Into the Stonemasons’ Village — A Journey Through Kyoto’s Living Stone Culture and Craftsmanship

In the satoyama countryside of Kameoka, Kyoto, a culture of stonemasonry has been passed down through generations for centuries.

Walk through an area with a history of stonemasonry stretching back some 1,500 years, visiting a grand stone torii gate built entirely by hand around 100 years ago and a shrine closely connected to local stonemasons. Along the way, discover how stone, the land, and the lives of the people here have shaped one another over time.

Your guide is Kaito Saida, a stonemason at Saida Stone Shop, where the craft of working with stone has been handed down through generations.

After exploring the area, visit the workshop to see traditional stonemasonry tools and techniques up close. You will also have the opportunity to grind tencha tea leaves using a traditional stone mill and enjoy a bowl of freshly ground matcha.

Walk the land, listen to the stories of a stonemason, witness the craft firsthand, and experience stone through touch.
This one-day-only special tour offers an immersive encounter with Kyoto’s stone culture through all five senses.

JR Kameoka Station — Meet & Transfer
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Field Tour of the Stonemasons’ Village
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Saida Stone Shop — Workshop Visit & Stonemasonry Demonstration
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Matcha Grinding with a Traditional Stone Mill

Date | Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (National Holiday)
Time | Morning Session: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. / Afternoon Session: 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Duration | Approx. 2 hours
Capacity | 10 participants per session
Meeting & End Point | On-site

Free transportation from JR Kameoka Station is available.
Complimentary transportation is provided by Saida Stone Shop.
Morning Session | Departs JR Kameoka Station at 9:50 a.m.
Afternoon Session | Departs JR Kameoka Station at 1:50 p.m.
*After the tour, complimentary transportation back to JR Kameoka Station is also available.

Language | Japanese / English

Participation Fee | ¥9,000 (tax included)

＋ Optional Experience | Make Your Own Stone Candle Holder

As an optional experience exclusively available to tour participants, you can make your own stone candle holder. Experience a part of the stonemason’s craft as you work the stone yourself and gradually shape it into a finished piece. Your completed candle holder is yours to take home on the day.

Additional Fee | ¥12,000 (tax included)

Capacity | Limited to the first 6 participants per session

In Case of Rain |
The tour will proceed in light rain.

In the event of heavy rain, the tour will be canceled. Participants will be notified the day before the tour, and the participation fee will be refunded.

What to Wear |
The tour includes some walking on mountain paths. Please avoid wearing sandals or high-heeled shoes.

*If interpretation in a language other than Japanese or English is required, participants are kindly requested to arrange their own interpreter.