Ubud’s soul is more than just yoga studios and world-class spas, it’s also an artisanal capital. This guide explores hands-on pottery, silversmithing and cooking workshops that reflect Ubud’s long-standing role as Bali’s cultural heart.
Before Ubud became known for wellness and retreats, it was Bali’s cultural heart. School trips often brought children to carving studios, where artisans shaped intricate designs in volcanic rock and wood, or to silversmith workshops with small gift shops. And a visit to Bali was never complete without bringing home a special trinket that you never quite knew what to do with, but always looked incredibly pretty (hence the buy).
While Ubud’s reputation today lies in meditation, its artistic spirit remains very much alive. Side streets and hidden corners are filled with galleries and craft studios showcasing both traditional and modern techniques, and events catering for this different approach to nourishing your soul are still regularly scheduled. With so many options, a little guidance goes a long way. Here are some favourite spots to explore Ubud’s creative scene and take home a unique piece of art made in its inspiring atmosphere.
Read also: Why Ubud Is the World’s Wellness Capital of Rest, Ritual and Renewal
GUIDED POTTERY WORKSHOPS & STUDIOS
Why try pottery in Bali when you could just take a class back home? The simple answer: for the vibes. There’s something special about learning a new skill in Bali. The views are unbeatable, and pottery in Ubud is both immersive and mindful. Many studios are open-air, surrounded by rice fields or peaceful gardens, making the act of shaping clay feel meditative.
So why try pottery in Bali? Because you can. And it’s an experience unlike anywhere else.
RÜSTERS
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Why go? Rüsters is an open ceramics studio where you can book solo sessions or work under the guidance of expert instructors.
Whether you want to try hand building with pinch clay or experiment on the throwing wheel, this studio offers a creative space that welcomes every skill level. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to explore your ideas at your own pace. You can reserve a spot in advance, or stop by and see if a studio seat is available. Even if the studio is full, you can still relax with a great cup of coffee and enjoy a selection of delicious treats at the coffee shop.
Address: Jl. Raya Kengetan No. 44, Ubud, Bali 80571 Reservation: +62 811-3941-1041
Gaya Ceramics Art Center
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Why go? An inspiring blend of Italian innovation and attention to detail with the high level of craftsmanship inspired by Balinese culture, nature, and architecture.
With exceptional workshops, an artist residency program, and a beautiful showroom filled with detailed and thoughtfully crafted pieces, Gaya Ceramics Art Center offers an experience that will leave your jaw hanging loose from awe. Explore the wide range of art on display while learning more about the artists behind the work. When planning your visit, call ahead to find out if any international workshops taught by renowned ceramic artists are on the schedule.
Address: Gg. Cahaya, Sayan, Ubud, Bali 80571 Reservation: +62 361-898-9515
Sari Api Ceramics Studio
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Why go? Sari Api Ceramics Studio offers a welcoming Clay for Kids class created for children ages four to fourteen, making it an ideal spot for parent-child bonding in a creative environment.
Young artists can learn simple hand building techniques such as pinch and slab, and they can even try the pottery wheel to craft small bowls or cups. After shaping their pieces, kids can add bright glazes that make the experience playful and expressive. Set in a peaceful open air space just north of Ubud, the studio provides a safe and relaxed environment for children to enjoy hands-on creativity.
Address: Jl. Suweta No.167, Ubud, Bali 80571 Reservation: +62 813-3881-4973
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SILVER JEWELLERY WORKSHOPS
Pure and simple, Bali’s silver craftsmanship is living history you can actually see (and try) for yourself. Local artisans still use traditional techniques to create the intricate Balinese designs inspired by nature, Hindu stories, and Balinese cultural symbols, giving each item a deeper meaning. But if you’re looking for something a little more unique and personal, artisans in Bali love to share their craft through hands-on workshops where you can create your own piece from start to finish.
And honestly? Learning to make your own jewelry sounds way more intimidating than it actually is. With patient, expert guidance, you’ll be surprised by how quickly you get hooked on creating the piece you’ve been dreaming about. And if your finished jewelry has a few tiny bumps or quirks that can’t completely be smoothed out? Well, that’s the magic of a handmade piece. It’s perfectly imperfect, and totally yours.
Alam Ubud Jewelry Workshop
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Why go? Located just five minutes from Ubud Monkey Forest, it has a central location so you can plan your day easily. Check their package options if you’re looking for family-friendly activities.
Unleashing your creativity is hardwork, so it’s a good thing Alam Ubud Jewelry Workshop promises a cosy, air-conditioned space. The best thing about it? They have several locations across Bali in Canggu, Kuta, Pecatu, Seminyak and Uluwatu. We know how addictive making silver jewellery can be!
Address: Jl. Banjar Penestanan Kaja Gg. Pacekan No.18A, Ubud, Bali 80571 Reservation: +62 812-3776-1570
Alas Arum Silver Class
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Why go? If silver is not your cup of tea, they offer the option to create jewellery in gold. Their special after-sunset workshop also means you can still enjoy a magical, nighttime jewellery-making experience.
Charming is the word that comes to mind when you first see Alas Arum Silver Class’ alang-alang thatched roof and open-air tropical vibe. Whether you’re discovering the craft for the first time or honing your skills, this is the perfect spot to create something meaningful. Need a fun activity for a group trip? They can host up to 50 guests and provide a private workshop experience complete with tailored buffet selections.
Address: Jl. Alas Arum II, Batuan, Kec. Sukawati, Bali 80582 Reservation: +62 823-4182-0260
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COOKING CLASSES
Bali’s close connection to nature and its incredibly fertile ground means cooking here is never just about what’s on the chopping board. It’s a window into the island’s delicious culture. Most cooking classes kick off with a stroll through a local market before moving on to hands-on cooking using traditional methods. And while the recipes are typically simplified (because true Indonesian cooking can take hours or even days) by the end, you won’t just eat a tasty meal but a practice to add to your repertoire at home.
Many classes also include your instructors sharing stories about Balinese rituals and daily life as you cook, giving you a real sense of how food connects to spirituality and community. And much like the fragrant blend of herbs that somehow clings to your clothes after the class, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for Bali’s culinary heritage and a fun, creative experience that stays with you long after the apron comes off.
Taman Dukuh Bali Farm Cooking School
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Why go? Deeply rooted in community and sustainability, Taman Dukuh Bali Farm Cooking School was founded by local farmers on a mission to preserve Bali’s culinary heritage while promoting organic farming.
Beyond cooking, you’ll learn about organic farming as you harvest your own ingredients, and understand how Balinese herbs and vegetables grow. You’ll cook several authentic Balinese and Indonesian dishes, all using fresh, farm-grown ingredients before finishing with a communal meal in the open-air kitchen surrounded by rice paddies and jungle.
Address: Jl. Raya Banjar Jati, Ubud, Bali Reservation: +62 852-1122-1669
Pemulan Bali Farm Cooking School
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Why go? Run by a cooperative of villagers, this class offers an authentic yet elevated hands-on experience that’s a step above the usual cooking class.
Learn from expert local chefs how to prepare five traditional Balinese dishes and one dessert, using fresh, locally sourced produce and, of course, the all-important spice paste, the magical ingredient that makes Balinese cuisine so unforgettable. You’ll even take home a handy recipe booklet (print and digital).
Paon Bali Cooking Class
Why go? One of Ubud’s most beloved cooking classes, run by a Balinese couple who bring warmth, humor, and deep culinary knowledge in a traditional Balinese home kitchen.
The class takes you step by step through the creation of dishes deeply rooted in Bali’s culinary traditions. But it’s not just about following a recipe, through the couple’s stories, jokes, and personal tips, the experience feels like cooking with family rather than a standard tourist workshop. You’ll laugh, learn, and leave with a deeper understanding of Balinese cuisine.
Read also: The Best Restaurants in Ubud: Where to Eat, Drink and Be Merry in Bali’s Culinary Mecca
OTHER WORKSHOPS TO TRY
Ubud’s creative spirit pulses through every corner of it, making it a hub for artists, makers, and innovators. Trying out Ubud’s creative culture means there’s always something to do and something new to try, with endless opportunities to tap into your personal creative interests making it the perfect place to explore, experiment, and let your imagination take the lead.
Paint and Sip Ubud
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Why go? A lively, welcoming art studio with a wide variety of workshops: painting on canvas, tote bags, incense making, candle & candle‑shell crafting, and more.
The vibe is flexible: you can go solo, as a couple, with kids, or in a group for a creative hangout. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to tap into your inner artist and leave with something you made yourself, a nice, personal souvenir from your time in Bali.
Address: Jl. Bisma No.85, Ubud, Bali 80571 Reservation: +62 823-4101-5281
Threads of Life
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Why go? Their natural dye classes offer a hands-on way to learn about Indonesia’s textile traditions, starting from natural fibres, learning traditional wax‑resist or tie‑dye techniques, and working with plant‑based dyes.
Beyond the workshop where you can enjoy a meaningful, immersive workshop experience in traditional textiles, you can also learn more about their work as a community‑driven textile and natural dye studio that works with over 1,200 women weavers across 12 Indonesian islands to create heirloom‑quality textiles using sustainable and traditional methods. You can even support fair‑trade artisans and take home a truly meaningful souvenir.
Address: Jl. Subak Uma Petulu Lebah, Ubud, Bali 80571 Reservation: +62 812-3904-0293
Planning a trip to the Island of the Gods? Check out our other guides:
72 Hours in Seminyak, Bali: The Best Places to Stay, Dine, Shop, and Unwind
Bali Wedding Villas: Your Guide To A Beach (or Jungle) Wedding In Paradise
The Best Padel Courts in Bali: Where to Play, Stay, and Socialise