Discover karakuri ningyō (mechanical puppets) : Family workshop with Tamaya Shōbei IX
- 27 June 2026
- 11:00 - 12:30, 14:00 - 15:30
- The Hall, Japan House London, 101-111 Kensington High Street, London, W8 5SA
- https://www.japanhouselondon.uk/whats-on/discover-karakuri-ningyo-family-workshop-with-tamaya-shobei-ix/
- +44 (0)20 7932 7100
- info@japanhouselondon.uk
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Join us for a special family-friendly workshop introducing karakuri ningyō, Japanese mechanical puppets, featuring ninth-generation master craftsman Tamaya Shōbei IX from Aichi Prefecture.
During this workshop, you will enjoy a short talk and live demonstration exploring the history and ingenious mechanisms behind karakuri ningyō, with the opportunity to view several models up close, including Chahakobi Ningyō, a tea-serving doll, and Yumihiki Dōji, an archer doll capable of firing arrows at a target.
Alongside the demonstration, you will also take part in a hands-on activity to colour and assemble a simple karakuri henshin (transformation) model to take home.
The activity is designed for families to enjoy together and is particularly aimed at younger children aged 6-11 participating alongside an adult. Children may enjoy colouring the model independently, but adult assistance may be needed when assembling the mechanism.
Please note that the model created during the session contains small parts and is not suitable for children under 6 years old. Children should be supervised when assembling and using the completed model.
This workshop forms part of a wider programme including a talk on the history and craftsmanship of karakuri ningyō on Friday 26 and a drop-in demonstration event on Saturday 27 June (details coming soon).
The event series is presented as part of the Spotlight on Local Japan Programme, organized in collaboration with Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), which accepts applications from potential collaborators based in Japan to co-create cultural events presenting Japan’s regional diversity at Japan House London
Tickets for the event are non-refundable. Please read our Terms and Conditions for Event Tickets before purchasing your ticket.
Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.
About the speaker
Tamaya Shōbei IX
Tamaya Shōbei IX is a master craftsman of karakuriningyō (Japanese mechanical puppets) from Inuyama in Aichi Prefecture. He inherited the Tamaya Shōbei name in 1995 and is dedicated to preserving and advancing the craft ofkarakuri through restoration, research and creating his own models. In 1998, he completed a full reconstruction of the famed Yumihiki Dōji (Archer doll), originally created by inventor Tanaka Hisashige. His Chahakobi Ningyō (Tea-serving doll) has been donated to both the National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo and the British Museum in London. He has received numerous honours for his craftsmanship and cultural contributions.
Booking Essential | £20
*Recommended for children aged 6-11 taking part with a parent or guardian. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
*Please note that there are only 15 places per session.
*Each workshop place includes one set of materials and workspace, intended for shared participation between a child and accompanying adult, although individual participants are also welcome.
