"Taiken"
That is the Japanese word that translates to 'Hands-on experience' and it has become a leading buzzword for tourism in Japan over the past several years. A great way to get a deeper understanding of the culture is to dive head-first into a cultural activity and make some great memories along the way. It is fair to say that these 'experiences' started with kimono rental and although that remains as popular as ever, the industry has expanded to include some truly unique offerings that in all likelihood will become the highlight of your trip.
Index:
Tea Ceremony | Akahada Pottery | Temple Tile Making | Kyudo | Bekko Jewellery | Kimono | Tea Whisk Making | UNESCO Buggy Experience | Aizome Indigo Dyeing | Sake Brewery Tour
Tea Ceremony
The Tea Ceremony embodies the essence of Japanese culture. Known as "sado" or "chanoyu," the tea ceremony is more than just the preparation and consumption of matcha, or powdered green tea. It is a choreographed art form that emphasizes aesthetics, harmony, and the mindful appreciation of the moment. The roots of this practice trace back to the Nara period (710-794), when tea was first introduced to Japan from China. Over centuries, it evolved from a medicinal beverage consumed by monks and noblemen into a sophisticated cultural ritual, deeply influenced by Zen Buddhism. The tea ceremony represents a blend of spirituality, hospitality, and artistry, making it a profound experience for both the host and the guests.
The ceremony fosters a sense of tranquillity and mindfulness, encouraging participants to focus on the here and now. Moreover, it provides a deeper understanding of Japanese aesthetics and philosophy, particularly the concepts of "wabi-sabi" (the beauty of imperfection) and "ichigo ichie" (the idea that each encounter is unique and should be treasured). Through this immersive experience, visitors to Nara can gain insight into the soul of Japanese culture, making the tea ceremony a must-do for those seeking to explore the rich heritage of this ancient capital.
Here at NARA Visitor Center & Inn we have an authentic tea room for our visitors to get a full taste of the tea ceremony. Sessions are held every Wednesday afternoon in English by a decorated tea master. Private sessions are available upon request.
Click here for more details and the booking form.
Access:
Location: 3 Ikenocho, Nara, 630-8361
Schedule: Every Wednesday. 3:00PM & 4:15PM and by reservation
Fee: ¥2,000
Akahada Pottery Experience
Akahada ware, known in Japanese as Akahada-yaki, is a distinguished form of pottery that hails from Nara Prefecture. Originating in the late 16th century Akahada ware has a lineage deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of Japan's tea ceremony traditions.
Characterized by its creamy white clay, often tinged with a subtle red hue, and adorned with a clear glaze, Akahada ware is celebrated for its Nara-e motifs—delicate paintings under the glaze that depict scenes from fairy tales and classical literature.
Today, Akahada ware continues to be crafted by a handful of dedicated kilns in Nara, each preserving the traditional methods while also embracing contemporary designs, ensuring that this artisanal legacy endures as both a functional art form and a cherished cultural emblem.
You can experience making Akahada for yourself at Pottery Studio Akahada-yaki Masashi, just a few minutes walk from Kintetsu Nara Station. Masashi-sensei will walk you through the process of making something the size of a tea bowl from the rare clay of Mt. Akahada, leaving you with a quality, one-off project that you will be able to enjoy for years to come.
Here's our finished bowl
Book your session here.
Access:
Location: 38-7 Takama-cho, Nara, 630-8241
Schedule: Tuesday - Sunday
Fee: ¥5,500 plus world-wide shipping
Temple Tile Making Experience
According to the "Nihon Shoki," roof tiles were introduced to Japan 1,400 years ago. Several roof tile experts came from Baekje (modern day Korea) to impart their knowledge and helped complete the construction of Asuka-dera Temple, the first temple in Japan to have a tiled roof. The beginning of Japan's unique tile culture was heralded by the completion of Horyu-ji Temple in 607 using domestically produced tiles by local tile makers.
By the early Edo period (1603-1868) the use of roof tiles became more commonplace at the best of the Tokugawa shogunate for their fire prevention properties. It was during this time that Gado was established, and they have been manufacturing tiles in this area ever since, passing on traditional techniques while also developing tiles for the new era.
Onigawara are traditional Japanese roof ornamentations depicting Oni (a type of ogre) or the Karajishi (lion)—in fired clay. These figures are not merely decorative; they are believed to ward off evil spirits, safeguarding the structures they adorn, be it a house, temple, or shrine.
The creation of these unique tiles is entrusted to a master craftsman known as an Oni-shi, a title that few bear in contemporary times.
The art of crafting Onigawara is as unique as the tiles themselves. There are no blueprints or templates. Each tile springs from the imagination of the Oni-shi, making every Onigawara distinctly unique. Historically, during the Nara period, roof tiles featured a variety of motifs. However, as time progressed, the designs evolved to predominantly feature the more ominous ogre-like figures.
Gado have been manufacturing tiles in this area since the1650s, passing on traditional techniques while also developing tiles for the new era.
The workshop is short, simple and fun. You have the choice of making your own mini Onigawara roof tile from either Todai-ji, Horyu-ji, or Yakushi-ji Temples. The process is quite straightforward. First you need to prepare the clay before pressing it firmly into the mold. This requires a little strength and patience but it is essential to knead the clay into every nook and cranny to eliminate any air bubbles. The entire workshop lasts about an hour and is available for individuals and large groups.
Once that is complete, you can customize the backside to your taste then wait for the final product to be delivered to your door.
Here's our finished tile
Access:
Location: 997 Nakanokawa-cho, Nara, 630-8201
Schedule: Between 9:00 - 17:00 by appointment only
Fee: ¥2,750
Kyudo Japanese Archery
The Nara Kyudo experience is a full immersion into the Spirit of Bushido, Japan's ancient martial arts. Enter into a traditional dojo where, after being greeted with a bow ‘n bow, you’ll be dressed and kitted out in full traditional costume. Nothing fancy, but elegant, comfortable, and reassuring. You’ll learn some basic kyudo principles and then start on the road to becoming a great shot. But don’t sweat it, kyudo is not so much about hitting the target. It’s more the spirit of shin-zen-bi - truth, goodness, and beauty - and merging into the space of ‘no thought’ and ‘no desire’ or munen muso.
Once you’ve had all the time you need to find your comfort zone, you’ll enter the grand dojo hall. It’s actually a kind of indoor pavilion stage and you shoot your arrows out the front towards the targets outside.
The Kyudo Experience won a special sports tourism at the end of 2023. We are very proud to have been part of it. Click here for more details and the booking form.
Access:
Location: Rhoto Nara Martial Arts Field, 4 Chome-5-1 Horensahoyama, Nara, 630-8108
Schedule: Monday or Friday from 1PM for 1-3 people | Wednesday 9AM for 2-6 people
Fee: ¥10,000
Bekko Turtle Shell Jewelery
Bekko is the traditional Japanese craft of turtle shell work, using the shell of the hawksbill turtle to create elegant accessories and decorative items. This craft, which dates back over 1,300 years, involves a meticulous process of heating, molding, carving, and polishing to highlight the shell's natural beauty and bring out its natural translucence and unique patterning. Bekko artistry is highly valued for its aesthetic qualities, showcasing a deep, warm color palette and a distinctive marbled effect. This ancient craft is recognized for its elegance and craftsmanship which embodies the Japanese appreciation for natural beauty and sustainable art.
The Uenomiya site in Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, is a significant archaeological site that has yielded some of Japan's oldest processed turtle shell artifacts. These findings indicate the presence of sophisticated craftsmanship dating back over 1,300 years, linking the site to the ancient tradition of turtle shell craftwork, which is also represented among the treasures of the Shoso-in Repository. The Ikeda Workshop, coincidently located in the same area, has been preserving these traditional techniques for over forty years, demonstrating a deep connection to this historical craft
Ikeda Workshop is known for its skilled traditional craftsmanship, particularly for its intricate openwork carving designs on the delicate natural material of turtle shell. In recent years, the workshop has been applying these techniques to various items, and collaborating with artisans from other industries to create new works that build upon traditional techniques.
WORKSHOP: Bekko Turtle Shell Craft Experience
Create a one-of-a-kind original accessory using the offcuts from crafting.
You will be able to make a petite pendant.
*By reservation only.
The experience is limited to 4 people per session. Date and time are subject to consultation.
The cost starts from ¥5,500 (may vary depending on the material price).
*To participate, you will need to have someone with you that can speak Japanese to act as an interpreter. This is a non-negotiable condition of accepting overseas tourists to the workshop. If you would like assistance to sourcing an interpreter (paid or volunteer), please feel free to contact us: info@sarusawa.nara.jp
Access:
Location: 168 Chihara, Sakurai, Nara 633-0073
Schedule: By consultation
Fee: ¥5,500
Kimono・Yukata Rental
Perhaps the most popular cultural experience in Japan is dressing up in a traditional kimono, or yukata in the summer and touring some of the sites. Coupled with a professional photographer to document your experience, you'll end up with some beautiful memories to last a lifetime. With places like Ukimido Gazebo, Tobihino and hundreds of cute deer just around the corner, Nara is the perfect place to get that once-in-a-lifetime-shot.
There are several great places to hire a kimono in Nara. Here is a list with links to relevant websites:
Waplus Nara
Location: Nara Park Bus Terminal West Wing 2F, 76 Noborioji-cho, Nara City, Nara 630-8213
Basic Fee: ¥3,000〜
YUUSA
Location: 29-6 Nishimikado-cho, Nara, 630-8225
Basic Fee: ¥2,750〜
Fuji Kimono
Location: Kosei Building 2F, 5 Tarui-machi, Nara City, 630-8218
Basic Fee: ¥2,200〜
ENISHIYA
Location: 13 Yakushido-cho, Nara, 630-8321
Basic Fee: ¥4,290〜
Sakura Kimono Kyoto in Nara
Location: 2F(#201) 26-3 Hashimoto-cho, Nara-shi, 630-8217
Basic Fee: ¥4,000〜
Bamboo Tea Whisk Making
When in Japan and immersing yourself in all things cultural, you may come across something unique that piques your curiosity. And with the recent popularity of Japanese tea you might find yourself at a tea ceremony wondering about all the “tools of the trade” and where they all come from.
One item that stands out is the "chasen" or tea whisk. Meticulously carved from a piece of bamboo and as beautiful as it is functional, it’s used to mix the “macha” green tea powder with hot water, leaving it with a slight froth. Simultaneously admiring both the detail and the simplicity you can’t help but wonder, “Where does this come from?” Or “How on earth is this made?”
Chikurin-en
You can find the answer to these questions in the Takayama district of Ikoma City, affectionately
referred to as "Chasen no Sato" or "The Land of Bamboo Tea Whisks." Takayama is a small town surrounded by hills and fields along with preserved traditional wood buildings. Approximately 90% of the nation's bamboo tea whisks are handmade here by dedicated artisans representing the latest generation of their lineage of master craftsmen.
A beautiful facility called Chikurin-en: Takayama Bamboo Garden and Museum was established to preserve, disseminate and celebrate all that encompasses the tea ceremony and more specifically, the production of the bamboo utensils needed to cary it out. They also boast a gorgeous bamboo garden with 50 types of bamboo, including rare specimens such as Kinmeitake, Tortoiseshell bamboo, and Rakkyoyatake.
Access:
Location: 3340 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0101
Schedule: 9:00 - 17:00
Matcha Making Experience: 10:00 - 16:00
Fee: Matcha making experience ¥500 for tea only | ¥600 with confectionary
Tanimura Tango
Tango Tanimura is the head of the 20th generation of the Tanimura family, a lineage that has been producing tea whisks in Takayama for almost 500 years. The Tanimura’s are one of the only three remaining families today of the 13 tea whisk making families that were granted surnames by the Tokugawa government during the Edo Period (1603-1867).
Programs:
Demonstration only
Demonstration and tea ceremony
Tea whisk workshop with thread weaving experience
Each program includes green tea (matcha) and a small Japanese sweet.
Bookings are from 3 to 20 people per visit.
Access:
Location: 5964 Takayama-cho, Ikoma , Nara 630-0101
Schedule & Fee: Email tango.tanimura@gmail.com for details
Chikumeido Sabun
Chikumeido Sabun is one of the most honored Takayama Tea-whisk manufacturers in Japan, with traditions and expertise that stretch back over 500 years. The present head of the household is the 24th generation, Kubo Sabun, who is also the current Chairman of the Takayama Chasen Traditional Craftsmen Association. Kubo-sensei has presented his craft internationally at the Louvre and Japan Expo 2014 in Paris, in Manhattan, as well as at the United Nations Ambassador's residence in New York and "Japan House" in London.
The tea masters at the NARA Visitor Center & Inn use Chikumeido Sabun's products during our tea ceremony, so we recently paid him a visit to watch him work and learn a little more about his craft
Chikumeido Sabun do not offer work workshops, they do however have an online store where you can purchase a whole selection of their wares.
UNESCO Buggy Experience
The Waikaru Buggy Experience in Ikaruga, Nara is a new and exciting way to explore the rich history and culture of this ancient part of Nara. Ikaruga is well known for its abundant temples and shrines that date back to the 7th century. Indeed, Japan's first ever UNESCO World Heritage Site can also be found here; Buddhist Monuments in the Hōryū-ji Area was registered in 1993, it's an area you will get to explore, along with the old back streets and country roads of Ikaruga.
・The entire Waikaru Buggy Experience typically takes about 2 hours, and is available for 1-4 participants.
・You will need a valid driver's license for Japan.
・The experience costs ¥4,800 per person, plus the fee to enter each temple.
・Reservations must be made by 12 PM the previous day.
All the details for this experience can be found on our dedicated article here.
Access:
Location: 1-6-30, Horyuji Higashi, Ikoma Gun Ikaruga Cho, Nara Ken, 636-0112, Japan
Schedule: 9AM - 6PM | Closed: Wednesday
Fee: ¥4,800
Waikaru Buggy Experience Article
Aizome Indigo Dyeing
In Yamato Koriyama, known for being the goldfish farming capital of Japan, you can try some traditional Aizome Indigo Dyeing. “Hakomotokan Konya" is a beautifully restored building that was built in the Meiwa era (1764-72) and once belonged to the Okuno family. They made indigo dyeing their occupation from 1728 manufacturing celebration curtains for weddings, temple gate curtains, flags and so on.
Currently it operates as a museum showcasing art and antiques related to the area's goldfish industry. Original parts of the house are also on display and at the rear is where you can try some authentic aizome indigo dyeing for yourself.
The whole experience takes about 90 minutes and you will be left with a unique hand-made souvenir of your time here in Yamato Koriyama.
*To participate, you will need to have someone with you that can speak Japanese and who will operate as an interpreter. The interpreter will not be permitted to participate in the event outside of interpreting for the group. This is a non-negotiable condition of accepting overseas tourists to the event. If you would like assistance sourcing an interpreter (paid or volunteer), please feel free to contact us: info@sarusawa.nara.jp
Access:
Location: 19-1 Konyamachi, Yamatokoriyama, Nara 639-1148
Schedule:
Tue, Thur, Fri 1PM for up to 3 people
Wed, Sat, Sun, Nat Hols. 10AM, 1PM, 3PM for up to 5 people
Fee: Handkerchief: From ¥1,100 (including tax)
Learn more at their official website here.
Watagen Japanese Indigo Dyeing Workshop
Watagen is another fabulous Japanese indigo dyeing workshop located in Yamato Koriyama City. Here you can easily experience traditional indigo and botanical dyeing. They offer workshops tailored to all levels, from those who are new to indigo dyeing to those who are already practicing dyeing and weaving. Participation is welcome from one person to groups of 25, but it is strictly by reservation only. Watagen is a small family-run business, and while they do not have any bi-lingual staff, they are all extremely friendly and eager to welcome people from all over the world.
In these workshops, you can dye the following:
Cotton Stole
Simple cotton stoles, with two types available: one with thin yarn and one with thick yarn.
Size: 45×170 cm, cotton
¥2800 per piece
Silk Stripe Stole
These stoles have silk stripes on a cotton base, feature a delicate and cool design.
Size: 45×170 cm, silk and cotton
¥3800 per piece
Twill Weave Stole
These are stoles made from delicate cotton in a twill weave and the largest available.
Size: 80×180 cm, cotton
¥4800 per piece
Botanical Dyed Stole
Simple cotton stoles dyed with indigo and other botanical dyes such as madder and turmeric.
The blue indigo and vivid botanical dyes create a unique appearance. Due to the use of gas stoves, the number of participants is limited to about 10 people to prevent accidents.
Size: 45×170 cm, cotton
From ¥3800 per piece. Due to the continuous rise in the cost of plant dye materials, when making a reservation, please confirm the color you wish to dye (such as Indian Madder, Suou, Turmeric, etc.) in advance, and they will inform you of the participation fee.
Handkerchief
Use various tools like rubber bands, chopsticks, and film cases to dye your own unique version of these thin handkerchiefs. This is the most accessible course for experiencing indigo dyeing.
Size: 50×50 cm., cotton
¥1500 per piece
Original Items
You can also dye items that you bring in yourself such as T-shirts and fabrics, but please consult with Watagen in advance. Due to the characteristics of indigo dyeing, only items made of cotton or linen are eligible and you may need to prepare them by soaking the items in hot water to remove any starch or oils that could interfere with the dyeing process. The price for this varies depending on the weight of the item, the weaving method, and the desired dyeing technique, so please be sure to mention it when making a reservation.
It is also possible to dye silk items, but this can be quite challenging, so please consult with Watagen in advance.
Watagen's Full Day Workshop
Tapestry: Petal Dyeing
Watagen's full day workshop is engineered for those who want a more in-depth experience.
Instead of the simple tie-dye and gradient techniques, you can learn more complex and advanced dyeing techniques, including the board-clamping technique, which is a specialty of Watagen. Even those new to dyeing and weaving or not accustomed to artistic activities are welcome to participate.
This workshop lasts 5 hours, usually between 10:00 and 15:00 PM.
This dyeing represents the board-clamping technique, a specialty of Watagen. You will learn everything about dyeing a beautiful eight-petal pattern in three or four layers, including how to fold the fabric, the equipment used for dyeing, and all the pro tips for creating the best dye possible.
Fee:
Approximately 90×100 cm: ¥8,000 (tax included)
Approximately 90×160 cm: ¥10,000 (tax included)
Approximately 110×120 cm: ¥11,000 (tax included)
Access:
Location: 244 Kitakoriyama-cho, Yamatokoriyama, Nara 639-1160
Email: watagen@m3.kcn.ne.jp
Fee: Please be aware that prices can fluctuate depending on the cost of raw materials. Please refer to their website for up-to-date prices.
Sake Brewery Tour
As you may already be aware, the invention and development of sake in Nara is deeply intertwined with Japan's cultural and religious heritage making a visit to a sake brewery here all the more special. Sake brewery tours offer a profound insight into the meticulous art of sake production, a craft honed with precision and passion by the master brewers known as "toji." These artisans dedicate their lives to perfecting a process that transforms simple ingredients—rice, water, yeast, and koji—into the refined flavors of premium sake.
This hands-on exposure to the brewing process, combined with the often centries old architecture and the olfactory delights of fermenting sake offers a unique cultural immersion that goes beyond mere tasting, providing a tangible connection to ancient sake brewing traditions. Most breweries also have a small shop, including bottles of the sake you had during the tasting session, providing a perfect souvenir from a memorable visit. This blend of sensory pleasure, architectural beauty, and hands-on learning makes a sake brewery tour in Nara an enriching cultural experience.
Ueda Shuzo
Nestled in the heart of Mount Ikoma, Ueda Shuzo Sake Brewery boasts a rich heritage that spans over four centuries, having been established in 1558. This family-run brewery has meticulously harnessed the natural bounty of Ikoma City, utilizing its acclaimed groundwater and locally produced rice to craft sake of unparalleled quality. The brewery's dedication to tradition, coupled with a forward-looking embrace of innovation, has seen it achieve high acclaim, including the use of pesticide-free organic rice in some recent offerings.
Ueda Shuzo extends a warm invitation to enthusiasts and curious visitors alike to explore the intricacies of sake brewing through its year-round tours. The brewery's goal is to provide an experience that allows participants to feel closer to sake. This 1 hour tour offers a deep dive into the brewery's storied history and its meticulous brewing process, and includes the opportunity to brand your own original sake by affixing your own hand drawn label to the bottle! The tour culminates in a tasting session where guests can savor the nuanced flavors of Ueda Shuzo's sake.
To ensure a personalized experience, tours require prior reservation and are available from 10AM to 5PM, excluding Sundays and public holidays
Access:
Location: 866-1 Ichibu-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0222
Schedule: 10:00 - 17:00 by reservation only.
Tours are not available on Sundays and Public Holidays
Fee: ¥2,200 (including tax)
Umenoyado Shuzo
Umenoyado Shuzo, established in 1893 at the base of Mount Katsuragi, has been a custodian of high-quality, small-batch sake for over 130 years. At their new state-of-the-art facility, they combine traditional brewing methods with modern innovations to push the boundaries of sake production and offer visitors a fully immersive tour, unique in the field.
Under the leadership of fifth-generation CEO Kayo Yoshida, Umenoyado has embraced a philosophy of "new culture of Sake," focusing on creating innovative products while maintaining the integrity of traditional sake brewing. Their vision extends beyond traditional markets, aiming to introduce sake to global audiences and create a new sake culture that resonates worldwide, maintaining traditions while evolving with its community and consumers
Their new facility was designed with sake brewery tours in mind. You start off in their stylish shop then are led through a long corridor with large scale illustrations on the left hand side wall and large windows on the right that offer a comprehensive look into the brewing process.
It's a modern fresh take on the traditional sake brewery tour, fully in keeping with the progressive vision of the company as a whole.
Access:
Location: 27-1 Teraguchi, Katsuragi, Nara 639-2135
Schedule: 10:30 & 14:30 on days when the brewery is open.
The 45 minute tours are for up to 15 people and prior reservation is required.
Fee: ¥1,000 per person with tasting and a small gift.
Choryo Shuzo
Choryo Shuzo is surrounded by cultural landmarks such as Omiwa Jinja Shrine, Asuka-dera Temple, and UNESCO World Heritage-listed Horyu-ji Temple. Choryo Shuzo embraces the philosophy of "Shodo Mukyukyoku," which translates to the endless pursuit of perfection in sake brewing. Their flagship product is "Yoshinosugi no Tarusake," Japan's first bottled cedar barrel sake. Introduced in 1964, this sake captures the essence of traditional cedar barrel aging, offering a perfect balance of taste and aroma that has remained consistent for over half a century.
The brewery's meticulous selection of cedar from Yoshino, Nara Prefecture, ensures the highest quality, enhancing the clarity and flavor profile of their tarusake. In addition to sake, Choryo Shuzo has ventured into craft beer production, offering a diverse lineup including Saison, IPA, Lager, and limited brews. Their beers are crafted with the same dedication to quality, incorporating local ingredients like Nara Prefecture rice, and are designed to leave a lasting impression, encouraging consumers to revisit and relish the flavors repeatedly.Choryo Shuzo's commitment to tradition, coupled with its innovative approach in both sake and beer production, makes it a unique and revered institution in Japan's brewing landscape.
Choryo Brew Park
Choryo Brew Park opened in March 2022 and serves as a place to enjoy everything Choryo Shuzo brews, from traditional sake to modern craft beer. In a building designed complement traditional architecture, the park offers a tap-room, shop corner, tasting space and spacious artificial lawn.
The Choryo Brew Park is open on weekends and public holidays from 11:00 - 17:00 (last order 16:30) and during some special events, it is possible to tour the brewery. On weekdays only the lawn area is open but no admission fee is required. The taproom menu changes each week, with craft beer tasting sets, seasonal specialty menus, snacks and more. Drinks and food on business days are served cash-on-delivery.
Access:
Location: 7-1 Minami, Koryo, Kitakatsuragi District, Nara 635-0818
Schedule: Weekends & holidays 11:00 - 17:00 (last order 16:30)
Fee: Free entrance
Index:
Tea Ceremony | Akahada Pottery | Temple Tile Making | Kyudo | Bekko Jewellery | Kimono | Tea Whisk Making | UNESCO Buggy Experience | Aizome Indigo Dyeing | Sake Brewery Tour
Thank you for reading Unique Cultural Experiences in Nara. If you have any questions about the information published here or need help making a booking, please get in touch.
Author: NARA Visitor Center & Inn
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