Private Aomori Handicraft Making Experience Tour

Aomori Prefecture , Japan

Private Aomori Handicraft Making Experience Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience traditional craft making with Guide.
Tsugaru is the eastern half of Aomori Prefecture.
In this tour you can experience three kinds of local handicrafts in Tsugaru.
We visit Kuroishi Town, famous for its old Komise Street (traditional shopping arcade street), and museums nearby.

1. Making a Paper lantern
Using the color-full Japanese paper from the local summer festival float, you can make your own design lantern by placing the paper over a prepared wooden flame.

2.Kokeshi doll or handicraft painting experience
Kokeshi doll is a local souvenir of some hot spring resorts in the northeastern region of Japan.
You can experience painting Kokeshi doll face and body.
Or you can choose other handicrafts such as tops, matryoshka or some local toys.

3.Lacquerware chopstick making
Tsugaru lacquerware is a local traditional lacquerware dating back to the samurai period.
You can experience the grinding step of chopstick making.
Make your own individual chopsticks for your daily life.

Available options

From Aomori Station

Pickup included

What's included

Guide's Private car

Detailed itinerary

Starting from JR Aomori station.

In this shop you can enjoy lantern making with colourful Japanese paper used for summer festival. (Includes cost of small lantern making)
After completion, you can take a memorable photo with your lantern.

Komise Street is an old Japanese arcade street.
There are two Japanese sake breweries, a local handicraft experience shop, an old merchant's house, a former public bath house now used as a local community centre, and some restaurants.

Museum of Tsugaru-style kokeshi dolls.
This museum also houses various styles of kokeshi dolls from the Tohoku region.
You will be amazed by the largest kokeshi doll made from a large tree trunk.
How about buying a cute kokeshi doll of your own choice for your unforgettable souvenir.

Here you can enjoy doll painting or handicraft painting. (Cost included)
Choose which one you would like to try and concentrate on painting cute traditional local toys from Aomori.

This building houses museums and shops of traditional local handicrafts.
There is also a souvenir shop and a restaurant.
You can enjoy foot bath in natural hot spring foot bath in the centre area. (one towel costs 200-300 JPY)

At Tsugaru Lacquerware Shop, you can experience lacquer chopstick grinding. (Experience fee is included)
In Japan, each chopstick is unique.
Make your own chopsticks for an unforgettable souvenir.

End of tour

What's not included

Lunch

Paper lantern making 3,800 JPY/person

Kokeshi doll painting 1,500 JPY/person

Lacquer ware chop sticks experience 2,000 JPY/person

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The Tourism Information Center Aomori City

About Aomori Prefecture

Aomori Prefecture, located in the northernmost part of Japan's main island Honshu, is known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine. It's home to the famous Nebuta Matsuri, beautiful apple orchards, and the iconic Shirakami-Sanchi mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Top Attractions

Shirakami-Sanchi

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakami-Sanchi is a pristine mountain range known for its ancient beech forests and rich biodiversity. It's a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.

Nature Full day to overnight Free (some trails and facilities may have fees)

Aomori Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse

This museum is dedicated to the famous Aomori Nebuta Festival, showcasing the history and artistry of the festival's iconic floats. Visitors can see large-scale Nebuta floats and even try making their own.

Museum 2-3 hours Adults: ¥800, Children: ¥400

Sannai-Maruyama Site

A large archaeological site dating back to the Jomon period, Sannai-Maruyama is one of the most important historical sites in Japan. Visitors can explore reconstructed pit dwellings and learn about the Jomon culture.

Historical 2-3 hours Adults: ¥500, Children: ¥250

Osorezan

A sacred mountain and one of Japan's three most important Buddhist sites, Osorezan is believed to be a gateway to the afterlife. The area is known for its eerie landscapes and hot springs.

Religious Full day Free (some facilities may have fees)

Lake Towada

A beautiful crater lake formed by a volcanic eruption, Lake Towada is known for its clear blue waters and stunning natural surroundings. It's a popular destination for hiking, boating, and photography.

Nature Full day Free (some activities and facilities may have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Ika no Shiokara

A traditional dish made from fermented squid guts, seasoned with salt and sometimes chili. It's a popular local delicacy and a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Snack Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans, contains allergens (fish, shellfish).

Aomori Ramen

A local ramen variety featuring a rich, soy-based broth, thin noodles, and toppings like chashu pork, menma (fermented bamboo shoots), and green onions. It's a hearty and comforting dish perfect for cold weather.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan upon request, but traditional recipes contain meat and seafood.

Japonica Rice

A short-grain rice variety grown in Aomori, known for its excellent quality and sweet, sticky texture. It's a staple in Japanese cuisine and is used in a wide range of dishes, from simple rice bowls to elaborate sushi.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Naturally gluten-free, suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Aomori Apples

Aomori is famous for its high-quality apples, which are sweet, crisp, and juicy. They are enjoyed fresh, in desserts, or as apple juice and cider.

Snack/Dessert Naturally gluten-free, suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Shirakami-Sanchi Skiing and snowboarding in the winter Mountain biking and cycling Onsen (hot spring) visits Apple picking (seasonal) Boating on Lake Towada Visiting historical sites and museums Participating in local festivals

Best Time to Visit

September to November

Autumn is the best time to visit Aomori for pleasant weather, vibrant fall foliage, and the famous Aomori Nebuta Festival in August. The snow has melted, making it easier to explore the outdoors.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (Japan Standard Time, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Aomori is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a peaceful atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis and tour operators to avoid scams and ensure safety.
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Aomori Airport • 15 km from Aomori city center

By train

Aomori Station

By bus

Aomori Station Bus Terminal, Aomori Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Aomori. They are reliable and cover most of the prefecture, but schedules may be limited in rural areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Aomori City Hirosaki Towada Shimokita Peninsula

Day trips

Shirakami-Sanchi

About 100 km from Aomori City • Full day to overnight

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Shirakami-Sanchi is a pristine mountain range known for its ancient beech forests and rich biodiversity. It's a popular destination for hiking and nature lovers.

Hirosaki

About 40 km from Aomori City • Half day to full day

A charming city with a rich samurai history, Hirosaki is known for its beautiful castle, apple orchards, and the famous Hirosaki Neputa Festival.

Lake Towada

About 60 km from Aomori City • Full day

Festivals

Aomori Nebuta Festival • Early August (2nd - 7th) Hirosaki Neputa Festival • Early August (1st - 7th) Aomori Winter Festival • February (varies by year)

Pro tips

Visit during the autumn foliage season for stunning fall colors and pleasant weather.
Try local specialties, such as Aomori ramen, ika no shiokara, and apple-themed dishes and desserts.
Explore the prefecture's natural beauty, from the ancient beech forests of Shirakami-Sanchi to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Towada.
Participate in local festivals and events, such as the Aomori Nebuta Festival and the Hirosaki Neputa Festival, for a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.
Stay in a traditional ryokan for a unique and authentic experience, complete with kaiseki meals, private onsen, and beautiful gardens.