




Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
History and Evolution of Sashiko
Sashiko, meaning “little stabs,” dates to the Edo period (1603–1868). It began as a practical way to reinforce and insulate clothing, used by farmers and fishermen to mend garments for harsh winters. Over time, it evolved into an art form, with regions developing unique patterns rich in cultural and symbolic meaning.
The Workshop Experience
In this hands-on session, you’ll learn basic Sashiko stitches while creating a keychain inspired by a traditional hapi coat. The workshop starts with a brief history, followed by demonstrations and guided practice. Held in a historic Kyoto building in an active artist district, you’ll stitch surrounded by local creativity.
Uji tea and arare (seasoned rice crackers) are served to complement the experience.
Take aways
You’ll leave with a handmade keychain, practical Sashiko skills, and a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. The studio also offers curated Sashiko goods and kits, with cash-purchase discounts.
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Set in a quiet artist district near Kiyomizu Gojo Station, this hands on Sashiko studio invites you to learn the fundamentals of Japan’s traditional stitching craft in a historic Kyoto building surrounded by working artists. Instead of the coaster made in the Osaka experience, you will create a small keychain inspired by the patterns and style of a traditional Japanese hapi coat. During the session, you will also be served Uji tea and arare, traditional seasoned rice crackers that reflect Kyoto’s tea culture. The studio is led by Jun, a recognized Japanese artisan who has exhibited across Japan and abroad, and if you enjoy the craft, you can also browse the studio’s carefully selected Sashiko pieces on display.
Completed Sashiko Project: Take home your handcrafted Sashiko item
All Necessary Tools and Materials: Fabrics, needles, threads, and other specific tools provided
Experienced Instructor: Guided instruction from skilled Sashiko artisans throughout the workshop
You will also be served Uji tea and arare, traditional seasoned rice crackers
Transportation to the Venue
Personal or travel insurance
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Becky H,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Nene is an excellent teacher! She is kind, patient, has good visual props and explanations to try basic sashiko. She welcomes mistakes for the complete beginner like I was!
Julia E,May 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
Excellent small group (6) experience with an artist who has a deep understanding, respect and passion for traditional Japanese fiber arts. Jun is a skilled contemporary artist incorporating ancient techniques into his contemporary creations. He is a patient and kind teacher. The project he chose gave all the basics of sashiko and was able to be completed in the class time.
Marian C,May 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
A wonderful time spent stitching with a very experienced sashiko teacher. I felt very welcomed and the class was unhurried, instructions clear and conversation flowed. Delightful time.
Cheryl Y,Apr 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
I learned so much about sashiko from Jun in a relaxed and informative small group setting tucked away on one of the side streets. There are hand dyed threads and sashiko supplies available for purchase. Highly recommend!
Etta M,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Learning Sashiko stitch work from Jun was one of the highlights of visiting Kyoto. From the moment the workshop began, it was clear how deeply he values both the craft and its lineage. Jun brought a beautiful collection of antique boro and Sashiko-stitched textiles to inspire us—including his incredible hand-stitched sneakers. It was my first time seeing authentic boro pieces from generations past, and it made our time together feel so alive and meaningful. He even plant-dyed the threads included in our Sashiko kits, adding another layer of care and intention to the experience. He also had a mini shop set up with kits, plant-dyed threads, and tools, making it easy for those who want to continue practicing this craft after the workshop. His instruction was thorough and thoughtful. He began by introducing us to the history of this ancient craft and explained multiple ways of preparing Sashiko thread for our projects—such as where to cut a full skein and how to store thread so it doesn’t get tangled. He demonstrated how to get started, taught us different knotting techniques, and guided us in choosing our stitch pattern templates. He also explained the differences between thick and thin threads, when to use each, and introduced tools like a special chalk pencil for marking patterns. One of the most memorable parts of the workshop was the relaxed stitching time. We sat together as a group, sewing and sharing stories about life in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. His assistant served us green tea along with delicious snacks, including crackers and mochi. I appreciated being able to ask questions about my own stitching—like how to baste properly and how to make both sides of the work, including the back, look beautiful. I was especially excited to learn from a Japanese teacher in Japan, and I appreciated hearing how he became a Sashiko artist, as well as learning about his fashion design business in Osaka. By the end of the workshop, we had all completed our Sashiko-stitched keychains, and I left with a happy smile and a renewed sense of creative excitement for future projects. Thank you, Jun, for your generosity, inspiration, and for sharing the beauty of Sashiko with us.





ETTA M,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
Learning Sashiko stitch work from Jun was one of the highlights of visiting Kyoto. From the moment the workshop began, it was clear how deeply he values both the craft and its lineage. Jun brought a beautiful collection of antique boro and Sashiko-stitched textiles to inspire us—including his incredible hand-stitched sneakers. It was my first time seeing authentic boro pieces from generations past, and it made our time together feel so alive and meaningful. He even plant-dyed the threads included in our Sashiko kits, adding another layer of care and intention to the experience. He also had a mini shop set up with kits, plant-dyed threads, and tools, making it easy for those who want to continue practicing this craft after the workshop. His instruction was thorough and thoughtful. He began by introducing us to the history of this ancient craft and explained multiple ways of preparing Sashiko thread for our projects—such as where to cut a full skein and how to store thread so it doesn’t get tangled. He demonstrated how to get started, taught us different knotting techniques, and guided us in choosing our stitch pattern templates. He also explained the differences between thick and thin threads, when to use each, and introduced tools like a special chalk pencil for marking patterns. One of the most memorable parts of the workshop was the relaxed stitching time. We sat together as a group, sewing and sharing stories about life in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. His assistant served us green tea along with delicious snacks, including crackers and mochi. I appreciated being able to ask questions about my own stitching—like how to baste properly and how to make both sides of the work, including the back, look beautiful. I was especially excited to learn from a Japanese teacher in Japan, and I appreciated hearing how he became a Sashiko artist, as well as learning about his fashion design business in Osaka. By the end of the workshop, we had all completed our Sashiko-stitched keychains, and I left with a happy smile and a renewed sense of creative excitement for future projects. Thank you, Jun, for your generosity, inspiration, and for sharing the beauty of Sashiko with us. It was a gift to learn from you!
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