Alisher Nazirov
Traditional Potter β’ 5th Generation
Gijduvan β’ Ceramics & Glazing
Learn traditional "Gijduvan blue" glaze techniques in a family-run pottery workshop.
Included in Samarkand & Gijduvan journeys
View Pottery Workshops
Discover Uzbekistan's Living Craft Heritage
Small-group journeys connecting you directly with master artisans keeping centuries-old traditions alive
β β β β β 4.4/5 on GetYourGuide Β· Local artisan workshops Β· Small groups (max 8) Β· Authentic craft experiences
Family-Run Since 2012
Local expertise passed down through generations
Hands-On Workshops
Create your own crafts alongside master artisans
Sustainable Tourism
60% of fees support local artisan communities
Why Our Craft Tours Are Different
More Time with Artisans
3+ hours per workshop vs. 30-minute tourist stops. Real craft immersion, not photo ops.
Real Working Studios
Visit family workshops and master artisans, not factory showrooms or tourist traps.
Thoughtful Pacing
Maximum 2 workshops per day. Time to absorb, create, and connectβnot rush through experiences.
Cultural Context
Learn the history, significance, and techniques behind each craft from experts who live it.
Why Choose Us
Authentic Craft Experiences with Real Artisans
We connect you with master craftspeople in their working studios for hands-on experiences that support traditional crafts.
View 2025 Craft Workshops
Limited availability for small-group craft experiences
From: 3-Day Pottery & Silk Tour
$890 per person
- 12+ hours hands-on pottery instruction
- All craft materials included
- Expert local guide
- Private transport between workshops
- Traditional homestay accommodation
- Breakfast & lunch
- Keep your handmade pottery
Comparable private cultural experiences: $1,200β$1,500+
You save $300-600+ with our group format
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Local Expertise
Born and raised in Samarkand, we know the artisans, their stories, and authentic craft traditions.
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Personalized Experiences
Small groups and flexible itineraries ensure every tour matches your interests and pace.
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24/7 Multilingual Support
Round-the-clock assistance in English, French, Russian, and Uzbek throughout your journey.
Licensed Tour Operator
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Est. 2012
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Verified by GetYourGuide
Craft Immersion
Deep Dive into Traditional Crafts
Learn traditional crafts from skilled local artisans in authentic working workshops
From 2-day pottery intensives to 12-day multi-craft odysseys. Experience Gijduvan blue glazing, Margilan silk weaving, and Bukhara suzani embroidery with local craftspeople. Small groups (max 6), 100% hands-on workshops, artisan homestays.
Max 8 travelers per tour
Led by local craft experts
100% Hands-On
Only 3 spots left this month
Explore 2025 Workshop Calendar
How craft workshops work
Free cancellation up to 14 days before departure
Meet the Artisans
The Master Craftspeople You'll Meet
Visit working workshops β from family studios to established local craft centers. Workshops vary by tour.
Yodgorlik Silk Factory
Silk Weavers β’ Margilan
Margilan β’ Silk Weaving & Ikat
Watch silk being spun from cocoons on 100-year-old machines. Learn traditional ikat dyeing.
Included in Margilan & Fergana Valley journeys
View Silk Workshops
Suzani Embroidery
5+ Generations of Family Designs
Bukhara β’ Textile Embroidery
Learn chain stitch and satin stitch from families who've passed down patterns for 5 generations.
Included in Bukhara & Textile Immersion journeys
View Embroidery Classes
Miniature Painting
Persian Miniature Artists
Bukhara β’ Visual Arts
Study Persian miniature painting techniques. Learn pigment preparation and brush techniques.
View Painting WorkshopsReviews
What Travelers Say
Real experiences from travelers who explored Uzbekistan's crafts with us
"I expected a nice tour. What I got was so much more β genuine connections with craftspeople who opened their homes and hearts to us. Watching Alisher shape clay with techniques his great-grandfather used, hearing the stories behind each pattern at the suzani workshop... this wasn't tourism, this was immersion. I came back with real skills, handmade pieces I created myself, and memories that still make me smile. If you want to truly understand Uzbekistan through its living traditions, this is the experience."
Catherine Thompson
π¦πΊ Melbourne, Australia
Terrific Guide, Amazing Experience
Our guide Odil was terrific! He knew all the details about the workshops and spoke fluent English. Very gentle manners and went the extra mile to explain the pottery techniques. The Gijduvan blue glaze workshop was unforgettable. Strongly recommended!
Reviewed on Tripadvisor
Professional & Knowledgeable
Atel, my tour guide, was very helpful and had in-depth knowledge about traditional Uzbek crafts. He goes the extra mile to explain things clearly and made sure we understood each step of the silk weaving process at Yodgorlik Factory. A truly authentic experience!
Reviewed on Website
Warm, Family-Run Excellence
The family-run approach makes all the difference. Very familiar atmosphere with attentive staff who speak excellent English. The suzani embroidery workshop was intimate and authentic. Located perfectly near Registan. Definitely recommendable!
Reviewed on Website
Authentic Cultural Experience
This was more than just a tour - it was a deep dive into Uzbek culture and craftsmanship. Every workshop was carefully chosen to showcase different traditional techniques. Our guide was patient and knowledgeable.
Reviewed on Website
Unforgettable Pottery Workshop
The pottery workshop in Gijduvan was the highlight of my trip! Learning ancient techniques from master craftsmen was incredible. I even took home my own handmade bowl. Highly recommend this experience!
Reviewed on Website
Excellent Organization
Everything was perfectly organized from start to finish. Transportation was comfortable, timing was perfect, and the workshops were fascinating. The guides spoke excellent English and were very accommodating.
Reviewed on Website
Beautiful Silk Road Traditions
Watching the silk ikat weaving process at Yodgorlik Factory was mesmerizing. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors are stunning. This tour truly brings Silk Road traditions to life. A must-do in Uzbekistan!
Reviewed on Website
Travel Stories
Uzbekistan Travel Guide & Insights
Expert guides on pottery, silk weaving, and traditional crafts β everything you need to know before booking
Top 11 Must-Visit Places in Uzbekistan
DDiscover the most breathtaking destinations in Uzbekistan, from ancient Silk Road cities to stunning natural landscapes.
A Culinary Journey Through Uzbekistan: Must-Try Dishes
From aromatic plov to succulent shashlik, explore the rich flavors and traditions of Uzbek cuisine.
The Silk Road: Uzbekistan's Golden Age of Trade and Culture
Explore how the ancient Silk Road shaped Uzbekistan into the crossroads of civilizations and cultures.
Is This Right For You?
Perfect for travelers who want:
- You enjoy hands-on learning and creative activities
- You prefer small groups (max 6 travelers)
- You value cultural depth over fast sightseeing
- You want authentic connections with local artisans
- You appreciate slow travel and immersive experiences
Not ideal if you prefer:
- Checking off many tourist attractions quickly
- Large group tours with set schedules
- Luxury hotels over authentic local stays
- Fully pre-planned itineraries with no flexibility
- Avoiding homestays or family-run guesthouses
Sample Day
A Day in the Life of a Craft Traveler
A glimpse into the balanced pace of our workshops β time to learn, create, and absorb.
Morning
Pottery Workshop with Master Alisher
Start your day in Gijduvan meeting 6th-generation ceramic master Alisher Nazirov. Learn traditional pottery techniques, create your own piece, and understand the significance of geometric patterns.
Midday
Lunch at Family Home
Share a home-cooked meal with Alisher's family. Try traditional Uzbek dishes like plov and shurpa while hearing stories about craft traditions passed through generations.
Afternoon
Silk Weaving Demonstration
Visit Margilan's Yodgorlik Silk Factory to see the ancient art of ikat silk weaving. Watch master weavers create intricate patterns using hand-dyed threads on traditional looms.
Evening
Sunset at Registan Square
End your day at Samarkand's iconic Registan Square. Watch the sunset illuminate the turquoise domes while reflecting on your day connecting with Uzbekistan's craft heritage.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about our craft immersion tours
Will I meet famous master artisans?
Yes, many of our artisan partners are nationally recognized masters.
For example, Alisher Nazirov (ceramics) and the Margilan Yodgorlik Silk Factory team are celebrated throughout Uzbekistan for preserving traditional techniques.
Is this a shopping tour?
No, this is a cultural immersion experience, not a shopping trip.
While you can purchase crafts directly from artisans (supporting them fairly), our focus is on learning, hands-on workshops, and cultural exchange.
Are all experiences hands-on?
Most workshops include hands-on components where you create your own piece.
Some crafts (like silk weaving on traditional looms) involve demonstrations due to the complexity of the equipment, but you'll still get close-up access and explanations.
Do I need prior craft experience?
No experience necessary! Our artisan partners are patient teachers who work with complete beginners.
They'll guide you through each step, from basic techniques to finishing your piece.
Are children welcome?
Yes, children 8+ are welcome on most tours. Artisans often enjoy teaching younger visitors.
For children under 8, please contact us to discuss which workshops would be most suitable.
What languages do guides speak?
All tours include English-speaking guides. Many artisans speak Russian or Uzbek.
Your guide will translate conversations and provide cultural context throughout.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes, we offer private tours for groups of 2-8 people. Private tours offer more flexibility in schedule and pace.
Contact us contact us.
What's included in the tour price?
Our tours include:
- All workshop instruction and demonstrations
- Craft materials for hands-on activities
- Expert local guide throughout
- Private transport between workshops
- Traditional homestay or guesthouse accommodation
- Breakfast and lunch (dinner not included)
- You keep any pieces you create
Not included: International flights, dinners, personal purchases, tips.
What's the cancellation policy?
Flexible cancellation up to 7 days before departure for full refund. Cancellations within 7 days may incur fees depending on artisan commitments.
Free cancellation: 7+ days before departure
50% refund: 3-7 days before departure
No refund: Less than 3 days before departure
Ready to Experience Uzbekistan's Craft Heritage?
Join a small-group journey connecting you with master artisans
Limited availability β’ Small groups only