Kawashiri Craftsmens Tour Discover Sake Blades and Sweets

Kumamoto , Japan

Kawashiri Craftsmens Tour Discover Sake Blades and Sweets

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About this experience

Kawashiri, a town of artisans with a history dating back to the Edo period, offers a unique experience that immerses visitors in traditional craftsmanship and local culture. Once an important hub for the Kumamoto Domain, Kawashiri was renowned for its high-quality knives, woodworking, lacquerware, and pottery. The town’s artisans continue to pass down these skills through generations.

The tour also provides the opportunity to taste Kumamoto’s renowned sake, including "Akazake," a sake unique to the region, along with other local varieties. Enjoy the rich flavors while learning about the brewing process, making it a perfect introduction to Kumamoto’s local culture.

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Kawashiri’s rich history, culture, and craftsmanship. Although still a hidden gem for many international travelers, Kawashiri holds a wealth of cultural significance waiting to be discovered. Join us and create lasting memories of Kumamoto’s fascinating and lesser-known attractions.

Available options

Kawashiri Craftsmens Tour Discover Sake Blades and Sweets

What's included

Admission Fee for the Kawashiri Rice Warehouse of the Kumamoto Domain

Guide Fee

Detailed itinerary

Kawashiri has flourished as a “town of artisans” since the Edo period, attracting many workshops and craftsmen. The area was particularly known for blade manufacturing, with over 40 knife shops at its peak, producing high-quality knives and farming tools. Additionally, traditional crafts such as woodworking, lacquerware, confectionery, and sake brewing thrived, making Kawashiri an important commercial hub for the Kumamoto domain. Even today, the craftsmanship is preserved, and the legacy of Kawashiri blades and Kumamoto crafts continues to live on.
Here, you can learn about Kawashiri’s history as a town of artisans, admire the profound works of Kumamoto’s craftsmen, and observe the skilled techniques of Kawashiri blade artisans. You can also purchase these exquisite crafts, so don’t miss the chance to take home a masterpiece.

Kawashiri Public Hall is a historic wooden building located in Kawashiri, Kumamoto. Built in the early 20th century, it is still used today as a venue for community gatherings and cultural events. Inside, it features a spacious 80-tatami hall and two Japanese-style rooms, preserving the characteristics of traditional Japanese architecture. It is also a symbol of Kawashiri’s rich history and craftsmanship, allowing visitors to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of the past.

The Kawashiri Rice Warehouse of the Kumamoto Domain was built during the Edo period to store rice collected as tax. Kawashiri was an important economic hub for the Kumamoto Domain, where rice was gathered and managed. This historic warehouse still stands today and has been designated as a national historic site. In 2023, it was opened to the public as a museum, showcasing the history of Kawashiri and the rice trade. Visiting this site offers a glimpse into how rice played a key role in Japan’s economy and daily life during the Edo period. Additionally, the museum has interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the atmosphere of that time, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Tōhi Taishō-gura is a facility of Zuiyo Co., one of Kumamoto’s leading sake manufacturers, offering local specialties such as Akazake and authentic shochu. Here, you can taste and purchase exclusive sake, as well as explore exhibits on Akazake, a unique Kumamoto specialty, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region’s rich sake culture.

While enjoying tastings, you can also learn about the history and appreciation of Japanese sake through detailed explanations of various types. Small bottles are available, making it a great place for souvenir shopping.

Tenmeido is a long-established confectionery shop with a proud 240-year history, founded during the Edo period. Originally starting as a candy-making business, it now produces and sells both traditional Japanese sweets and Western-style confections. While preserving traditional techniques, the shop also offers treats suited to modern tastes, making it a beloved spot for locals. Inside, visitors can enjoy fresh and baked sweets paired with matcha, as well as take a relaxing break in a nostalgic atmosphere. Be sure to savor the unique flavors that only a long-standing shop like Tenmeido can offer.※Drinks and sweets are not included in the plan, so they must be paid separately.

What's not included

Food and drink costs at Tenmeido are separate.

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet in front of the local line ticket gate at Kumamoto Station. Your guide will be waiting with a tour sign.

About Kumamoto

Kumamoto is a vibrant city in Kyushu, Japan, known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and the iconic Kumamoto Castle. The city offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban living, with lush gardens, hot springs, and a thriving food scene. Its warm hospitality and diverse attractions make it a must-visit destination in Japan.

Top Attractions

Kumamoto Castle

Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan's most famous castles, known for its impressive stone walls and historical significance. The castle played a crucial role in Japan's feudal history and is a symbol of the city.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Moderate (500-1,000 JPY)

Suizenji Jojuen Garden

Suizenji Jojuen Garden is a beautiful Japanese landscape garden that features a miniature representation of Mount Fuji and other famous landmarks. The garden is known for its serene atmosphere and traditional design.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget (400 JPY)

Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art

The Kumamoto Prefectural Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of artworks, including traditional Japanese art and contemporary pieces. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (500-1,000 JPY)

Mount Aso

Mount Aso is one of Japan's most famous active volcanoes and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a cable car to the crater's edge and explore the volcanic area.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate (1,000-2,000 JPY)

Kurokawa Onsen

Kurokawa Onsen is a traditional hot spring resort nestled in the mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture. The village offers a variety of public baths, private baths, and ryokan (traditional inns) for visitors to relax and unwind.

Relaxation Half day to overnight Moderate to Expensive (2,000-5,000 JPY for baths, higher for ryokan stays)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kumamoto Ramen

A local specialty, Kumamoto Ramen features a rich, pork-based broth with thin noodles, topped with chashu (braised pork), egg, and green onions. The broth is known for its creamy texture and savory flavor.

Dinner Contains pork and eggs, vegetarian and vegan options available in some restaurants

Basashi (Horse Sashimi)

A delicacy in Kumamoto, Basashi is thinly sliced raw horse meat, often served with soy sauce and grated ginger. It is known for its tender texture and slightly sweet flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Contains raw horse meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Kumamoto Karashi Renkon (Spicy Lotus Root)

A popular side dish, Kumamoto Karashi Renkon is lotus root slices stuffed with a spicy mustard mixture. The dish is known for its unique texture and bold flavor.

Side Dish Vegetarian and vegan-friendly

Kumamoto Onigiri

A local variation of the classic Japanese rice ball, Kumamoto Onigiri is often filled with savory ingredients like pickled plum, salmon, or tuna mayo. It is a convenient and tasty snack.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Aso Exploring Takachiho Gorge Canyoning in Kurokawa Onsen Soaking in hot springs Visiting Suizenji Jojuen Garden Exploring Kumamoto Castle Visiting Shinto shrines and temples Experiencing traditional tea ceremonies

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

Spring offers pleasant weather with cherry blossoms in full bloom, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited), Korean (limited), Chinese (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kumamoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should still take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi companies and agree on fares before starting the journey

Getting there

By air

Kumamoto Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Kumamoto Station

By bus

Kumamoto Station Bus Terminal, Kumamoto City Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is convenient and easy to use, with frequent services. It's a great way to get around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Chuo Ward Nishi Ward Higashi Ward Minami Ward

Day trips

Mount Aso

100 km from Kumamoto • Full day

Mount Aso is one of Japan's most famous active volcanoes, offering stunning views and unique geological features. Visitors can take a cable car to the crater's edge and explore the volcanic area.

Kurokawa Onsen

80 km from Kumamoto • Half day to overnight

Takachiho Gorge

120 km from Kumamoto • Full day

Takachiho Gorge is a stunning natural landmark known for its lush forests, clear streams, and traditional boat tours. The gorge is also home to several Shinto shrines and is an important cultural site.

Festivals

Kumamoto Castle Festival • April Yatai (Food Stall) Festival • November Kumamoto Fireworks Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit Kumamoto Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the castle in the morning light
Try local specialties like Kumamoto Ramen and Basashi (horse sashimi) at local restaurants and food stalls
Explore the city's parks and gardens, such as Suizenji Jojuen Garden, for a peaceful and scenic experience
Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Mount Aso, Kurokawa Onsen, and Takachiho Gorge for a diverse and memorable experience
Experience traditional Japanese culture by participating in a tea ceremony, visiting a temple, or staying in a ryokan (traditional inn)