A Night of Cherry Blossoms & Kishu Lacquerware
A Night of Cherry Blossoms & Kishu Lacquerware
Experience History & Craftsmanship with a Traditional Artisan at Wakayama Castle
Create Your Own Authentic "MY Lacquered Bowl" for Daily Use
Under the blooming cherry blossoms, take part in an exclusive lacquerware crafting experience at Wakayama Castle's Tenshukaku (Main Keep) at Night, guided by a certified traditional artisan. Kishu lacquerware, made from natural materials, is both lightweight and highly durable—truly a lifelong treasure. This hands-on experience is a rare opportunity to learn traditional techniques passed down for generations and help preserve Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to learn from Kimiko Tanioka, the only female traditional artisan certified in the Comprehensive Lacquerware category in Japan. Participants will experience the deep artistry of Kishu lacquerware through the authentic "Wipe-Lacquer" technique using a rare, domestically sourced zelkova wood lidded bowl.
Create your own handcrafted, authentic Kishu lacquerware under the guidance of a master artisan. This will be a lifelong keepsake from your unforgettable night at Wakayama Castle during cherry blossom season. If you wish to purchase additional works by the artisan, they will be available for sale separately.
For those arriving early, we recommend enjoying a matcha tea break at Benmatsu-an, a tranquil tea house in the castle grounds.
Tour Details
📍 Meeting Point: Wakayama Castle Otemon Ichinohashi Bridge
⏳ Duration: 3.5 hours
Itinerary
- 17:00 Meet at Wakayama Castle’s Otemon Ichinohashi Bridge, followed by a guided tour of the castle grounds & historical insights
- 18:00 Lecture by a certified traditional artisan – learn the difference between authentic lacquer and imitations
- 18:30 Hands-on Wipe-Lacquer Experience (Fuki-Urushi)
- 19:45 Guidance on lacquerware care & maintenance
- 20:00 End of tour
Event Information
📅 Date: April 2, 2025 (Wednesday)
⏰ Time: 17:00 - 20:30
💰 Price: ¥15,000 (including tax)
Included in the Price
Exclusive Night Access to Wakayama Castle Tenshukaku
Castle Admission Fee
Lacquerware Crafting Materials (domestically sourced zelkova lidded bowl, genuine lacquer, tools, and supplies)
Lecture Fee by the Certified Traditional Artisan
Tour Guide Service (English guidance available)
Reserve your spot now for this rare and unforgettable cultural experience!
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Recommended accommodations
Recommended accommodations for those who prefer to find their own lodging.
Daiwa Roynet Hotel WAKAYAMA[Official]
Hotels in Wakayama City, JP, Comfort Hotel Wakayama near Wakayama Castle
Important Notice (Please read carefully)
Regarding Attire and Belongings
- Please wear clothing that can get dirty on all three days.
- On the first day, as the event will be held outdoors, please dress warmly.
Regarding the creation of lacquerware bento boxes
- If you would like to create an original design for the shell inlay on the bento box, please prepare your design in advance. The size of the box is 180×125×53 mm. We also have preliminary sketches available.
- Due to the nature of lacquerware, a few individuals may experience itching or other reactions. We have gloves and other protective items available for use.
Regarding Knives
- If you would like to have your name engraved on the knife, please contact us by email or other means by January 31, 2025, specifying up to 12 characters.
Regarding Meals
- Lunch is included on all three days (Day 1: Wakayama Castle Gozen at "Chihiro," Day 2: Bento lunch, Day 3: Decorative maki sushi bento made by participants).
- If you have any allergies or dietary restrictions, please let us know in advance.
Regarding Accommodation
- We also offer a plan with accommodation, including transportation to and from the hotel.
Regarding Transportation
- We can also offer a private hire vehicle instead of a bus, so please feel free to contact us for further details.
Meeting place
- JR Wakayama Station, Central Ticket Gate (1st floor)
https://www.ecomo-rakuraku.jp/en/station_map/%E5%92%8C%E6%AD%8C%E5%B1%B1/?
Regarding baggage
- Guests with a plan that includes accommodation will have their luggage stored at the meeting place and transported to the hotel.
The following items are included in the fee
- Transportation from the meeting point to the final drop-off
- Lunch for all three days
- Admission to Wakayama Castle and Onzanso
- Interpreter guide fee
- Fees for each workshop (knife sharpening, lacquer experience with a traditional craftsman, tuna sushi-making lesson, tuna-cutting show, decorative maki sushi)
- Material costs for Japanese knife, whetstone, bowl, lacquered bento box, etc.
- Matcha tea in a tea room
The following items are not included in the fee andwill be at your own expense:
- Drink costs during lunch
- Accommodation costs if you opt out of the hotel-included plan
