About this tour
Paint and decorate your own daruma doll at this Shinjuku workshop, choosing from traditional washi paper designs to create a bespoke keepsake. Located minutes from Shinjuku Gyoen, KUROMAMEDO offers a hands-on introduction to Japanese folk crafts in a welcoming space designed for international visitors. The 90-minute session includes green tea, a seasonal snack, and a small gift to take home.
Highlights
- Design a personalised daruma doll from scratch
- Select from authentic washi paper patterns
- Seasonal Japanese green tea and snacks included
- Steps from Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
- Browse ready-made crafts in the on-site shop
- Alternative activities: mizuhiki charms, maiko bookmarks
- Wheelchair accessible, pram-friendly space
What to expect
You'll arrive at a compact studio tucked away in Shinjuku's quieter streets. After a brief introduction to daruma symbolism, you'll select your washi paper and begin painting and decorating your doll under gentle guidance. The staff speak English and let you work at your own pace—expect to finish within the hour, leaving time to enjoy green tea and nibble on Japanese sweets whilst your creation dries. If you'd prefer, you can opt for crafting mizuhiki cord charms or bookmarks instead. The whole vibe is relaxed; no artistic experience needed.
Good to know
Arrive 10 minutes early. Sessions run regularly throughout the day. The space is compact but accessible; lifts available. You can purchase finished pieces from the shop if you'd rather skip the making. Photos of your work are encouraged for social media.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original Global Hobo summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.