- Enter the private area of Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi factory and see how lacquer is refined

- Tour the store and learn about innovative ways of using Japanese urushi lacquer initiated by the factory owner

- See urushi lacquer on modern-day goods such as surfboards, skateboards and bicycles

- Learn about the importance of preserving urushi lacquer culture

- Apply lacquer to chopsticks during a private workshop and take them with you as a present

Kyoto's Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi factory refines over 70% of Japan's domestic urushi lacquer (the sap of the Japanese lacquer tree) and delivers high quality lacquer to lacquerware artisans and craftsmen around the entire country. Founded in 1909, Tsutsumi Asakichi Urushi factory witnessed the decline of production and use of traditional Japanese urushi lacquer throughout the 20th century. The current 4th generation owner aims to reestablish the presence of urushi in everyday life by promoting the safe use of high quality lacquer not only for traditional items, but also for modern-day goods. In this experience you will have a private area tour of the factory and apply lacquer on chopsticks.