Workshops
Make it your own
MONO JAPAN 2024 will feature workshops led by MONO JAPAN-certified masters from Japan and the Netherlands, sharing their knowledge and insights with attendees.
To attend the workshops, please purchase your tickets from the [Buy Ticket] buttons below. Workshop tickets are not available for purchase at the door. Additionally, a separate entrance ticket is required.
All workshops have limited availability, so secure your booking early!
Location: Nieuwe Instituut (with some exceptions*)
*Please note: The TOGIYA - Knife Sharpening Workshop by Mujun and Flower Vase Arrangement workshop by Yoko Negi will be held at Supernova Hotel.List of workshops
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TOGIYA - Knife Sharpening Workshop
Date September 13th-15th, 2024 (Fri-Sun)
Time 11:00-18:00 (one session every hour; the last two sessions between 16:00 and 18:00 are only available on Sat & Sun)
Location Supernova Hotel - room 5 / Fab Four
Duration Approx. 60 min.
Fee €55
Included Knife sharpening (please bring your own knife)
Max. participants 1 participant per session*Please bring a knife that needs to be sharpened.
About this workshop
This workshop, led by a young blacksmith from Japan, teaches the art of knife sharpening. Participants will receive one-on-one training on how to sandwich the whetstone and properly and safely sharpen blades.After the workshop, knives will naturally become extremely sharp, so attendees are reminded to handle them with care when returning home.
Consultation on all types of cutlery will be available. If you have any questions about knife care, please bring your favourite knife with you. High-quality whetstones will also be available for purchase.
We look forward to exploring the world of knives with you.
About MUJUN
Mujun is a design and craft collective based in rural Japan, where traditional craft-making still exists. The team of designers and young artisans specialises in knife making.
They began their design practice in 2008, collaborating with skilled artisans across various fields. Their clients include veteran artisans who have honed their skills over many years. As a design company, MUJUN seeks to modernise the beauty of these traditional crafts for a global audience. They launched their global distribution business in 2013, exporting local products crafted by the same artisans they have worked with since the very beginning.
In 2016, MUJUN was introduced as an original brand in Amsterdam. By 2018, they initiated the Mujun Workshop project, building a small ironsmith workshop next to their design office. As of June 2023, MUJUN hosts four young apprentices-in-residence who aspire to become skilled artisans.
In 2020, MUJUN acquired 200,000 square metres (nearly 50 acres) of land in Shimane Prefecture as part of their larger vision to build a village of craftsmanship called the “Mujun Planet.”
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Sencha Tea ceremony
Date September 14th, 2024 (Sat)
Time 11:30-13:30
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Room 1
Duration 120 min.
Fee €65
Included Green Sencha tea and a Japanese delicacy
Max. participants 17 participants
Ticket Sales Ends on September 12th, 23:59About this workshop
The Hatsutemaesanpo is an o-temae where participants learn to prepare a delicious cup of tea suitable for everyday life, along with beautiful gestures and the spirit of hospitality from the Ōbaku Baisa-Ryū school of tea ceremony. The tea ceremony is conducted in the Ryurei-shiki (chair seating) style, accommodating those who prefer not to sit on the floor.
Discover how to treat your esteemed guests, hard-working family, friends, and yourself in a wonderful way. The workshop takes place in the tea room of the tea masters, where you will learn the precise measurements of tea leaves and water temperature to brew a delicious cup of tea at home.
Completion of three coursesーgyokuro-temae in spring and autumn (April, May, September, and October), Reisen-temae in summer (June-July), and Susuricha-temae in winter (November-March)ーqualifies participants for a Chashi (license for the Ōbaku Baisa-Ryū tea ceremony school). Obtaining the certificate is optional and involves an additional fee.
About Haruka Matsuo
Haruka Matsuo, known by her tea name 'Souran', is a tea master of Ōbaku Baisa-Ryū and a disciple of Souden Nakai. She will perform the Ōbaku Baisa-Ryū tea ceremony, originating from Manpukuji Temple on Mt Obaku in Uji, Kyoto. This school of sencha tea ceremony continues the legacy of tea master Baisa Ou's exquisite tea traditions.
Through the practice of traditional Japanese tea ceremony (Ōbaku Baisa-Ryū), Haruka seeks to discover and acknowledge aesthetic and sacred moments in daily life that elevate our spirits. She follows ancient techniques to craft her own tableware, using clay from the Ijssel River in the Netherlands for teapots and ash from conifer park trees for glazing. Her techniques for making teapots and wooden moulds were passed down by an esteemed Japanese ceramics master.
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WABI SABI Cups - Embrace the Art of Imperfection
Date September 14th, 2024 (Sat)
Time 11:30-13:30
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Studio 1
Duration 120 min.
Fee €75
Included Two handmade cups
Max. participants 15 participantsAbout this workshop
Immerse yourself in the essence of Wabi-Sabi through an exploration of Japanese philosophy that celebrates imperfection and simplicity. This workshop teaches participants to embrace the beauty of irregularities and asymmetry in their creations, reflecting the natural and authentic charm inherent in Wabi-Sabi artistry.
Participants can discover the meditative and tactile nature of handcrafting ceramics by engaging with the serene principles of Wabi-Sabi. The workshop offers the opportunity to craft two cups that embody the soulful essence of Wabi-Sabi, utilising distinctive techniquesーcoil building and pinching. It invites participants to unleash their creativity, experiment with different textures, and explore the subtleties of each technique. Step-by-step guidance will be provided to help craft functional and aesthetic ceramic pieces.
About The Uma Life
The Uma Life offers immersive experiences and workshops focused on self-discovery, creativity, and connecting with Eastern philosophies and traditions.
Their hands-on ceramic workshops help participants explore ancient Japanese pottery techniques and philosophies.
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Daifuku Mochi Making
Date September 14th & 15th, 2024 (Sat & Sun)
Time 14:00-16:00
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Studio 2
Duration 120 min.
Fee €60
Included Four types of mochi
Max. participants 15 participants
Ticket sales Ends 5 days before the workshopAbout this workshop
Dive into a hands-on workshop to learn the art of making Daifuku Mochi. This beginner-friendly session is the perfect way to enjoy a tasty introduction to Daifuku Mochi while exploring Japanese culture and tradition. The workshop begins with savouring homemade Mochi.
After a step-by-step demonstration, you'll make four unique Mochis to take home!
About Mochi House AN.
Mochi House AN, founded by Misato and Izumi, two friends from Japan, celebrates their love for Japan's rich and colourful culture. It offers a cosy space dedicated to sharing something special from their home: Daifuku Mochi.
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KURINUKI - Carving Beauty from within
Date September 14th, 2024 (Sat)
Time 14:00-16:00
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Studio 1
Duration 120 min.
Fee €75
Included Two handcarved cups
Max. participants 15 participantsAbout this workshop
Explore the ancient Japanese art of kurinukiーa meditative and therapeutic ceramic technique involving carving and hollowing out a solid block of clay to create unique, one-of-a-kind vessels.
Guided by experienced instructors, this hands-on workshop provides step-by-step guidance through the traditional kurinuki process, covering shaping, carving, and sculpting the clay piece. Unlike other pottery methods, kurinuki encourages an intuitive and spontaneous approach, fostering personal expression and artistic freedom.
Participants can experience the mindful and calming nature of this art form by working with their hands, connecting with the tactile qualities of the clay. This process encourages experimentation with different forms, surface textures, and designs, allowing for the creation of pieces that reflect their individual style.
Whether new to pottery or experienced in the arts, this workshop offers a supportive and collaborative environment to explore creativity.
About The Uma Life
The Uma Life offers immersive experiences and workshops focused on self-discovery, creativity, and connecting with Eastern philosophies and traditions.
Their hands-on ceramic workshops help participants explore ancient Japanese pottery techniques and philosophies.
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Japanese Brush Painting and philosophy
Date September 14th, 2024 (Sat)
Time 14:00-16:00
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Room 1
Duration 120 min.
Fee €67,50
Included Ink and rice paper and loaner brushpensels - You will take home your own painted Zen circle afterwards
Max. participants 20 participants
Ticket sales Ends on September 13th (Friday) at 23:59About this workshop
Sumi-e, the Japanese art of brush painting with black ink on rice paper, originates from Zen Buddhism and calligraphy. The meditative nature of this practice encourages a focus on the journey or the process rather than the final result.
No prior experience is needed, as Sumi-e is accessible to everyone. As Mieke Bouwens says, if you know how to breathe, you can practice the spirited art of Sumi-e. In this workshop, Mieke will guide participants through the basics and techniques, assisting them in creating their own unique artwork. Participants will soon discover the surprising insights Sumi-e offers. Circles, bamboo, reeds, birds, or clouds will slowly appear on paper, revealing themselves as drying self-portraits, showcasing the power of Sumi-e in quietly revealing what is mostly hidden.
About Opleidingsbureau Mieke Bouwens
Mieke Bouwens runs a school that trains actors and artists in Friesland. Her passion for Japanese brush painting has stayed with her throughout her journey, spanning one year at the design academy, four years of model painting classes, four years of Asian ink painting classes, and a master class at the Art Academy Friesland. After living in Asia for a year and immersing herself in oriental art and philosophy, Mieke became a dedicated practitioner of Sumi-e.
Opleidingsbureau Mieke Bouwens
Website l Website | Instagram | Facebook -
Flower Vase Arrangement
Date September 14th, 2024 (Sat)*
Time from 11:30 (Tickets available) | from 15:00 (Sold out)
Location Supernova Hotel - Library
Duration Approx. 90-120 min.
Fee €115
Included Flowers, materials and KINTO Aqua culture vase
Max. participants 6 participants*Once the first session detailed above is fully booked, additional sessions will be scheduled on Friday and Saturday.
About this workshop
Discover the art of vase arrangement in this workshop, using fresh seasonal flowers and an Aqua Culture Vase from KINTO, known for their exquisite Japanese ceramic and glassware. Ideal for growing flower bulbs in early spring, the Aqua Culture Vase can also be used year-round as a regular flower vase.
Designed for both beginners and experienced individuals, this session will guide you in crafting a stunning flower bouquet, which you can take home afterwards.
Tickets for this workshop are available on Yoko Negi's website.
About Yoko Negi
Yoko Negi is a Japanese floral stylist currently based in Rotterdam, with many years of experience in Paris. She crafts beautiful and unique flower decorations for shops, showrooms, editorials, and weddings. Yoko also regularly organises inspiring flower workshops in Paris, Tokyo, and Rotterdam. Her clientele extends worldwide and includes renowned French legacy brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, Maison Trudon, Dries van Noten, and more.
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SHIBUI - simplicity meets timeless elegance
Date September 15th, 2024 (Sun)
Time 11:30-13:30
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Studio 1
Duration 120 min.
Fee €75
Included A handmade ramen bowl & ramen spoon
Max. participants 15 participantsAbout this workshop
SHIBUI, a cornerstone of Japanese aesthetics, celebrates the beauty found in simplicity, restraint, and harmony with nature. It cherishes the unadorned, honours imperfections, and finds tranquillity in the understated. In a world often filled with noise and excess, SHIBUI reminds us to take a moment, appreciate life's simple pleasures, and find beauty in the everyday.
This serene SHIBUI Ramen Bowl Workshop offers participants the opportunity to craft their own bowls from clay, embracing simplicity and imperfection as they shape their creations while discovering the beauty of SHIBUI aesthetics along the way.
Participants will leave with not only a handmade ramen bowl but also a deeper appreciation for the art of ceramics and the essence of SHIBUI aesthetics. Join the workshop to discover the joy of creating something truly special with your own two hands.
About The Uma Life
The Uma Life offers immersive experiences and workshops focused on self-discovery, creativity, and connecting with Eastern philosophies and traditions.
Their hands-on ceramic workshops help participants explore ancient Japanese pottery techniques and philosophies.
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Cija KOKEDAMA / Moss Ball
Date September 15th, 2024 (Sun)
Time 11:30-12:00 | 12:15-12:45 | 13:00-13:30
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Studio 2
Duration 30 min.
Fee €25
Included Three moss balls
Max. participants 15 participants
Ticket sales Ends on September 10th (Tue) at 23:59About this workshop
The term "Kokedama" translates literally to "moss ball". In Japanese settings, Kokedama are not planted in pots but can be displayed in various containers, making them suitable for both Japanese and Western aestheticsーperfect on plates or suspended from above.
Kokedama also offer a calming presence in gardens and are surprisingly simple to craft. Join this workshop to craft three of your own unique moss balls.
About Cija
Cija was established in Japan in 2000 by Jungsoon Suh, a dedicated specialist in flower and table culture. After studying flowers and table coordination in Kobe and Tokyo, Jungsoon travelled to the UK to study flower design, cooking, and etiquette at Constance Spry, a traditional flower school in England.After founding Cija, she offered flower & table entertainment classes and taught at Osaka City Fureai Minatokan. Her work extended to arranging flowers at restaurants, handling wedding flower arrangements, and showcasing Christmas arrangements on an NHK evening live program at Osaka Nanko's annual pottery fair. Following her relocation to the Netherlands, Jungsoon registered Cija there and completed a private course at STOAS Hogeschool in 's-Hertogenbosch, obtaining a diploma and training under Kees Nagel.
She now conducts monthly lessons at home, serves as a translator for Dutch Master Florists, and guides Japanese and Korean participants in EFDA courses in the Netherlands. Jungsoon's passion lies in connecting people through flower and table culture.
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Reunion of flavours - Dashi, Shoyu, Koji
Date September 15th, 2024 (Sun)
Time 15:00 - 16:00
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Studio 1
Duration 60 min.
Fee €95
Included Three types of "21st-century dashi koji"
Max. participants 15 participants
Ticket sales Ends on September 8th (Sun) 17:00About this workshop
Japan's soy sauce was exported abroad from the 17th to the 18th century. Now, 280 years after its arrival in the Netherlands, locals have begun producing their own soy sauce. Today, not only has soy sauce become a global staple, but the culture of koji, essential for making miso and sake, is also flourishing worldwide.
This workshop invites participants to explore the history of koji while sampling a variety of fermented seasonings that blend European and Japanese fermentation traditions. Following the tasting, participants will craft three types of "21st-century dashi koji" to take home, one of which will feature shoyu from TOMASU SOY SAUCE. Discover new flavours from the blend of tradition, culture, history and innovation.
Join this workshop to experience the harmonious combination of TOMASU Soy Sauce, fresh koji crafted by Malica Ferments, and special ingredients such as yuzu, sansho, ume, kombu, and dried shiitake mushrooms, along with familiar seasonal ingredients from the Netherlands and Europe.
About Marika Groen Kawaguchi
Marika is a Kojiologist, travelling brewer, photographer, writer, and the driving force behind Malica Ferments. Originally from Japan and now based in Europe, Marika focuses on research and development of fermentation. She hosts the occasional 3-4 day "Kojiology" retreat, where participants learn about koji, miso, shoyu, doburoku sake, and natto, and leads an annual fermentation tour that includes brewery visits. In 2021, she published the artistic manual Cosy Koji as a visual collaboration with her fellow fermenters.
The year 2024 holds new mysteries for Marika.
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MINDFUL MATCHA - crafting bowls and chasen holders
Date September 15th, 2024 (Sun)
Time 16:30-18:30
Location Nieuwe Instituut - Studio 1
Duration Approx. 120 min.
Fee €75
Included A handmade matcha bowl & chasen holder
Max. participants 15 participantsAbout this workshop
The Uma Life offers an immersive ceramic handcrafting workshop, inviting participants to craft their own matcha bowl and chasen holder, delving into the rich traditions of Japanese tea culture. This hands-on experience teaches the art of shaping and sculpting clay into beautiful and functional pieces, guided by skilled artisans.
Through moulding the clay with their own hands, participants will craft a matcha bowl designed to enhance the flavours and aromas of the finely ground green tea powder. They'll also make a whisk holder, a crucial accessory that holds the delicate bamboo whisk used to prepare the frothy matcha tea.
Throughout the process, the workshop embraces the principles of Wabi-Sabi, the Japanese philosophy that celebrates the beauty of imperfection and impermanence. Each handcrafted piece will bear unique marks, reflecting the creative journey of its maker and becoming a truly one-of-a-kind treasure.
Whether a seasoned ceramist or a curious beginner, this workshop offers a chance to connect with one's senses, explore creativity, and immerse oneself in Japan's rich cultural heritage. Participants will leave the workshop not only with their handmade matcha bowl and whisk holder but also with a deeper appreciation for the art of ceramics.
About The Uma Life
The Uma Life offers immersive experiences and workshops focused on self-discovery, creativity, and connecting with Eastern philosophies and traditions.Their hands-on ceramic workshops help participants explore ancient Japanese pottery techniques and philosophies.