Do You Know About Japan’s Ultimate Craftsmen, “A Master of Traditional Craft”?

The certification system for “A master of traditional craft” was established in 1974 to expand the demand for traditional crafts and cultivate successors. This prestigious title is awarded by the Association for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries to craftsmen who are engaged in the production of traditional crafts and have superior skills, knowledge, and experience. It is a national qualification that can only be obtained by passing rigorous assessments, including work inspections and written and practical exams.

About “A Master of Traditional Craft” in Japan

The Association for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries recognizes craftsmen who are engaged in the production of traditional crafts designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry and possess advanced skills and techniques.

These craftsmen bear the responsibility of preserving the unique traditional crafts of their region, honing their skills and techniques, and passing them on to future generations. Currently, about 3,600 craftsmen nationwide hold the title of “A master of traditional craft.” These craftsmen make up less than 10% of all craftsmen in their respective regions, truly making them specialists in traditional craft techniques.

Qualified “A Master of Traditional Craft”

To be certified as “A master of traditional craft,” one must be actively engaged in the production of traditional crafts designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry (241 items) and have at least 12 years of practical experience. Additionally, they must generally reside within the region where the craft is produced.

About Traditional Crafts in Japan

The Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry currently designates 241 items as traditional crafts. These crafts have been made using advanced techniques and methods over long periods of history and are still in use today. However, the traditional craft industry faces various challenges, such as decreasing demand due to changes in Japanese lifestyles, difficulties in securing successors, shortages of raw materials, and rising prices.

Requirements for Designation of Traditional Crafts

To be designated as a traditional craft by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, the following conditions must be met:

The item is primarily used in daily life.
The main part of its manufacturing process is done manually.
It is manufactured using traditional techniques or methods.
The primary raw materials traditionally used have been employed in its production.
A significant number of people are engaged in its production within a certain region.

(Note) The raw materials and techniques must have a history of over 100 years.

Traditional Crafts of Tokyo (21 Items)

Textiles (3 Items)

Dyed Goods (4 Items)

Wood and Bamboo Crafts (2 Items)

Metal Crafts (2 Items)

Dolls and Kokeshi (2 Items)

Other Crafts (8 Items)

By exploring and experiencing these traditional crafts, you can truly appreciate the depth and richness of Japanese culture. This is a rare opportunity to learn from the best and create something uniquely Japanese.

Our Experiential Tours Offer Two Types of Traditional Crafts

Our experiential tours offer two types of traditional crafts: ‘Edo Komon Dyeing’ and ‘Edo Woodblock Printing (Ukiyo-e).’ Each experience takes place in a workshop with an extremely long history: Tomita Sen Kogei (established in 1882) and Takahashi Kobo (Studio) (established between 1855 and 1860). Both provide the exceptionally rare opportunity to receive direct guidance from a master of traditional craft. These traditional craft experiences will surely become lifelong memories. Don’t miss out!