About Kazariya Ryo

The Craftsmanship of Kazariya Ryo

“An exceptional piece to take pride in, even in your daily life.”

In a quiet workshop nestled within a 120-year-old traditional Kyoto Machiya near the Imperial Palace, the rhythmic sounds of hammers, saws, and files echo through the air. Here, the metalworking techniques passed down since the Edo period merge with modern sensibilities. Each piece is meticulously brought to life by the hands of our artisans, giving new form to ancient traditions.

Our parent studio, Chikueido, has been a master of Kazari (ornamental metalwork) since the Edo period. In 2004, Kazariya Ryo was established with a simple desire: to use those time-honored skills to bring the beauty of silver closer to people’s everyday lives.

The name “Ryo” (鐐) is derived from Nanryo, a term for the finest quality silver. Working primarily with pure silver, we pour our hearts into creating pieces that add a touch of quiet elegance and richness to your daily routine.

Items that bring a smile to your face, instill a sense of confidence when held, and naturally lift your spirit when worn. The simple joy of choosing a gift while holding a loved one in your heart...

Our goal is to create pieces that resonate quietly within the soul and become cherished treasures. This is the very essence of our craftsmanship.

We hope you find a piece that speaks to you, one that becomes yours and yours alone.

Artisan Techniques

Here are some of the traditional metalworking techniques, passed down through generations, that form the foundation of Kazariya Ryo’s craftsmanship.

Workshop Visit

Tucked away in a traditional Machiya townhouse in Nakagyo, Kyoto, the Kazariya Ryo workshop is a place where time slows down. We invite you to witness the daily life of our artisans, where the rhythmic sounds of hammers and saws echo through the air.

During the tour, you can observe our craftsmen at work and see the specialized tools that have been passed down through generations. Come and experience the serene atmosphere where each piece is born from fire and hand.

If you would like to visit, please apply using the form below.

Book Your Workshop Tour Here

Chokin: Metal Engraving Workshop

Do you think of metal as something cold and unyielding?

In this workshop, you will gradually get to know the material through traditional Chokin (metal engraving) techniques, as you craft a one-of-a-kind piece of your own.

Beginners are more than welcome. We will guide you every step of the way until your creation is complete.

Copper Plate Engraving Workshop (Framed Art)

What You’ll Do: > Using traditional tagane (chisels) and kanazuchi (hammers), you will tap intricate patterns into a copper plate. To finish your one-of-a-kind artwork, you can apply gold or silver leaf for a touch of elegance before placing it in a frame.

  • Duration: Approx. 2 hours
  • Fee: 3,000 JPY (Includes materials and tax)
  • Age: Elementary school students and above
  • Group Size: 1 to 10 people
  • Booking: Please reserve at least one week in advance.

Important Notes: > * Young children may work together with a guardian to create a single piece.

  • If you wish to use your own original design, please bring a sketch approximately 8 x 12 cm in size.
Book Your Experience Here

Pure Silver Netsuke & Bookmark Workshop

What You’ll Do:
Starting with a 2.5 x 2.5 cm plate of pure silver, you will saw out your desired shape using a jeweler’s saw and finish it using traditional tools like files, scrapers, and burnishers. You can also personalize your piece by stamping it with English letters or numbers.

Choice of Item:
Select your preferred finish: Netsuke (traditional kimono charm), Bookmark, or Pendant.

  • Duration: Approx. 3 hours
  • Fee: 5,500 JPY (Includes materials and tax)
  • Age: Junior high school students and above
  • Capacity: 1 to 8 people
  • Booking: Please reserve at least one week in advance.

Note:

  • You are welcome to bring your own design, provided it fits within the 2.5 x 2.5 cm area.
Book Your Experience Here

Pure Silver Pendant Workshop

What You’ll Do:
You will use a jeweler’s saw to cut out a small flower motif from pure silver, then combine it with delicate floral elements to create a beautiful, finished pendant.

  • Duration: Approx. 2 hours
  • Fee: 9,000 JPY (Includes materials and tax)
  • Age: Junior high school students and above
  • Capacity: 1 to 8 people
  • Booking: Please reserve at least one week in advance.
Book Your Experience Here
Important Notes (General)
  • Available Hours: Weekdays, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Reservations: If the booking deadline has passed, please contact us by phone.
  • Punctuality: Please arrive at your scheduled reservation time.
  • Safety: For safety reasons, children must be accompanied by a guardian.
  • Accompanying Guests: Non-participants in your group are welcome to wait with you in the workshop.

Custom Orders

We create a special, one-of-a-kind piece just for you.

Whether it is a gift for a loved one or a well-deserved treat for yourself—it is perfectly fine if you only have a vague idea, such as "I love this motif" or "I want something with this kind of atmosphere."

From pendant tops and netsuke to hairpins (kanzashi) and bookmarks, we handcraft a wide variety of items to bring your vision to life.

Discover Custom Orders

Company Profile

Company Name

Chikueido Co., Ltd.

Representative

Yoshinaga Nakamura

Address

621 Tachibana-cho, Oshikoji-dori Fuyacho-nishi-iru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-0944, Japan

Customer Support Hours

TEL: 075-231-3658
Email: mail@ryo-kazariya.com

Retail Store Hours

  • Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Online Shop Support Hours

  • Weekdays: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Note: Shipping and email support are available on weekdays only.