Oota Tatamiten

    • Business Hour9:00～18:00
    HolidaysSundays & Holidays
    HPhttps://ootatami.jp/

    About this atelier

    Oota Tatamiten is a long-established company founded in 1939 and has a store in Nishijin, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City. Kyoto used to be a center of politics and culture, and many Buddhist temples and shrines are located in the city, so advanced techniques have been handed down in Tatami mat production. While machine manufacturing is advancing nationwide, our store continues to make tatami mats by hand using traditional techniques. The third-generation owner, Shigeki Ota, is highly regarded for his skills and ambition, holding such titles as “Certified Kyoto Craftsman*¹” and “Kyoto Prefecture Master Craftsman of Tomorrow*²”. *¹Kyomono Certified Craftsman: A title awarded to young craftsmen whose work is sought by young artisans who will lead the traditional industries of the future, and who are particularly skilled and ambitious. *² Kyoto Master Craftsman of Tomorrow: A title awarded to craftspeople who will support the future industrial base, with the aim of encouraging further improvement of their skills.

    Workshop Tours

    Guide Recommendations

    This was one of the highlights of my trip to Japan! Learning about the traditional tatami-making process and then making my own mini tatami with the help of a professional craftsman was so special. The scent of the material was calming, and the finished piece makes for a great souvenir. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an authentic cultural experience.

    The craftsman was very kind and patient, and we got to learn a lot about the history and materials of tatami. Choosing from so many colors and patterns was so fun, and the mini tatami we made now holds our favorite figurines at home. A perfect hands-on experience of Japanese culture!

    From the workshop tour to the actual making of the mini tatami, everything was very hands-on and thoughtful. We chose different colors and patterns and now use the finished tatami pieces as stylish trays for our keys and accessories. A beautiful and memorable activity!

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