Kyoto Ring Making Workshop: Craft a Vintage Japanese Coin Ring

Shape a piece of Japanese history into a ring you'll wear home

This hands-on workshop in Kyoto lets you craft a wearable ring from a vintage Japanese coin decades old, using traditional metalworking techniques under personal guidance from a live instructor. Small groups mean you get attention every step; no experience needed. You choose the coin, customize the size and finish, and walk out with a one-of-a-kind piece that carries both craft and history. Engraving and premium coin upgrades are available for an additional charge.

The Experience

You'll spend an hour working with real vintage Japanese coins, each one carrying decades of history. The workshop starts with choosing your favorite coin from the standard selection—then the instructor walks you through shaping, stamping, and polishing it into a wearable ring using traditional metalworking tools. Beginners are very welcome; every step is designed to be easy to follow, and you get personal guidance throughout. The small-group setting means there's time to ask questions, take photos of the process, and understand the story behind both the coins and the craft itself.

You'll customize the size and finish to match your style—textures, polishing, and other basic finishes are all part of the experience. If you want something rarer, premium coin upgrades are available for an additional charge, and engraving can be added at checkout to make the ring even more personal. By the end, you're holding a one-of-a-kind keepsake that's far more than a souvenir: it's something you made with your own hands, from a piece of Japan's past.

The workshop sits in the heart of Kyoto, so it's easy to add to any itinerary without planning around transport. The space is wheelchair accessible, and all areas and surfaces are designed to accommodate different needs. Public transportation options are nearby if you're traveling without a car.

What’s included

• One vintage coin of your choice from the standard selection.
• use of all traditional metalworking tools and equipment.
• guided instruction from a live English-speaking instructor.
• basic finishes including textures and polishing.
• and time to customize the size and finish of your ring.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyInfant seats availablePublic transport nearbyInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Traveling Kyoto

Is this one for you?The workshop sits in central Kyoto with public transportation nearby, so it works whether you're staying across the city or traveling without a car. Small groups and personal guidance mean you'll finish with a ring that fits your hand and your style, not a generic souvenir.

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Top questions

Do I need any experience to make a ring in this workshop?

No experience is required. The workshop is designed for complete beginners, and the instructor guides you through every step of shaping, stamping, and polishing the coin into a ring. All the tools and equipment are provided.

What coins can I choose from, and can I upgrade?

A standard selection of vintage Japanese coins is included with the workshop. Premium coin upgrades—rare and collectible coins—are available for an additional charge if you want something more distinctive.

Can I add engraving to my ring?

Yes, engraving is available for an additional charge and can be added at checkout. This is a good way to personalize the ring further or prepare it as a gift.

How long does the workshop take?

The workshop runs for one hour, which covers choosing your coin, shaping and stamping it, polishing, and customizing the size and finish to your style.

Is the workshop location easy to reach without a car?

Yes. The workshop is located in the heart of Kyoto with public transportation options nearby, making it accessible whether you're staying elsewhere in the city or traveling without a vehicle.