Design Your Own Gold Leaf Creation

Experience one of Kanazawa's best-known crafts hands-on

Create a precious memento when you take part in a gilding workshop in the heart of Kanazawa, a city rich in history and cultural heritage. Recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, Kanazawa draws countless visitors looking to explore its many renowned artisanal traditions influenced by samurai culture. Gilding is particularly significant, and for good reason—the city accounts for 99% of Japan's gold leaf production, and is the source of the gold leaf used to gild Kyoto's magnificent Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
Explore this famous Kanazawa craft first-hand and in detail at Gold Leaf Sakuda, where an artisan will guide you through the gilding process in a friendly, intuitive manner. You’ll even have the opportunity to see how the gold leaf itself is made. From chopsticks and plates to compact mirrors, choose your favorite item and personalize it with a unique design applied in gold. With this hands-on experience, even first-timers can feel confident in giving this timeless craft a go.

Be sure to check out the store's mini-museum, with exhibits of gilded folding screens. Why not take a photo to remember in front of one of these glittering masterpieces? You'll also find an astounding range of aureate goods—from quintessential traditional crafts, accessories and tableware to gold-flecked cosmetics and glimmering edible sweets. Even the bathrooms are resplendent, covered in gold leaf and platinum foil! Located near the charming wooden geisha houses of the Higashi Chaya District, Gold Leaf Sakuda Main Store puts tradition and creativity on full display.
Gold Leaf Sakuda is easily accessible by bus from JR Kanazawa Station, just a 5-minute walk from the Hashiba-cho or Higashiyama bus stops.

Gold Leaf Sakuda Main Store