a unique touch to your surroundings.
  
• Enjoy a convenient location just a short walk from the station, allowing for an easy combination of Asakusa sightseeing and a casual yet authentic experience.
  

【SCHEDULE】

You can choose the start time for this plan. Please choose your preferred start time when you make your reservation.

[09:45 / 12:30] Learn the story of cutting glass (lecture)

[10:15 / 13:00] Learn how to cut Kiriko glass (lecture), practice cutting glass (20 minutes) 

[10:35 / 13:20] Choose and carve the pattern for the bottom of your preferred glass (30 minutes) 

[11:05 / 13:50] Choose and carve the pattern for the side of your preferred glass (30 minutes) 

[11:35 / 14:20] At the photography corner, capture an image of your one-of-a-kind original glass with your own mobile phone or camera

[11:45 / 14:30] End; take home the completed glass 

・As part of the plan with a lecture, you will delve into the history and stories of cutting glass. This knowledge enriches your experience, allowing you to appreciate the depth and fascination of cut glass even more.
・We provide a tailored guidance for each individual's skill level, providing enjoyment for a wide range of ages from beginners and children to adults.
・The created pieces are carefully placed in a box on the spot for you to take home.
(Delivery service is available for a fee. For customers residing overseas who wish to have their glass delivered to a domestic accommodation facility, please arrange with sufficient lead time.)

【Other things to note】

• Duration：2 hours

• Meeting Point： Glass Factory Sokichi　[MAP]
  2-1-14, Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 111-0034
  

• Access：
  ●Tokyo Metro Ginza Line:
  Exit from Asakusa Station's 4th exit and walk immediately.
  The studio is located two buildings ahead from "Gonpachi" on the ground level. Next to "Yomo Saketen,"
  you will find a shop displaying numerous glasses.
   ●Toei Subway Asakusa Line:
  From Asakusa Station's A3 exit, it's a few minutes on foot. Take the narrow road beside "Hongkong-tei," next to the Kaminarimon Post Office.
  Turn right and then left at the end; it's approximately 300 meters ahead.
  Note: About a 5-minute walk from the Kaminarimon Gate of Senso-ji Temple.

• Language Support：Japnese, English
  *If you choose English, the entire explanation will be conducted in English.
  

• Included ：
  ・Experience fee
  ・One clear glass
  

• Excluded
  ・Colored overlay glass (Available for selection at an additional cost)
  ・Delivery fee
  

• Items to bring：We recommend you to bring the following items if necessary.
  ・Glasses / reading glasses
  ・Hair bands (provided if required)

• Participation requirements：Children aged 9 and above can participate in the experience.

• Free Wi-Fi：No

• Toilet：Yes（Western-style）

• Other things to note ：
  If you plan to accompany and participate with your child, we appreciate it if you could contact us in advance. As the tasks require concentration, there may be instances where accompaniment is not possible. We appreciate your understanding.
  

【CANCELLATION POLICY】

Until 72 hours before the experience start time: 0%
From 72 hours before the experience start time to start time: 100%
Cancellation after the experience has started or cancellation without contact: 100%