Attracxi Step into Tradition: Craft, Culture, and Hot Springs in Naruko (Miyagi)

Highlights

Meet the Masters – Visit local lacquerware and kokeshi artisans, and hear their personal stories and passion.

Hands-on Crafting – Try maki-e lacquer design on a bamboo straw and paint your own kokeshi doll to take home.

Culture & Relaxation – Enjoy a local lunch served in lacquerware and take a cultural walk through the historic hot spring town.

Naruko, one of Japan’s leading hot spring towns, is also home to rich traditional crafts such as lacquerware and kokeshi dolls.

This special program takes you into the world of local artisans and offers hands-on cultural experiences.

First, you will visit a lacquerware workshop, where you can hear directly from the craftsman about his dedication and techniques. You will then try a hands-on activity: decorating a bamboo straw coated with lacquer using the traditional maki-e gold powder design technique. After that, enjoy a delicious lunch using local ingredients beautifully served in lacquerware.

In the afternoon, join a guided walk through the hot spring town. Along the way, you will visit a kokeshi doll studio, meet the craftsman, and try your own painting on a doll to take home as a personal souvenir. This is a journey that connects hot springs, craftsmanship, and local food culture in one unique experience.

TOUR COURSE

10:30

Depart from Sendai Station by private vehicle and reach the first destination in about two hours.

11:00

Begin a lacquerware workshop with the local artisan.

Learn about the techniques and traditions of the craft before you have the chance to decorate your own lacquered bamboo straw with your favourite design.

12:00

After all that creativity, you’ll be in need of a feed!

Sit down to a delicious lunch of local Japanese cuisine, served in beautiful lacquer-ware bowls and dishes.

*Vegetarian menu is available upon request!

13:30

Stroll through the hot spring town, visit a kokeshi doll studio & painting experience

Take a leisurely stroll through Naruko’s charming hot spring town, where traditional inns and nostalgic streets create a unique atmosphere. Along the way, visit a kokeshi doll studio, meet the craftsman, and join a hands-on painting experience to create your very own kokeshi doll as a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

15:15: Optional hot spring walk or free time in the onsen town

Enjoy an optional “onsen walk,” exploring hidden footbaths and small hot spring spots scattered throughout the town, or simply relax with free time to browse local shops and soak in the relaxing atmosphere of this historic hot spring village.

17：30: Arrive at Sendai Station – Tour Ends

TOUR PLAN

Are you looking for a ‘deeper’ kind of travel?

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