Tile cat finished product display
Tile cat finished product display
Tile cat finished product display
Tile cat experience hall
Plasticity process
A variety of colors and styles to choose from
Clay sculpture process
Tool plasticity process
Colorful tile cat window display
查看更多信息

Yunnan Tile Cat Making Experience (Half Day)

4 hours

Easy

Discover Yunnan’s unique folk art in a hands-on tile cat workshop. Learn the story behind the traditional Wā Māo, shape your own clay creation, and take home a meaningful handmade souvenir inspired by local culture.

Create Your Own Yunnan Tile Cat: A Traditional Folk Art Workshop

Discover the charm of Yunnan’s traditional folk art in this hands-on tile cat making workshop. Known as Wā Māo (瓦猫) in Chinese, these distinctive clay guardian figures are traditionally placed on rooftops and above entrances in Yunnan homes. They symbolize protection, good fortune, and the hope for a peaceful household.

Join a local artisan to explore the stories behind this fascinating craft and create your own tile cat to remember your time in Yunnan.

What to Expect

Discover the Story Behind the Tile Cat

Learn about the history and cultural significance of Wā Māo in Yunnan’s traditional architecture and folk beliefs. Discover why these expressive figures, often featuring wide mouths and striking eyes, have long been associated with protecting homes and welcoming good fortune.

Get Hands-On with Traditional Craft

Work with clay and learn the basic techniques used to shape a tile cat. With guidance throughout the creative process, you can form your own figure, add distinctive details, and personalize its appearance.

Whether you prefer a traditional guardian-inspired design or a more playful interpretation, this is an opportunity to explore local craftsmanship through your own creativity.

Connect with Local Craftsmanship

Gain a closer appreciation of Yunnan’s folk-art traditions as you learn about the materials, techniques, and cultural stories behind the craft. This experience offers a more personal way to connect with local culture beyond sightseeing.

Create a Meaningful Travel Keepsake

Your handmade tile cat will be a unique reminder of your time in Yunnan. The finishing and kiln-firing process depends on the workshop’s arrangements, so please check with the host regarding collection or delivery options before booking.

Why Join This Experience?

  • Cultural Discovery: Explore a distinctive tradition rooted in Yunnan’s local architecture and folk beliefs.
  • Creative Participation: Make your own clay artwork rather than simply observing a demonstration.
  • A Personal Souvenir: Create a meaningful keepsake connected to your journey.
  • A Memorable Local Experience: Enjoy a creative break from conventional sightseeing and discover another side of Yunnan.

Good to Know

  • This is a hands-on craft workshop; no previous pottery experience is required.
  • The finished piece may require additional drying and kiln firing.
  • Same-day collection is not guaranteed. Please confirm the expected completion time and any shipping arrangements with the workshop host.
  • The final design and finish may vary depending on the clay, techniques, and workshop process.

Come discover the story of Yunnan’s Wā Māo and create a little piece of local culture with your own hands.

包含什么？
    • English-speaking Private guide
    • All materials needed for tile cat making
    • Guidance from a skilled artisan
    • Your own tile cat to take home
    • Pickup/Dropoff
    • French/German/Italian/Spanish/Russian guide (extra fee)
    • Malay/Indonesian/Thai/Vietnamese/Khmer guide (extra fee)
    除外情况
      • Tile Cat Making fee (CNY115)
      • Shipping charges for Tile Cat (depend on destination)
      • Tip and gratuities
      • Meals and beverages
      • Personal expenses
      请注意

        WORKSHOP DURATION AND SKILL LEVEL

        • LENGTH OF THE EXPERIENCE 
          • Tile cat-making workshops usually last 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity and drying time.
        • NO PRIOR EXPERIENCE NEEDED
          • These workshops are typically designed for beginners. The instructor will guide you through the process, so you don't need any artistic background.
        • CHILDREN-FRIENDLY
          • Many cat tile-making experiences are suitable for children, but it's best to confirm the age requirements beforehand. 
          • This activity is a great way to bond with family or friends.

        HEALTH AND SAFETY

        • ALLERGIES AND SENSITIVITIES
          • If you have any allergies or skin sensitivities, please let us know in advance. 
          • The materials used are usually safe, but some people may react to clay and glazes.

        CULTURAL ETIQUETTE 

        • RESPECT LOCAL TRADITIONS
          • Tile cat-making is often connected to local culture and traditions. Be respectful during the process and follow the instructor's guidance.
        • APPRECIATE THE ART FORM 
          • The experience is not just about crafting an object, but also about appreciating the history and cultural significance of tile cats in Yunnan.
        需要携带什么

          TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

          • OLD CLOTHES OR APRON
            • Wear clothes that you don't mind getting messy, as clay and paints can stain.
            • An apron can also help protect your clothing.
          • FOOTWEAR
            • Wear closed-toe shoes for safety and comfort, especially if you'll be working with clay and tools.
          • HAND SANITIZER OR WET WIPES
            • Can help you clean your hands during and after the experience, especially if handwashing facilities are limited.
          • WATER
            • Stay hydrated. Having a water bottle can help you keep hydrated throughout the session.
          • CAPTURE MEMORIES
            • Bring a camera or smartphone to take photos of your creations and the process, as this can be a fun experience to document.
          • HEALTH NEEDS
            • If you have any allergies or need medication for conditions like asthma, ensure you bring those with you.

          By being prepared with these items, you can enhance your tile cat-making experience and ensure your are comfortable and ready to enjoy the creative process.