Experience the Art of ‘Chasen’ with the Tanimura Family in Nara Prefecture
The Tanimura family has upheld the art of ‘chasen’ (tea whisk) making for over 500 years. Tango Tanimura is the 20th-generation head of the family and one of the last remaining artisans of this traditional bamboo craft. At his historic workshop in Ikoma, you can now witness this living tradition firsthand.
Observe the intricate process as Tanimura-san crafts whisks for Japan’s top tea schools, and try your hand at the ‘itokake’ threading process yourself. This experience includes a tea ceremony and informal talk in the family’s tea room, accompanied by sweets from a local wagashi shop.
Choosing Bamboo: The Master's Way
Though around 70% of tea whisks in Japan are imported today, Tanimura-san emphasizes that authentic Japanese-made chasen offer unmatched quality and refinement. Selecting the perfect bamboo – flexible yet durable – is essential. He carefully chooses each piece himself, assessing weight, shape, and grain texture, before gently seasoning it. “Using a well-made whisk naturally enhances the flavor of the tea,” Tanimura-san explains. Experiencing tea made with his handcrafted chasen, you’ll immediately understand the subtle yet significant difference.
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A Meditation in Craftsmanship: The Aji-Kezuri Technique
The highlight of your visit is the “aji-kezuri” shaving technique, where the bamboo splines are delicately thinned from base to tip with precision and rhythmic calm. Watching Tanimura-san guide his blade along each bamboo strand is a quiet meditation in his craft. This meticulous process is fundamental, as thinner, evenly shaped splines directly influence the smoothness of matcha whisking, transforming each bowl of tea into a complete sensory experience.
Discover Japan like a Local, Away from the Crowds.
Book Now As Part of a Bespoke Journey
This intimate, hands-on session can be booked via the Views from Japan Journeys, and is a rare chance to connect with a master and bring home a piece of Japanese craft heritage.
For direct bookings, please visit the Wabunka website to arrange your visit. Limited spaces only, book now to secure your space!
Created in partnership with Wabunka Japan.
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