Experience Kyoto's Rich Cultural Heritage at NIWA
Starting September 8, 2026, NAKED, INC. is launching a series of engaging cultural workshops at NIWA, located on the 7th floor of Kyoto Station’s East Square. This initiative allows both locals and tourists to immerse themselves in Kyoto's rich traditional crafts such as Ikebana, Yuzen dyeing, and bamboo crafts, among others. These workshops will be held every Tuesday and Thursday, providing a convenient experience for those traveling through Kyoto.
The Perfect Blend of Tradition and Accessibility
NIWA serves as an innovative space designed to make Kyoto's culture, food, and traditions more accessible to everyone. Opened in 2025, it features artworks such as a bamboo art installation by renowned artist Akane Teshigawara and a beautiful stone garden by Katsuaki Ogawa, designed to evoke the essence of Kyoto. This unique atmosphere offers the perfect backdrop for learning and experiencing traditional crafts, allowing participants to appreciate not just the beauty of these traditions but also their historical significance.
A Unique Hands-On Experience
The workshops at NIWA are designed to offer more than just observation. Participants will actively engage in creating their own artworks, guided by skilled instructors. Each workshop lasts approximately 40 to 60 minutes, making it easy to fit into your travel schedule, whether you're exploring Kyoto or waiting for your Shinkansen. The sessions include:
- - Ikebana Experience: Under the guidance of Ikebana's esteemed Ikebana Ikenobo school, you’ll learn the art of flower arrangement, a practice that has roots dating back centuries.
- - Yuzen Dyeing: Discover the centuries-old technique of hand-drawing Yuzen dyeing, creating your unique handkerchief in the process.
- - Kyo-Yaki Gold Leaf Experience: Use the Kyoto technique of Surihaku to decorate your own tote bag with gold and silver leaf, choosing from various designs to make it distinctly your own.
- - Bamboo Crafting: Work with a skilled craftsman to create a traditional bamboo basket, perfect for holding flowers or small items.
- - Kyo Armor Assembly: Learn the critical technique known as Odoshi to create your unique piece of Kyo armor, picking colors to match your style.
Workshop Details
- - Availability: Begins September 8, 2026, with sessions every Tuesday and Thursday.
- - Time: Workshops run from 14:00 to 17:00, lasting around 40 to 60 minutes each.
- - Fee: 4,500 yen (includes a drink from NIWA).
- - Capacity: Up to 6 participants per session (individuals welcome).
- - Reservation: Last-minute booking available until 16:00 on the day of the workshop.
- - Location: Inside NIWA at Kyoto Station's East Square (7th floor).
Note: The workshops are conducted in Japanese with English text materials available for international visitors. Guests are encouraged to check the specific reservation sites for booking options.
Connecting Tradition with Modern Experiences
NAKED, INC. aims to present Kyoto's allure in a more interconnected way through its project “NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO,” which highlights the fusion of culture, arts, and the natural landscape. NIWA is strategically positioned at Kyoto Station, serving as a cultural gateway where travelers can engage with Japan's rich heritage right upon their arrival in Kyoto. Far from being just a quick stop-off point, NIWA establishes itself as a robust center for cultural exchange, expertly blending tradition with contemporary expression.
For further details, visit NIWA's official website and their Instagram page. This vibrant initiative promises to create unforgettable memories for anyone wishing to experience Kyoto's timeless elegance.
NIWA Official Website
Instagram
Experience the elegance of Kyoto’s traditional arts at NIWA and take home a piece of this beautiful city’s culture!