VISIT KANAZAWA, JAPAN - Official Travel Guide

A Premier Encounter with UNESCO Cultural Heritage

The Only Program in Kanazawa to Experience the Authentic "Entsuke" Gold Leaf Process

① Choose from Three Curated Plans

• Light Plan (30 min / ¥1,980): A refined introduction to the craft, focusing on the "Utsushishigoto" (leaf trimming) process with expert staff guidance.

• Standard Plan (60–70 min / ¥6,600): A deeper immersion involving multiple production stages, supported by our professional staff.

• Master Plan (90–100 min / ¥16,500): An exclusive, high-end experience featuring direct instruction from a master artisan, offering a profound mastery of traditional techniques.

② Hands-on Experience of Authentic Artisanship Engage in the essential steps of gold leaf production, including Shiire (preparation), Uchimae (beating), Nukishigoto (leaf removal), and Utsushishigoto (trimming). Beyond mere observation, you will feel the profound depth and delicate nature of the craft through your own fingertips.

③ An Intellectual Journey into Heritage Our artisans and staff will provide insightful commentary, answering the "why" behind every movement. Gain a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance of Kanazawa gold leaf as you touch and create.

Plan Details

【Light Plan】

A graceful introduction for those who wish to touch the world of gold leaf. This program provides a foundational understanding of how gold leaf is created.

• Focus: Utsushishigoto—the delicate task of trimming gold leaf into perfect squares using a traditional bamboo frame. Experience the thrill of handling genuine gold leaf for the first time. With support from our expert staff, even beginners can enjoy this experience with peace of mind.

【Standard Plan】

For those seeking a deeper immersion into the heart of the workshop. This comprehensive program allows you to practice the primary stages of gold leaf production.

• Focus: * Shiire: Placing gold "Sumi" (thin sheets) between specialized Washi paper.

  • Nukishigoto: Transferring the beaten gold leaf onto paper.

  • Utsushishigoto: Trimming the leaf into its final square form. Witness professional demonstrations up close, understand the technical significance of each step, and retrace the artisan's path with your own hands. Move from "knowing" to "truly feeling" the allure of this craft.

【Master Plan】

An elite experience: Private instruction from a Master Artisan. Our most prestigious program offers a rare opportunity to step inside the actual workshop and learn Kamishikomi (paper preparation)—one of the most vital and secret stages of gold leaf making.

• Exclusive Features:

  • Direct guidance from a master artisan on the art of Kamishikomi.

  • A private dialogue with the artisan, including a tour of the adjacent factory.

  • Full immersion in the Shiire, Uchimae, and Nukishigoto processes. This is the only plan that reveals the intricate techniques used to prepare the specialized paper that allows gold to be beaten to such impossible thinness. A truly unique journey for those who demand the essence of Japanese tradition.

The Heart of Tradition

Unlike simple gold leaf gilding, this experience takes you to the "Core of Traditional Technology." Discover the answer to the question, "How is gold leaf truly made?" through the sensory experience of your own hands.

Information

• Eligibility: Adults (Maximum of 2 guests per session)

• Reservations: Required in advance (via Online or Phone)

• Location: Hakuza Main Store (1-30-4 Moriyama, Kanazawa)

• Experience Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Store Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM)

• Closed: Open daily (Subject to irregular closures)