MARUMIZU-GUMI
まるみず組
(1) Japanese Bookbinding
Level ★☆☆☆☆/ Approx. 2 hours This lesson covers the fundamentals of Japanese book binding.
(2) Flat-back Case Binding (Intermediate)
Level ★★★☆☆/ Approx. 3 hours This lesson covers basic modern bookbinding.
(3) Leather Bound Bookbinding (Advanced)
Level ★★★★☆/ Approx. 3~4.5 hours This lesson covers basic leather-bound binding.
(4a) Coptic Binding with Wooden Covers (Intermediate)
Level ★★★☆☆/ Approx. 2 hours The lesson covers an oldish technique called Coptic Sewing.
(4b) Coptic Binding with Plastic Covers (Intermediate)
Level ★★★☆☆/ Approx. 2 hours The lesson covers an oldish technique called Coptic Sewing with Plastic Covers.
(5a) Slide Box Making – Slipcase for books
Level ★★★☆☆/ Approx. 2 hours The lesson covers slide-in-style box making.
(5b-1) Clamshell Box Making (1st of 2 lessons)
Level ★★★☆☆/ Approx. 2 hours This session covers the first half of the Clamshell Box Making （Protective case for books）
(5b-2) Clamshell Box Making (2nd of 2 lessons)
Level ★★★☆☆/ Approx. 2 hours This is the second/final session of Clamshell Box Making（Protective case for books）
(5c-1) Japanese Chitsu Box Making (1st of 2 lessons)
Level ★★★★☆/ Approx. 2 hours This lesson covers the first half of the Japanese Chitsu Box Making. You need to book the second session to complete.
(5c-2) Japanese Chitsu Box Making (2nd of 2 lessons)
Level ★★★★☆/ Approx. 2 hours This lesson is the second half of the Japanese Chitsu Box Making.
Experience Traditional Japanese Bookbinding in Tokyo
A Unique Cultural Activity at Marumizu-Gumi
Looking for an authentic Japanese craft experience during your Tokyo trip? Discover the ancient art of hand-bookbinding at Marumizu-Gumi, a specialized studio where travelers can learn traditional techniques and create their own handmade Japanese book. Located in the heart of Tokyo, this hidden gem offers a memorable hands-on activity that goes beyond typical tourist experiences.
Founded by bookbinding expert Nao Inoue, Marumizu-Gumi welcomes visitors from around the world to explore this delicate Japanese craft. Whether you're a creative traveler, culture enthusiast, or simply looking for unique things to do in Tokyo, this intimate workshop experience offers something truly special to take home.
What Makes This Tokyo Bookbinding Experience Special?
At Marumizu-Gumi, you're not just watching a demonstration—you're learning directly from skilled artisans who've mastered traditional Japanese bookbinding techniques. This hands-on lesson allows you to create your own beautiful handmade book using authentic Japanese materials and tools.
The studio specializes in teaching visitors the intricate methods that have been passed down through generations. You'll work with high-quality washi paper, traditional binding threads, and specialized tools that give Japanese books their distinctive character and durability. Perfect Activity for Creative Travelers in Japan This bookbinding workshop is ideal for travelers who want to dive deeper into Japanese culture beyond the usual sightseeing. The experience suits all skill levels—no previous crafting experience necessary. You'll leave with both a unique souvenir you made yourself and newfound appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship.
The studio also offers a carefully curated selection of premium Japanese bookbinding materials and tools for purchase, perfect for continuing your craft journey back home or finding distinctive gifts.
Who teaches Marumizu Gumi Bookbinding Experience?
Authentic Craft Experience with Master Artists
Ever wondered what it's like to learn a centuries-old craft from a recognized master? When you book a Japanese bookbinding class in Tokyo, you're not just picking up a new hobby -you're connecting with a traditional art form guided by some of Japan's most talented artisans.
Who's Actually Teaching Your Bookbinding Class?
Here's where it gets exciting. Your instructor is Nao Inoue, and she's not just any bookbinding teacher. She's been recognized as one of the 125 masters in the prestigious "125 MAESTRI Rilegatori per L'infinito" competition—basically, she's at the top of her game internationally.
Nao's been perfecting this craft since 1997 when she started at Studio LIVRE. By 2000, she'd founded her own studio, Marumizu-Gumi, which has become a hub for bookbinding education and innovation in Japan. That's over two decades of hands-on experience she brings to your class.
You might also learn from other skilled artisans like Aine Uemura, who teaches across various organizations, or Yukari Yasuda, a celebrated miniature bookbinding artist. Each brings their unique perspective to this traditional Japanese craft.
What Makes This Experience Special?
How often do you get to learn directly from internationally recognized masters? These aren't mass-produced tourist workshops. You're stepping into a working studio that's been operating since 2000, where real artisans create, teach, and preserve traditional techniques.
The instructors adapt their teaching for overseas visitors, so language barriers won't hold you back from creating something beautiful with your own hands. You'll leave with more than just a handmade book—you'll have a genuine connection to Japanese craftsmanship and a story worth sharing.
You'll create a keepsake that's far more meaningful than anything you could buy in a souvenir shop.
