Embrace the timeless art of Japanese craftsmanship on this immersive Echizen Washi Village tour. Guided by an expert, you’ll explore the centuries-old tradition of Echizen Washi paper-making and create your own uchiwa fan. This hands-on experience not only allows you to appreciate the intricate techniques but also offers a unique culture. With personalized attention and flexible cancellation options, this tour promises a cherished memory you’ll want to explore further.
Good To Know
- Opportunity to craft traditional Echizen Washi paper and create a handmade Uchiwa fan in Echizen Washi Village, Fukui Prefecture.
- English-speaking guide provided throughout the tour, which includes Washi-making and Uchiwa fan-making workshops.
- Tour is not wheelchair accessible, and a certain level of physical fitness is required.
- Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the start, with a reserve now, pay later option.
- Participants can explore the historic RYOZO paper mill and learn about the cultural significance of Washi in Japanese heritage.
Tour Overview
The tour offers the opportunity to craft Echizen Washi, a traditional Japanese paper, and create a handmade Uchiwa fan.
Located in the Echizen Washi Village in Fukui Prefecture, the experience includes making Echizen Washi and an Uchiwa-making workshop. An English-speaking guide is provided throughout the tour.
The meeting point is at the RYOZO paper mill, where the activity ends. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.
Most travelers can participate, though a certain level of physical fitness is required. Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
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Meeting and Pickup Information
The meeting point for the Washi Fan Making Tour is the RYOZO paper mill, located at 10-1 Ōtakichō, Echizen, Fukui 915-0234, Japan.
The car park is on the left, and the paper mill is right in front. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.
To help participants find the location, the overview provides the following details:
- Car park is on the left
- Ryozo Yanase paper mill is in front
- Address: 10-1 Ōtakichō, Echizen, Fukui 915-0234, Japan
- Public transport is available nearby
- Meeting point and end point are the same
Participation Requirements
What’re the participation requirements for the Washi Fan Making Tour?
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility issues may have difficulty. Infants must sit on laps during the activities.
Most travelers can participate, but the tour requires a certain level of physical fitness. The experience is a private tour, so only your group will be participating. This allows guests to receive personalized attention from the English-speaking guide throughout the day.
Booking and Cancellation Policy
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Washi Fan Making Tour.
Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties. This provides flexibility in their travel plans.
The tour offers a reserve now, pay later option, allowing guests to secure their spot while staying adaptable. The pricing starts from $201.55 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Public transportation is available near the meeting point, making the tour accessible. Guests can check availability and select their preferred time slot to participate in this unique cultural experience.
Pricing and Availability
How much does the Washi Fan Making Tour cost, and when is it available? The tour costs $201.55 per person.
Travelers can book the tour with the lowest price guarantee. The tour is available for the public, with public transport options nearby.
Participants can check the availability and select their preferred time slot for the experience. The tour package includes handcrafted Echizen Washi and an Uchiwa-making workshop, along with an English-speaking guide.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, allowing for flexibility. The Washi Fan Making Tour offers a unique cultural experience at a reasonable price.
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Handcrafted Echizen Washi: An Exquisite Experience
At the heart of the Washi Fan Making Tour lies the exquisite craft of Echizen Washi, a centuries-old tradition rooted in the Fukui Prefecture.
Participants will have the opportunity to experience the intricate process of creating this handmade Japanese paper, from:
- Witnessing the specialized techniques used to extract and process the raw materials
- Observing the skilled craftsmanship required to meticulously form each sheet
- Feeling the delicate texture and weight of the finished product
- Appreciating the subtle variations in color and pattern inherent to the handmade process
- Leaving with a cherished piece of Echizen Washi to take home as a memento of this extraordinary experience.
Uchiwa-Making Workshop: Crafting Beauty With Tradition
As part of the Washi Fan Making Tour, participants can enjoy the captivating art of Uchiwa fan-making.
In a hands-on workshop, they’ll learn the traditional techniques used to craft these iconic Japanese fans. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, guests will select materials, shape the bamboo frame, and apply colorful washi paper.
By the end, they’ll have a beautifully handmade Uchiwa fan to take home – a unique memento of their cultural experience.
This workshop offers a chance to appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship and rich heritage behind these elegant fan designs.
Exploring the Echizen Washi Village: A Cultural Immersion
Beyond the captivating Uchiwa fan-making workshop, the Washi Fan Making Tour invites participants to enjoy the cultural richness of the Echizen Washi Village.
This unique experience allows visitors to discover the intricate traditional craft of Echizen Washi paper-making.
Guests will:
- Explore the historic RYOZO paper mill, witnessing the time-honored techniques used to create this delicate handmade paper.
- Gain insight into the sustainable forestry practices that support the Washi industry.
- Learn about the cultural significance of Washi in Japanese heritage.
- Appreciate the artistry and patience required to craft each Washi sheet.
- Delight in the opportunity to create their own personalized Washi keepsakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Materials Are Used in the Washi and Uchiwa Fan Making?
The washi paper is made from the inner bark of mulberry trees, while the uchiwa fans are crafted using bamboo ribs and paper. These traditional materials give the handmade products their unique character and quality.
How Long Does the Entire Tour Experience Typically Last?
The entire tour experience typically lasts around 2-3 hours. Participants can expect to spend time crafting handmade Echizen washi paper and making traditional uchiwa fans, with an English-speaking guide present throughout the activity.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum Age Requirements for Participation?
The tour is suitable for most travelers, though infants must sit on laps. There are no age restrictions or minimum age requirements for participation. The tour can accommodate a wide range of participants.
Can Participants Keep the Washi and Uchiwa Fan They Create During the Workshops?
Participants can keep the handcrafted Echizen washi and uchiwa fan they make during the workshops. The experience fee includes the products they create which they can take home as souvenirs.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for Group Bookings?
Yes, the tour offers group discounts. For bookings of 3 or more participants, there’s a 10% discount per person. The more people in your group, the more you’ll save on the Craft Washi and Uchiwa Fan Making tour.
The Sum Up
The Craft Washi and Uchiwa Fan Making Tour at Echizen Washi Village offers a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich craftsmanship traditions. Participants can create their own delicate washi paper and a beautifully crafted uchiwa fan, guided by an expert. This hands-on experience not only allows visitors to appreciate the intricate techniques but also provides a cherished cultural memory to take home.
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