Test Your Artisanal Skills by Making an Original Echizen Lacquerware Spoon

Learn woodworking and lacquerware painting at traditional workshops

The Echizen area of Fukui Prefecture is responsible for most of Japan’s commercial lacquerware, made by craftsmen highly skilled in each stage of production. Now you can experience two of the important stages in making your own original wooden spoon under the tutelage of these craftsmen, a unique souvenir that you will always treasure.

After watching craftsmen at the Hacoa woodworking factory, the first stop, you will be able to try your hand at polishing your own wooden spoon, creating the shape and texture that will make it an original item. You’ll then take your spoon with you on a short walk to lacquerware studio Shitsurindo. There, you’ll be taught about the traditional lacquering process, and—in a workshop that is normally off limits—see the tools and lacquer used by the craftsmen. Finally, you’ll apply your choice of colored lacquer to your spoon, watching as it becomes a beautiful utensil for daily life. As the lacquer takes several days to dry, the spoon will be directly shipped to your home. (International shipments may take up to two months.)

Access:  From Tokyo Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Fukui Station (three hours), followed by the Hapi Line Fukui to Sabae Station (15 minutes). From there, take a bus to Uｒushi no Sato Kaikan (30 minutes). The tour meeting site is a short walk from the bus stop.
From Kyoto Station, take the Thunderbird Line to Tsuruga Station (one hour), followed by the Hapi Line Fukui train to Sabae Station. From Sabae Station to the Hacoa Factory is a 20-minute car ride.

Woodworking and Lacquer Workshop Experience（General Incorporated Association SOE）