Temple Tile Making Experience | Gado Inc. | Unique Cultural Experiences in Nara

"Taiken"
That is the Japanese word that translates to 'Hands-on experience' and it has become a leading buzzword for tourism in Japan over the past several years. A great way to get a deeper understanding of the culture is to dive head-first into a cultural activity and make some great memories along the way. It is fair to say that these 'experiences' started with kimono rental and although that remains as popular as ever, the industry to expanded to include some truly unique offerings that in all likelihood will become the highlight of your trip.
According to the "Nihon Shoki," roof tiles were introduced to Japan 1,400 years ago. Several roof tile experts came from Baekje (modern day Korea) to impart their knowledge and helped complete the construction of Asuka-dera Temple, the first temple in Japan to have a tiled roof. The beginning of Japan's unique tile culture was heralded by the completion of Horyu-ji Temple in 607 using domestically produced tiles by local tile makers.
By the early Edo period (1603-1868) the use of roof tiles became more commonplace at the best of the Tokugawa shogunate for their fire prevention properties. It was during this time that Gado was established, and they have been manufacturing tiles in this area ever since, passing on traditional techniques while also developing tiles for the new era.
Onigawara are traditional Japanese roof ornamentations depicting Oni (a type of ogre) or the Karajishi (lion)-in fired clay. These figures are not merely decorative; they are believed to ward off evil spirits, safeguarding the structures they adorn, be it a house, temple, or shrine.
The creation of these unique tiles is entrusted to a master craftsman known as an Oni-shi, a title that few bear in contemporary times.
The art of crafting Onigawara is as unique as the tiles themselves. There are no blueprints or templates. Each tile springs from the imagination of the Oni-shi, making every Onigawara distinctly unique. Historically, during the Nara period, roof tiles featured a variety of motifs. However, as time progressed, the designs evolved to predominantly feature the more ominous ogre-like figures.
Gado Inc. have been manufacturing tiles in this area since the1650s, passing on traditional techniques while also developing tiles for the new era.
The workshop is short, simple and fun. You have the choice of making your own mini Onigawara roof tile from either Todai-ji, Horyu-ji, or Yakushi-ji Temples. The process is quite straightforward. First you need to prepare the clay before pressing it firmly into the mold. This requires a little strength and patience but it is essential to knead the clay into every nook and cranny to eliminate any air bubbles.
Once that is complete, you can customize the backside to your taste then wait for the final product to be delivered to your door. The workshop lasts about 1 hour and is available for individuals and large groups.
For more information on cultural experiences in Nara
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[@atsukotakeuchi3144]

👏👏👏I was surprised at how detailed and beautiful it was !

[@NARAVisitorCenterInn]

The final product is very cool. You end up with a genuine mini version of a temple tile.

[@cloudyarchives]

hello~ does this require a reservation? If so, how would I do make one? Thank you 💞

[@NARAVisitorCenterInn]

@@cloudyarchives For more information on cultural experiences in Nara
www.sarusawa-nara.com/post/unique-cultural-experiences-in-nara
Our staff will gladly assist you in making a reservation. Just send them an email.