Lets Make a Zabuton Try Cotton Stuffing with Futon Craftsman
Description
We will guide you through the process of filling cotton in your zabuton (Japanese floor cushion). This is a uniquely Japanese method of stuffing cotton into the square fabric. Our futon craftsman will carefully show and teach you that century-old traditional secret on a tatami mat. If there is more time, we will teach you not only how to stuff the cotton, but also how to stitch the fabric together and attach tassels. You can take your finished zabuton home in a classic kimono style bag made from leftover futon fabric! You can use your zabuton on the plane on your way home. You will also see other futon craftsmen working around you, handcrafting a variety of traditional futons! These futons are made to order, not only from Japan, but from all over the world. This is a unique opportunity that only Futon Tokyo can offer you. We look forward to your participation.
Tour Options
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- You will work on tatami mats in a variety of positions. Please come in moveable pants style. Or bring your own pants.
- Masks are required to avoid inhaling cotton fibers.
- Cotton fibers will stick to your hair as well, so we recommend wearing a cap if this is a concern. Or wrap a cloth or towel around your head.
- Please be careful not to get too closer to the craftsman while they are using needles. The needle is a specialized tool for making zabuton, very thick and dangerous.
- We may publicize the workshop on our website and social networking sites. Your photos may also be featured. If you don't like it, please let us know in advance.
Reviews(7)
If you only do one class/activity on your trip to Japan, make it this one. I searched high and low for something that wasn't your typical food tour or walking tour (nothing wrong with them; I believe you could just do it yourself XD) and found this zabuton (pillow cushion - for sitting usually, but if you want to sleep on it, no one's stopping you!) making class by Futon Tokyo. It's the only class of its kind on TripAdvisor. Pros: -Amazingly kind and patient teacher and staff. Very knowledgeable and they definitely will make sure you leave with your perfect zabuton! -English speaking staff for those who cannot speak two licks of Japanese like me XD -organic cotton batting??!? So soft sitting on your pillow is like sitting on a cloud -Not difficult to make this pillow. Don't misconstrue my words. You seriously cannot make a zabuton by yourself, only with the help of the teachers. I'm 100% sure it takes a long time before anyone become even decently good at it. But for someone who's making one for the first time, with the teacher guiding you, you will feel that it is doable and fun 😁 -You get to keep it at the end of the day!! Something tangible, something YOU made from your trip in Japan. Put it in your house and admire it and use it bc YOU made it! 🙌 Cons: -None at all!! Take the class already!! If I ever come back to Japan, I will take this class again and bring my family along so everyone will have a zabuton at home and not be jealous 😄
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review. We're truly happy to hear that you enjoyed our workshop! You're right—there really isn't another workshop quite like this one. Thank you for finding us among so many options out there! How have you been enjoying the zabuton you made since then? If you come back to Tokyo, please bring your family or friends along next time—we’d love to welcome you again!!(^^)!
Had a great time making the zabuton. The staff were friendly and supportive. I highly recommend anyone who is interested.
Dear Brent, Thank you so much for joining our zabuton workshop. We truly enjoyed spending time with you! Please come visit us again next time you're in Tokyo!
I liked picking my fabrics. They were very friendly and patient with the instructions. Makes a very nice souvenir. Unique experience.
Thank you for visiting the other day. We are glad you enjoyed your visit us :> How is the comfort of your hand made zabuton cushion? We hope it will be a wonderful memory of your Japan!
Enjoyable experience making a zabuton. Recommend for a way of learning about Japanese traditional crafts and also having something to take home. Reasonable price.
Thank you very much for spending your precious time with us in Japan. I would love to know more about traditional handcrafts in your country. Please come visit us again!
I had a great time there with the friendly staff (including the owner) who accommodated me. I ordered a futon while i was there and the staff made my futon on the spot, right before my eyes! I am amazed by the dedication and the effort the staff put in to ensure each handmade piece is durable, of high quality and comfortable. I was so tempted to buy more stuffs from them, haha For ladies, please wear pants so that it will be more comfortable during the zabuton session
Thank you for visiting the other day. How is the comfort of your futon? And thanks for the suggestion about the pants. Hope to have you back again! Sleep well and have a healthy life!
This was such an amazing experience where we got to spend 1-on-1 time with master craftsmen. We learned how this company is one of few futon makers that still prepares their own cotton. The friendly staff walked us through each step of the way as we made our own zabutons, which we brought home as a unique souvenir and daily reminder of our trip to Japan. Highly recommend booking time with such a wonderful company and their craftsmen when you're in Tokyo.
Thank you very much for your review message! It was our pleasure to experience this workshop with both of you, indeed. It was such a short limited time but you worked so hard and we were also happy to be able to share the Japanese culture with you. We are looking forward to your next visit for the second zabuton, you could be the master then!
This is a fantastic experience for anyone interested in textiles or to better understand the time and effort it takes to make Japanese products so excellent. My sensei was incredibly skilled and the small staff is very welcoming & generous. Understanding Japanese is not necessary as there are translators who are fluent in English if you need help. In the end you walk away with new skills and a beautiful zabuton for a small price. Thank you everyone at Futon Tokyo! Hope to see you again soon!
Hello Jane san! Thank you very much for taking part in the workshop despite the hot whether. We were very inspired by your serious approach to zabuton making. Although it was only for 2 hours, it was a pleasure to work with you in the traditional Japanese zabuton making technique. We are sure that your zabuton will remind you of your wonderful memories of Tokyo. We look forward to seeing you again!
