Published on Nov, 2024

As someone interested in unique travel experiences and learning about traditional culture, my friend and I decided to go for this Otsu-e workshop and it did not disappoint. In fact we got more than we had expected as aside from the art experience, our lovely guide, Misato-san took us for an stroll from Otsu station to her family's studio and told us about the history of the town and several traditional businesses along the way. We were able to try some traditional snacks and tea. At the workshop, she also gave a short presentation of Otsu-e through history. I highly recommend this experience if you like Japanese culture even if you can't draw well like me!

Published on Sep, 2024

It was my first visit to Ohtsu city, the capital of Shiga prefecture and the main port of Lake Biwa the largest freshwater lake in Japan.  The city was also the last post town on the Tokaido trail connecting Tokyo and Kyoto in Edo period.  I learned a lot more about the facts and history of the city from the owner of Ichiewado Seminar House and a good friend of mine. After a nice catch up, I painted my own bell at her workshop.  The design is a guardian demon from Ohtsu-e, a local folk painting from Edo period. I chose my colors and started painting. Not quite confident at first, but as I went on painting I was immersed in it having lots of fun. Painting my own Ohtsu-e with a long history made me imagine the time when travelers walked the trail and got rest and food and souvenirs on their way. Now my little guardian demon bell is on duty at the entrance of our house protecting it from any evil spirits that try to come in!

Published on Aug, 2024

Takahashi-san is such a caring person. She was making sure that I arrived safely due to the typhoon. I could tell she was very nice person from her emails but once I got to know her, she was easy to talk to and gave me lots of compliments about my painting. It was a fun and educational experience even for a native Japanese. I didn’t know some historical background though I quite enjoyed learning it. Painting on the Oni bell made me calm and relaxed.

Published on Apr, 2024

What a memorable experience we had during Ichie Wado's offering. The mixture of culture and art with hands on traditional paintings were rare findings. The local guide and the founder, Ms. Misato has a passion and deep knowledge to share with us and answer questions about history. If you are looking for educational yet interesting workshop, I highly recommend you give a try. Access is very easy and fast from Kyoto central station. Only 10 min. Suggest to book in advance.

Published on Oct, 2023

I visited Otsu area, near Kyoto, with a friend of mine and her family from the USA. Misato's English presentation on the history of Otsu-e art was fascinating and easy to understand. Also, her father was a well-known Otsu-e artist, who used to live in this Seminar House. Misato's love of, and passion for, the local folk art and culture is beautifully communicated, making the whole experience, in this beautiful traditional old Japanese home, something very special.