Wow, what an amazing time I had in Japan. I learnt and discovered sooo much, and can't wait to share it all with you. :) There is just too much to share so in the meantime here is a brief recap.

I spent most of my time in Kyoto which is the craft/art centre of Japan, where I studied and learnt more on Traditional Kintsugi which uses natural materials like Urushi which is the sap from the Urushi tree, and also using 22-24kt gold. I'm excited that I will be offering advanced classes that will be announced shortly.

I also learnt a lot about Japanese Incense which some of Kyoto's incense companies have been making since 1663. I'm excited to share with you all that I will be holding workshops where you will learn all about the history and the different forms. (I never knew there was so much to know about incense, but it was very interesting discovering this new old world) In this new workshop you will get to make your own incense cones with different Japanese flavours that I have brought back with me. I have very limited space for this as Japan is all about quality and the craftsmanship so I can only get hold of small quantities at a time. Keep an eye on my Workshop Collection for the release of these workshops.

Highlights: 

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) Kyoto, Japan
This is such a beautiful must see Temple, very Zen and spectacular.

Staying out in the Country learning Kintsugi on a farm - I really enjoyed my time there, very peaceful and quiet staying in a traditional Japanese house (sleeping on tatami mats on the floor etc) was a really lovely experience and also going blueberry picking with the local kids one afternoon - I must add also that it was on average 35 degrees everyday, so very very warm. (but luckily I don't mind the heat)  Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto, Japan - A must place to visit as it has so many wonderful cute shops you can explore as you are walking up to the Temple. 

Fushimi Inari Taisha (Shinto Shrine) with the famous orange and black torii gates and foxes.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto Japan. I went there several times, if you have the time there is a lot more to see and discover as you can explore a little further and you will stumble across a nice river where you can take a boat ride and also just sit and relax by the waters edge. Plus walking through the magical Bamboo Grove.

 Naoshima Art Island, Kagawa, Japan this takes about 3 hours from Kyoto to get to, but I really enjoyed Naoshima, we stayed one night on the island and the best way to get around is by hiring a bike, to visit all the different galleries plus viewing the large sculptures that sit alongside the waters edge. My favourite part was actually going into the Naoshima Bath House "I♥湯" that is on the Island which has been designed by Japanese artist - Shinro Ohtake, very very cool place I absolutely loved it.

I just love Japan so much and can't recommend it enough! It's a great place to travel, easy to get around, very safe and just amazing. You all must go!!