Modern Raden Workshop: A Japanese-Inspired Shell Inlay Craft

Recent reviews of Modern Raden Workshop: A Japanese-Inspired Shell Inlay Craft

• 5/5 from Emiko Fukami, attended Sep 2026: I’m Japanese, but this was actually my first time learning about Raden in such detail. We started with its history and then learned about the different types of shells used, which I found really fascinating. I was a little worried about cutting the shell pieces because I’m not very good at delicate handwork, but everything was explained and demonstrated so carefully that I really enjoyed the process. I especially loved coming up with my own design! As I was visiting Australia, I chose “Go-en” (ご縁 – connection) as the theme for my piece. Next time, I’d love to try creating something with flowers or fireworks. I would definitely love to join another workshop! Thank you so much for such a wonderful experience and a lovely memory! ^^
• 5/5 from Ayako Suzuki, attended Sep 2026: Fantastic ️️️ I knew about Raden, because I’m Japanese. But I never imagined I would have such a wonderful experience of Raden art!!! Cutting out delicate seashells is difficult, but it’s a fun when I manage to cut them into the exact shape I wanted. It was moving to watch the inlaid work stand out more clearly as the process unfolded. Thank you Akki-san, Hisae-san, I loved to do it️
• 5/5 from Tiahna Davis, attended Sep 2026: What an amazing experience! Akki was a fantastic instructor, and made the experience fun and informative. It was lovely to learn about Japanese culture in such a unique and immersive way. The class is so relaxing and will leave you in zen mode for the rest of the day.
• 5/5 from Ella Chan, attended Aug 2026: I booked this class as a birthday gift for my best friend, and we had a wonderful time! Akki san & Hisae san are lovely, respectful and helpful teachers. This is a very special experience that highlights beautiful Japanese culture and art. I recommend this activity if you’re looking for a unique creative experience, with items you can treasure forever!
• 5/5 from Kyokotsumura Baker, attended Jul 2026: Amazing class with so much value! This class was beyond my expectations! Learning the history was fascinating, and trying Raden was a great touch. Working with the delicate, thin shells was challenging, but the result was so beautiful. ​Making three whole items—a wine glass, a rocks glass, and a keychain—made it so rewarding. Thank you for such a great experience!
• 5/5 from Katie Harrowfield, attended Jul 2026: I had such a wonderful time at the Japanese shell inlay class. The instructor was incredibly patient, welcoming and explained each step clearly, making it easy to follow even as a beginner. Creating traditional shell inlay pieces was such a relaxing and rewarding experience. I loved learning about the techniques while making something beautiful to take home. My wine glass and matching charm turned out even better than I expected, and I'm so proud of what I created. The atmosphere was calm, creative and enjoyable, and the class was well organised with plenty of support throughout. I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone looking for a unique cultural experience or wanting to try something different. I'll definitely be back for another class! Thank you for such a memorable experience.
• 5/5 from Yun Yan Yu, attended Jul 2026: This class was very engaging, fun and educational! Not only was it very rewarding to be able to create your own product, the teachers were very fun to talk and interact with, and were very patient and supportive. They went over the history and culture behind Raden, and encouraged us to be creative. I went to celebrate a birthday for someone, and would definitely recommend the experience to anyone interested in Japanese culture.
• 5/5 from Jessica Ewens, attended Jul 2026: The class was fantastic! Akki and Hisae are excellent teachers and guided my partner and I through the process of designing, cutting the shell, and inlaying the shell on a wine glass, tumbler and pendant. It was very easy to make a beautiful design even with zero experience. They also explained the history behind raden which was very interesting. Very happy with the experience, and looking forward to coming back to do another workshop in the future.
• 5/5 from Miyoko Nose, attended Jun 2026: I really enjoyed the class! You get to create 3 of your own designed pieces. It looked difficult but with teacher’s instructions, you can create amazing Raden art in 2 hours and take them home on the day! Great teachers and very small class. I highly recommend this workshop for your next fun and creative activity!! Thank you Akki-san and Hisae-san for a great afternoon!
• 5/5 from Jonathon Cassidy, attended Jun 2026: This Raden workshop was such a fun (and educational) experience! Led by Akki and Hisae, both well versed in the fine art of Raden, they provided a fun and relaxing experience as they guided us through the ancient histories of Japanese Raden and encouraged our creativity as we mapped out our designs, hand cut and laid out the shells to bring our designs to fruition. We enjoyed some lovely green tea, Matcha KitKats and Japanese rice crackers while we waited for our pieces to cure. Sadly, one of my sakura flowers shifted on my tumbler and was cured out of shape and looks like random petals instead of a flower, and the tip of my Mount Fuji also shifted (it chipped when I was cutting the shell, but I had put it in place so it didn't look like it was broken, but the small chip was also shifted before curing, but it is what it is. My husband and I would 100% do this workshop again, and we hope more people sign up for this wonderful workshop! 10/10! From the bottom of our hearts, Thank You for hosting such a wonderful evening and experience for us!!
• 5/5 from Laura Kuleff, attended Jun 2026: Akki & Hisae were wonderful hosts that made us all feel welcome. The class was thoroughly enjoyable, well timed, and relaxing, with a great background soundtrack, and informative instructions. They provided such a great class we are looking at what class we can do with them next time we want to do a creative class!
• 5/5 from Saori Tsuchida, attended Jun 2026: I had a lovely experience attending Akki-san and Hisae-san's Modern Raden workshop during my holiday in Sydney. The workshop was easy to follow thanks to the clear, step-by-step instructions. Akki-san was very knowledgeable, especially about the history of Raden, and I found his lecture fascinating and informative. There were plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with the other participants, which made the experience even more enjoyable. At the end of the workshop, it was wonderful to be able to take my handmade Raden craft home as a souvenir. Overall, I had a fantastic time and would highly recommend this workshop to anyone interested in learning about the art of Raden while creating something beautiful to take home.
• 5/5 from Joanne Heather, attended Jun 2026: Today I enjoying myself to learn from the teacher is very good & so calm to relax with interputer sign language, it was so Beautiful art craft with shells, I love it
• 5/5 from Sandra Harding, attended May 2026: I had such an enjoyable time doing the Modern Raden workshop. Akki was a lovely teacher, very informative and instructive. We spent two hours making the three items and it was such a pleasure to go home and use the wine glass and tumbler. Would highly recommend this class.
• 5/5 from Jacqui Freeman, attended Apr 2026: I took my daughter to one of Akki and Hisae's modern raden workshops because we both love Japan and their eye for beauty in the simple things. Akki and Hisae were so passionate about their teaching of raden that at the end we felt utterly immersed in their culture, while learning all about the this traditional craft, which made us slow down, focus and enjoy creating raden for ourselves! We took home our creations at the end of the class too which was amazing. We would highly recommend this workshop for 1:1 time with family and for larger groups as well. Thank you Akki and Hisae!
• 5/5 from Chihiro Kownacki, attended Apr 2026: Raden is one of the decorative traditional Japanese crafts. Using very thin shell pieces. (Mother-of-pearl, abalone etc.) Now you can learn the modern style Raden technique in Sydney. I've attended the workshop run by Akki and Hisae. Thank you for their step-by-step detailed guidance, I managed making 3 Raden items within 2 hours and brought them home the same day. How exciting! I enjoyed it very much. The location is super convenient, only a few minutes walk from QVB and Town Hall. Highly recommend.
• 5/5 from Keiko Ikeda, attended Apr 2026: Today, I participated in a "Modern Raden Workshop" with a friend. Even though "Raden" is a Japanese word, I had never heard of it before. Seeing the artwork for the first time reminded me that there was actually a decorative box with Raden at my parents' house in Japan. It felt nostalgic as I began my own creation. I was thrilled to be able to finish three beautiful pieces during the two-hour workshop. The stories about the history of Raden art and the types of shells shared during the session were also fascinating. I think I was able to focus and enjoy the process even more than I expected thanks to the kind and patient guidance of the teachers. I can’t wait to start using the beautifully crafted wine glass, tumbler, and charm from tomorrow. Thank you for such a precious experience!
• 5/5 from Midori Furze, attended Apr 2026: I had such a wonderful experience at this raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) workshop on ClassBento! Akki and Hisae explained each step so clearly and guided us with great care and attention, which made the whole process feel approachable even for a beginner like me. The two hours flew by—it was incredibly enjoyable and immersive. I was so happy with how all three of my pieces turned out; they’re truly beautiful and feel very special knowing I made them myself. This was my first time trying raden, and I’m so glad I had the chance to experience this traditional Japanese craft here in Sydney. Even if you’ve tried many different kinds of crafts before, I think raden is something quite unique that you may not have encountered yet. I highly recommend this workshop—it's a rare and rewarding experience that will leave you inspired and proud of what you create.
• 5/5 from Ruth Joynes, attended Apr 2026: Fabulous class with Akki-Sensei and Hisae- Sensei. We learn how to make stunning objects with their talented help and learnt about the history and processes of raden at the same time over tea and snacks! Arigatōgozaimasu ️
• 5/5 from Noriko Sutherland, attended Apr 2026: I participated in Raden, a mother-of-pearl inlay workshop. Instructors Akki and Hisae were very friendly and explained the process clearly. In just two hours, I was able to beautifully decorate a wine glass, tumbler and keychain. The workshop was fascinating; not only did I learn about traditional Japanese crafts, but I also learned about the history of Raden. I was surprised to learn that Raden was introduced to Japan from Persia and China via the Silk Road 1, 300 years ago, with artisans perfecting the technique in Japan. The workshop is conveniently located in the heart of Sydney. It's wonderful too that you can take your finished Raden works of art immediately home with you - no waiting required for it to dry/set. This would certainly make the perfect gift for an anniversary or a loved one's birthday. Thank you Hisae and Akki, for a truly meaningful and engaging time.
• 5/5 from Hiroshi Takei, attended Apr 2026: Thank you so much Akki and Hisae for your thoughtful guidance on "raden". The two hours flew by as I learned about its Raden’s history and practice —there was so much I didn’t know, and it made the experience incredibly meaningful. What I especially loved was the creative freedom. Instead of copying something, I could design and finish my own unique piece. There’s something really special about making a one-of-a-kind work with your own hands—it’s such a fun and rewarding experience, and I’d definitely recommend it to others! Now that I’ve brought my finished piece home and keep admiring it, I can already feel new ideas bubbling up for what I’d like to create next. It’s really exciting! Thanks again for such a wonderful experience.
• 5/5 from Danny Spain, attended Apr 2026: Recently I visited the Japanese Art Craft Workshop of Akki and Hisae. There my wife and I participated in learning the fascinating art of Raden. The name Raden consists of two Chinese characters. Ra meaning shell and Den meaning inlaid. It is a technique of inlaying thin layers of pearl shells in lacquer. It is said that the basic technique of raden originated in Egypt around 3500 BC, and the technique was introduced from the Sasanian Persia to China during the Tang Dynasty. The technique was known in china as LuoDian and was introduced from the Tang Dynasty into Japan during the Nara Period, where it is referred to as Raden using the same Chinese Characters. In Japan raden has been used in combination with various maki-e techniques since the Heian Period. Both my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience of learning this wonderful art and would definitely recommend and encourage others to visit this workshop where Akki and Hisae are teaching this wonderful Art. Yours Truly, Daniel Spain
• 5/5 from Michie Spain, attended Apr 2026: What does “Raden” mean? “Ra” refers to shell, especially spiral shells, and “den” means inlay or decorative setting. The other day, I joined a truly literal “Raden” workshop, where finely broken shell pieces were inlaid into the base of a simple wine glass and drinking glass. What started as plain, unremarkable glassware was transformed into something so beautiful, it could rival antique Bohemian glass. I have always carried a bit of a complex about not being good at drawing since childhood, so I found myself wondering how to arrange the shell pieces and spent quite some time hesitating. The instructor advised me to simply place them in a balanced way, so in the end, I followed that guidance—perhaps a little “freely, ” to be honest. And the result? The tiny fragments of mother-of-pearl shimmered like jewels, and just as I mentioned earlier, the piece had transformed into a stunning work of art. To be honest, I was the one most surprised by how beautiful it turned out. Whether you consider yourself artistic or not, I highly recommend trying this experience at least once.
• 5/5 from Mayumi Arahata, attended Apr 2026: I had heard of RADEN螺鈿 (mother-of-pearl inlay), but I never expected to try it myself in Sydney. The materials were absolutely beautiful and so relaxing to look at. It was my first time so I felt a bit nervous, but the instructors were kind and explained everything clearly, which helped me feel at ease.　My piece didn’t turn out exactly as I imagined, but that made it feel even more special. I really enjoyed the experience. Sydney CBD location was convenient, and the whole experience was so calming—it even helped me make up with my partner after a disagreement. Thank you Akki san & Hisae san :)
• 5/5 from Cedric Muller, attended Apr 2026: We attended Akki&Hisae's class as a couple for a shared creative experience. We got to both learn about the history of the art, the way the shells are collected and then crafted, and progressively train and create our own art pieces under the caring guidance of our sensei. The experience was fun, heart-warming, bonding, and meaningful. And to top this off, we got our own unique beautiful glasses and medallions to take home. A truly unique soul-enriching experience, whole-heatedly recommended! Thank you Akki and Hisae, you deserve the best!
• 5/5 from Ayu Igarashi, attended Apr 2026: I was looking for a tumbler I really liked when I found this mother-of-pearl inlay workshop and decided to participate. I'm so grateful that they let me skip the parts I'm not good at and combine existing materials to create my own piece. It turned out better than I expected, and I'm incredibly happy!
• 5/5 from Shamim Cachalia, attended Apr 2026: Thank you Akki and Hisae for a wonderfully creative evening and for sharing your knowledge about the history of Raden. Your explanation of how to cut and place the shells was very clear and showing us various samples of work was helpful in deciding how to create some beautiful patterns. The choice of glassware really brought out the beauty of the shells. I had a fantastic time. Akki and Hisae were excellent, friendly hosts. Shamim
• 5/5 from Linton Teoh, attended Mar 2026: Thank you, Akki-san and Hisae-san, for your workshop on Raden. As someone with an interest in Japanese culture, I found their 2-hour class on this traditional Japanese art using iridescent seashell inlays to be not only hands on but also an exploration of the history of this beautiful craft. After taking this class, I walked away not only with items that they taught me how to make but also a new perspective on this art form. The experience was made all the more enjoyable by Akki and Hisae, who were incredibly friendly, encouraging and welcoming. There was a great balance between structured guidance and the freedom to experiment with your own design. Overall, it was a highly satisfying experience. If you’re looking for a creative way to spend an evening that feels both productive and relaxing, I’d strongly recommend booking a spot in their next class. It is a well-structured, rewarding introduction to a stunning tradition.
• 5/5 from Yasuyo Narushima, attended Mar 2026: Hi Akki and Hisae, thank you so much for this wonderful Raden workshop I truly appreciate it. Under the guidance of Akki and Hisae, I had my very first experience with raden. In just a little over two hours, I was able to learn so much. I learned what raden is, cut precious mother-of-pearl materials, arranged them as I liked on the base of a wine glass, and while waiting for the glue to dry, I also learned about the history of raden. What a meaningful lesson I highly recommend that everyone try this experience. Raden was introduced to Japan during the Nara period via the Silk Road, and it is said that pieces are preserved in the Shosoin at Todaiji Temple. I feel very happy to have had such a wonderful experience here in Sydney, and I am truly grateful for the kind and attentive guidance from both Akki and Hisae
• 5/5 from Michelle Brown, attended Mar 2026: Such a fun class! The explanation about shells was so clear that I really started to appreciate their beauty. Cutting and arranging the thin, colourful shells felt fresh and exciting since I hadn’t done crafts for a while. I made two glasses and tried two different designs—one with fish and waves, and another like stained glass with a fireworks pattern. The fish one didn’t turn out the way I planned at first… but then I rotated it 90 degrees and—happy surprise! It suddenly looked like a completely different fish, and I actually liked it even more! Everyone in the room was laughing and amazed. That’s what makes this shell art so fun—mistakes can turn into happy accidents! The funny thing was, when I put water in the glass, the reflection made the art spread onto the sides. It looked so beautiful! I can’t wait to try it again. What design should I make next? Thank you so much, Akki & Hisae sensei Michelle
• 5/5 from Yukiko Kamihara, attended Mar 2026: What a wonderful experience! My impressions perfectly capture the charm of Raden. • The process itself is enjoyable. The process of seeing the shine gradually emerge as you work with your hands is truly exciting. The closer you get to completion, the more you want to do more. • A deeper attachment to the work. Something you create with your own hands becomes a one-of-a-kind treasure. The surprise of liking it more than you expected is a joy unique to creation. • An allure that makes you want to try again and again. Just changing the design completely changes the atmosphere, making you want to create another piece. • An experience you can enjoy with family and friends. Creating together sparks conversation, and showing each other the finished works is fun. I will strongly recommend it
• 5/5 from Evelyn Mike, attended Mar 2026: My husband and I love Japanese art and wanted to learn a new craft so this Raden workshop was perfect! The philosophical approach was lovely and Akki and Hisae were excellent teachers. We made such beautiful pieces in just 2 hours and had a wonderful time doing it! Highly recommend!!
• 5/5 from Shiori Niihara, attended Mar 2026: I took the Modern Raden workshop on ClassBento. It was a wonderful experience. What I found particularly pleasing was how engaging and enjoyable the detailed work was. With Akki and Hisae’s guidance, I found it easy to stay focused throughout. The class starts with practice and gradually builds up in difficulty, which makes it accessible and fun even for beginners. The instructors, Akki and Hisae, are truly passionate and put a lot of thought into how to make the experience enjoyable for me and my partner. They were warm and encouraging and friendly throughout the class. I also learned about the art of Raden. I’m very happy with what I created and would definitely recommend this class!
• 5/5 from Hirokazu Mashimo, attended Mar 2026: Akki and Hisae’s Raden workshop is a really authentic Japanese cultural experience. It was such a pleasure to be able to create the beauty of this art ourselves with the help of such skilled sensei. It was very fulfilling!
• 5/5 from Winona Widarto, attended Feb 2026: Akki and Hisae were very rich in knowledge with Raden Art, as well as other traditional Japanese art. It was interesting and fun. We made 3 artworks with Raden Art ((1) Wine Glass, (2) Glass, and (3) magnet/ pendant/ wine glass identifier of my choice) and I am able to take the 3 artworks home on the same day.
• 5/5 from Felix Chan, attended Feb 2026: I attended the Raden workshop by Akki and Hisae as a creative learning session, and it turned out to be an incredibly inspiring experience. During the workshop, we learned about the Japanese heritage and techniques behind Raden art and had the chance to create our own pieces, including a wine glass, tumbler, and fridge magnet. Akki and Hisae were patient, knowledgeable, and encouraging teachers, they explained each step clearly while giving everyone the freedom to explore their own artistic style. The venue felt warm and welcoming, and the materials provided were well prepared, making the whole process smooth and enjoyable even for beginners. What I loved most was the balance between cultural storytelling and hands-on creativity; it was informative, fun, and truly engaging from start to finish. Thank you, Akki and Hisae, for sharing your passion,  I left feeling inspired, creatively recharged, and excited to continue exploring Raden art.
• 5/5 from Yasuko Pierce, attended Feb 2026: This class was wonderful! When I heard about Raden, I was fascinated because the materials were Mother of Pear and you decorate glasses and other items using them. The teachers were very kind and taught me throughly. I learnt the history of Raden and the technique. When I started cutting the materials, I thought it might be too difficult for me but I soon got the hang of it and enjoyed the rest of the work. The venue is very close to the Martin Place metro station and very nice area. I enjoyed laying the materials on bottom of the glasses. I am satisfied with my work very much. I am sure wine and juice taste much nicer in my own Raden glasses. Thank you so much Akki and Hisae!
• 5/5 from K.ida, attended Jan 2026: I had such a great time at this workshop! Watching ordinary shells transform into stunning, shiny glass art was so satisfying. The final pieces look gorgeous and make perfect gifts. The teacher couple was warm, fun, and made the class super enjoyable. Highly recommend this workshop—I can’t wait to go again!
• 5/5 from Martin O'Keefe, attended Jan 2026: This was a very interesting and fun experience. The instructors are very knowledgeable, and clearly explained the simple steps required to create three quite stunning and unique pieces of art: a tumbler, wine glass, and fridge magnet. All done in less than two hours and I could take them home straight away. Highly recommended! Would also make a great gift experience for friends and family.
• 5/5 from Joshua Browne, attended Jan 2026: Absolutely amazing teachers, very friendly and happy vibe, incredible eye for detail, would highly recommend, perfect for a date night activity and got to take pieces home with us to keep after making them