Edo culture incorporating "beauty" into daily life - Making your own "silver bookmark" with a craftsman

【STORY】

In 1867, at the World Exposition held in Paris, a particular Japanese product gained immense popularity worldwide due to its advanced artistic and technical qualities. This product was the silverware, which continues to be crafted by artisans known as silver craftsmen or 銀師 (shiroganeshi) to this day.

Japan had been developing silver mines since the 16th century, becoming one of the leading silver-producing countries globally, often referred to as the "Island of Silver" by other nations. 

Silver, being a precious metal, could be delicately shaped without breaking or cracking during processing. It could be thinly stretched, and it had the highest reflectivity for light among metals, giving it a beautiful shine. 

During the Edo period (1603-1868), silver in Japan was not only used for currency but also incorporated into various items such as hair ornaments, combs, and festival floats, showcasing its versatility. This cultural prosperity is documented in the Edo-era book 人倫訓蒙図彙 Jinrinkinmouzui (Illustrated Encyclopedia of Moral Lessons for Humanity), which depicts various artisan crafts. 

In contemporary times, due to influences from other countries and changing trends, the number of silver craftsmen has decreased. Nevertheless, in Tokyo's Kuramae district, there are craftsmen who have inherited the techniques from the late Edo period. 

At Nisshin-Kikinnzoku, silverware is crafted not merely as daily utensils but as items of beauty, emphasizing the delicate technique unique to Japan, creating silverware that embodies the concept of beauty in functionality. 

This approach reflects the sophisticated Edo culture that finds beauty even in everyday items and promotes the intrinsic Japanese value of cherishing possessions for an extended period rather than disposing of them. 

This program offers an opportunity to experience the craft of silverware making while learning from these skilled artisans. Immerse yourself in the distinctive culture and charm of Japanese silverware!

【HIGHLIGHT】 

• Learn the art of silverware crafting from a 12th generation shiroganeshi (silver craftsman) who has inherited techniques from the Edo period.
  
• Craft your own unique silver bookmark using 970 silver.
  
• Take home your crafted item as a memorable souvenir!
  
• We will guide you carefully with a professional guide.
  

【SCHEDULE】

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

*The following is an example of the schedule
*Please be aware that the experience duration may vary depending on the customer 

[10:00] Gather at the Nisshin-Kikinnzoku workshop 

[10:00] Explanation of the tools used in bookmark crafting 

[10:10] Receive the silver materials for your bookmark 

[10:15] Decide on a pattern (create an original pattern) 

[10:20] Explanation of the hammer used for creating the pattern 

[10:40] Use the hammer to imprint the pattern, embellishing it with your unique design 

[10:50] Finish the bookmark with hand polishing
            The more you polish, the shinier it becomes 

[11:00] Complete your one-of-a-kind original bookmark

【EXPERIENCE SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION】

◆ About Nisshin-Kikinnzoku

Nisshin-Kikinnzoku is a workshop in Kuramae, Tokyo, specializing in silverware, inheriting techniques from renowned silver craftsmen dating back around 200 years. In the modern era, they propose new silverware suitable for future generations.
For instance, items like pure silver spoons safe for babies and bangles suitable for everyday fashion. By aligning with customers' lifestyles, Nisshin-Kikinnzoku brings out the new allure of silverware.

◆ About "Highest Purity" Pure Silver

Nisshin-Kikinnzoku uses a higher purity of silver, known as 970 silver, compared to the standard. This silver is not only highly flexible but also emits a more beautiful shine. Items crafted from 970 silver not only last a long time but also develop a deeper character with prolonged use, providing an evolving and enjoyable experience.

◆ Bookmark Crafting Experience

We introduce a beginner-friendly Original Silver Bookmark crafting experience. The unique reflection of silver adds a luxurious touch, making reading enjoyable. Whether as a gift for friends or a souvenir for yourself, this experience is popular both domestically and internationally.

〇 Overview of Silver Bookmark

- Material: 970 Silver is used.
- Length: Approximately 15 to 20 centimeters
- Pattern: Craft your original pattern with guidance from the artisan.
  ※ Due to tool constraints, complex patterns may not be feasible. (Images are for illustration purposes; actual patterns may vary.)

【Other things to note】

• Duration：1 hour
• Meeting Point：Nisshin-Kikinnzoku Silver Craftsman Workshop Experience　[MAP]
  Ito Building 1st floor, 1-3-13, Misuji, Taito, Tokyo, 111-0055
  
• Access：
  ・6 minutes on foot from Exit A3 of Kuramae Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
  ・10 minutes on foot from Exit A5 of Kuramae Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
  ・11 minutes on foot from Exit A4 of Asakusabashi Station on the Toei Asakusa Line.
  
• Langage Support：Japanese, English-speaking guide
  
• Included：
  ・Experience fee
  ・Tools and materials
  ・Silver bookmark
  ・Guide fee
• Excluded：
  ・Transportation costs to the experience location
  
• Clothes：Please come in casual attire
  ＊We will be sitting on the ground for the experience, so we recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows for ease of participation＊
  
• Free wi-fi：No
  
• Toilet：No
• Other things to note：
  ・This plan is subject to reservation requests.
  ・Please be aware that depending on availability and the number of participants, there may be cases where we cannot accommodate your request or we may need to offer an alternative date. We appreciate your understanding.
  

【Cancelletion 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%