Craftsman-Led “Mikinokuchi” Making and Workshop Tour <Japanese language only>

Highlights

• Create a Mikinokuchi using traditional techniques
• Beginners are welcome! Each participant will receive individual instruction
• The “Mikinokuchi” you create can be taken home on the same day
• Receive a gift of Yoshino cypress wood shavings!
• Recommended for those interested in Japanese culture and traditional crafts

What to expect

You will create a “Mikinokuchi,” a traditional craft of Nara and a registered Japan Heritage item. During the workshop tour, you can enjoy explanations from skilled craftsmen and explore various kamidana (household altars), sacred items, and shrines.

About this experience

Starting at

09:30, 13:00, 15:00

Schedule

1. —
   Check-in at Komeda Shingu Store
2. —
   [Komeda Shingu Store]

   A sacred items store that has been manufacturing and selling sacred items and household altars for approximately 140 years. Since its founding in 1887, it has been passed down from the first generation to the current fifth generation in Shimoichi Town, Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture.
3. —
   Explanation

   You can directly hear from the craftsmen and experience the charm of household altars and sacred items. Enjoy detailed explanations about the different types of household altars and sacred items, as well as the traditional tools used in making these sacred items.
4. —
   Start of Experience

   Receive an explanation on how to sit cross-legged and about the tools used (workbench, plane), then watch a demonstration by a craftsman. Afterward, try planing yourself!
5. —
   "Mikinokuchi" Making

   Wear a samue and feel like a craftsman as you make a "Mikinokuchi." Aim to create one pair (two pieces) per person!
   *While Mikinokuchi can be found throughout Japan, only those made in Shimoichi Town are registered as a Japan Heritage item.
6. —
   ■What is a Mikinokuchi?

   A Mikinokuchi, also known as Noshiguchi, is primarily used for celebrations such as New Year's and house-raising ceremonies. The top part is designed to represent "flame," while the bottom part symbolizes "water," embodying the idea of purifying impurities with the burning flame.
7. —
   Workshop Tour

   As you tour the workshop, you'll have the opportunity to see shrines with various shapes and features. You'll also receive explanations about the wood specifically used for sacred items and learn about the differences in wood grain depending on the region where the wood is sourced.
8. —
   Activity Ends

Location and Directions

• Check-in / Check-out

  Yoneda Shingu Store

  20-1 Shimoichi, Shimoichi Town, Yoshino District, Nara Prefecture

  

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