Craft Washi and Uchiwa Fan Making Echizen Washi Village Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Tour Attractions:
Echizen Washi boasts 1,500 years of history and unparalleled quality. This experience combines traditional craftsmanship with modern creativity, offering a comprehensive programme of activities that will allow you to delve into the history, techniques, and culture of Echizen Washi in just a few hours. You will have the opportunity to make washi paper by hand and craft your own washi uchiwa (Japanese paper fans). The finished paper and fans will be yours to take home as unique and memorable keepsakes. This three-hour experience encapsulates all the charm and tradition of Echizen Washi Paper.
Outline of the Echizen Washi Experience Tour:
This immersive three-hour tour lets you explore the rich history and exceptional craftsmanship of washi paper. Set in Echizen, a region with 1,500 years of washi-making heritage, you’ll experience the living traditions of this remarkable craft by creating handmade washi in one of Japan’s most renowned production areas.
Available options
Craft Washi and Uchiwa Fan Making Echizen Washi Village Tour
What's included
Uchiwa-making experience (workshop fee, products can be taken home).
English-speaking guide
Echizen Washi made by hand (experience fee, products to take home).
Tourist Guide
Detailed itinerary
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1. Handmade washi experience at the Ryozo Yanase Paper Mills
Visitors can learn about the craftsmanship of Echizen washi up close and personal, and actually experience handmade washi making.
The experience, led by the craftsmen of Ryozo Yanase Paper Mills, is a valuable opportunity to experience the ‘gentleness’, ‘rigour’ and ‘stubbornness’ of washi paper.
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2. making Japanese paper fans
Using the Japanese paper from your experience, you can make your own original bamboo fan.
Light and strong, the bamboo-boned uchiwa are highly practical and make great souvenirs.
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3. walking in the town of washi and visiting shrines
Visit Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine, which tell the history of Echizen washi.
These shrines, where the goddess of papermaking is worshipped, are deeply connected with the origins of washi. Visitors can get a taste of the culture while strolling through the historic town.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Public transport available nearby.
Requires a certain level of physical fitness.
Meeting point
The car park is on the left, with the Ryozo Yanase paper mill in front of you.
Please meet at the car park.
About Fukui Prefecture
Fukui Prefecture is a hidden gem in the Chubu region of Japan, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and unique cultural heritage. It's home to some of the country's most significant dinosaur fossils, beautiful coastlines, and traditional crafts like Echizen lacquerware and Sabaika pottery.
Top Attractions
Fukui Castle Ruins
The ruins of Fukui Castle offer a glimpse into the region's feudal history. The castle was built in the 17th century and played a significant role in the area's development.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (museum may have a small fee)
Dinosaur Museum (Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum)
This world-class museum showcases Fukui's rich dinosaur fossils, including the Fukuiraptor and Fukuisaurus. It's a must-visit for dinosaur enthusiasts and families.
Museum
2-3 hours
¥800-¥1,200
Eihei-ji Temple
One of the two main temples of the Soto School of Zen Buddhism, Eihei-ji is a serene and spiritual place. The temple complex is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers a peaceful retreat.
Religious
2-3 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Maruoka Castle
Maruoka Castle is one of Japan's few remaining original castles. It's known for its unique architecture and beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥400
Tojinbo Cliffs
Tojinbo Cliffs are a stunning geological formation along the Sea of Japan. The basalt columns and rugged coastline offer breathtaking views and are a popular spot for photography and hiking.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Echizen Crab
Fukui is famous for its Echizen crabs, particularly the snow crab and horsehair crab. They are typically served steamed or in hot pot dishes.
Main course
Contains shellfish
Fukui Ramen
A local ramen variety with a rich, soy-based broth and thin noodles. It's often topped with pork, green onions, and a soft-boiled egg.
Main course
Vegetarian options available
Echizen Soba
Buckwheat noodles served cold with a dipping sauce or in a hot broth. A popular dish in the Echizen region.
Main course
Gluten-free options available
Fukui Pickles
A variety of pickled vegetables, including radish, eggplant, and cucumber. They are a staple in Fukui's cuisine and often served as a side dish.
Side dish
Vegan-friendly
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Skiing and snowboarding in winter
Exploring the Tojinbo Cliffs
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Picnicking in parks
Strolling through traditional gardens
Visiting temples and shrines
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It's the best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
10°C to 25°C
50°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
GMT+9
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Fukui is a very safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is relatively uncommon. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and ticket sellers
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- Komatsu Airport • 25 km from central Fukui
By train
Fukui Station
By bus
Fukui Station Bus Terminal, Echizen Railway Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Fukui.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Central Fukui
Echizen
Katsuyama
Sakai
Day trips
Kanazawa
60 km from central Fukui • Full day
Kanazawa is a vibrant city known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, art museums, and traditional crafts. It's a great day trip from Fukui for those interested in history, culture, and architecture.
Shirakawa-go and Gokayama
100 km from central Fukui • Full day or overnight
Shirakawa-go and Gokayama are UNESCO World Heritage Sites famous for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. These picturesque villages offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life and are a popular day trip from Fukui.
Kurobe Gorge
80 km from central Fukui • Full day
Kurobe Gorge is a stunning natural attraction known for its breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and the Kurobe Gorge Railway. It's a great day trip for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Festivals
Echizen Kaga Kaikan Matsuri • April
Fukui Lantern Festival • August
Echizen Washi (Paper) Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum for a unique and educational experience, especially if traveling with children
- Try Echizen crab, a local delicacy, at one of the many specialty restaurants in the region
- Explore the traditional crafts of Echizen, such as lacquerware and pottery, by visiting workshops and demonstrations
- Experience a traditional tea ceremony or Zen meditation session at a local temple for a spiritual and cultural experience
- Visit the Tojinbo Cliffs for stunning coastal views and photography opportunities, but be cautious near the edges
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
