Witness wood brought to life with traditional techniques at a 150-year-old studio
2 hour private experience
Location: Kiso District, Nagano Prefecture
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Visit a lathe woodworking studio formed in the early Meiji period. See artisans at work and try your hand at lathe carving. See the lumber stockpile and learn more about the region's rich history of forestry.
Who can attend
Children must be 10+
What to wear
Clothing that you don't mind getting a little dirty
Availability
Everyday
Session 1 (09:00 - 11:00)
Session 2 (10:00 - 12:00)
Session 3 (13:30 - 15:30)
Session 4 (14:00 - 16:00)
Access
2 hours by car from Nagoya Station
Taking Turns
Lumber, considered one of the Kiso Valley's most precious natural resources, was once so severely protected that anyone found to cut a tree without permission was swiftly put to death. Though these brutal restrictions are now a thing of the past, the dense forests of the valley still fuel a thriving industry of timber and woodworking. One such technique that flourishes in the Kiso Valley is lathe woodcarving, which displays the elegant, natural grains of the wood, either polished plain or layered beneath lacquerware. A craft favored since the Edo Period, skilled artisans carefully maneuver spinning machines to deftly carve out wooden products, sourced directly from the very woods surrounding them. At this woodworking studio, operating for nearly 150 years since the early days of Japan's era of modernization, join the ADD generation owner in touring the workshop, seeing not only where the hands-on carving occurs, but also the connections between material, location, and craft. Experience this long-standing Kiso Valley heritage for yourself between trekking adventures and explorations of the nearby Nakasendo trail.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least one month in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.