Real stories from curious travelers who went beyond the tourist trail — into Japan's craft towns, studios, and artisan communities.
Whether you are making a pit-stop in one of our towns, or seeking a longer residency stay, we can assist with your travel planning. Each traveler arrives with their own curiosity — and leaves with a connection to Japan that no guidebook can provide.
These are their stories.
"Crossing cultures as artists through open dialogue and mutual respect — our commitment to craft makes us more alike than different."
Ceramist & Art Educator · Specialty: Hand-build tea bowls, soda firing
"Crossing cultures as artists through open dialogue and mutual respect, I find that our commitment and dedication to our craft make us more alike than different."
Read Barbara's story →
Ceramic Artist · Porcelain workshop specialist
An Australian ceramist seeking the source of Japanese porcelain tradition — and finding it in a rural studio far off any tourist route.
Read Brenton's story →
Designer & Creative Director
A designer from Hong Kong exploring how traditional Japanese craft informs contemporary creative practice — and why proximity to artisans changes everything.
Read Samson's story →
Artist & Cultural Explorer
Arriving as a curious traveler and leaving as a genuine advocate — Kelly's experience shows what happens when you slow down and let a place reveal itself.
Read Kelly's story →
Japanese-born traveler rediscovering her own country
Sometimes it takes the eyes of an outsider to see your own culture clearly. Ayako returns to Japan's rural towns and finds a heritage she never knew was disappearing.
Read Ayako's story →More stories, field notes, and craft dispatches from rural Japan in the Taketombo Journal.
Visit the Journal ↗ All stories on taketombo.jp ↗Explore our current programs and join the next group of curious travelers in rural Japan.
Explore Programs Get in Touch