📍 Gujo Hachiman in Gifu Prefecture is a historic castle town known for its beautiful clear streams and traditional streets. Beyond sightseeing, you can also experience Japan’s rich artistic traditions firsthand! If you’re visiting Gujo Hachiman, Japan, and looking for hands-on activities, these workshops are a must-try.
🛠 This time, we tried:
- 🎭 Silkscreen Printing for Tenugui (Hand Towels)
- 🍤 Making Food Samples
- 🏺 Crafting Washi Oil Lamps
👨👩👧 These activities are perfect for family trips, especially if you have young children!
1️⃣ Create Your Own Tenugui! Silkscreen Printing Experience 🖌️
🏠 We visited Takara Gallery, a workshop where you can design and print your own tenugui towel using the silkscreen technique. Tenugui is a versatile Japanese hand towel that makes for a lightweight, easy-to-carry souvenir.
📖 Step-by-Step Experience
1️⃣ Choose a design – 🎨 Select your favorite pattern from a wide variety.
2️⃣ Set up the screen – 🔧 Fix the chosen design screen onto the fabric.
3️⃣ Apply the ink – 🖍️ Evenly spread ink over the screen.
4️⃣ Dry the fabric – ♨️ Use a dryer to properly set the ink.
5️⃣ Finished! – 🎉 Your unique tenugui towel is ready!
👧 My daughter was fully engaged in the process, and she was thrilled when she saw the final product.
🎁 Why We Love Tenugui:
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Perfect as a practical souvenir or stylish decoration
- A unique piece of Gujo Hachiman, Japan culture
✅ Takara Gallery Official Website
📅 Advance reservations are recommended, but if there is availability on the day, walk-ins may also participate. You can book your experience in advance here: Reservation Link.
2️⃣ Hyper-Realistic Food Sample Making 🍣
🥢 Gujo Hachiman is famous as the birthplace of food samples. At Sample Kobo, you can create replicas of tempura and lettuce that look just like the real thing!
👩🍳 We joined the activity, and even my young daughter found it easy and fun! The process of coating the tempura felt just like actual cooking, making it an exciting and memorable experience.
✅ Sample Kobo Official Website
3️⃣ Making Herbarium Bottles 🏺
📝 Gujo Hachiman is also known for its high-quality washi paper. Here, you can craft your own herbarium bottle (herbarium bottle).
🌸 By placing washi and flowers inside a glass bottle and filling it with special oil, you create a beautiful and warm decorative piece. These handmade lamps add a cozy touch to any interior space.
✅ Washi Oil Lamp Workshop Details
🏆 A Fun and Easy Art Experience for Families!
👪 Each of these activities was enjoyable to experience with my young daughter. The instructors were friendly and provided detailed guidance, making the process easy even for beginners.
💡 Every workshop includes close guidance from instructors, so first-timers and children can participate without any worries!
✅ Why We Recommend It:
- 👶 Great for kids and families!
- 🎨 A memorable way to create original souvenirs
- 🇯🇵 A unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture beyond just sightseeing
- 🏯 Deepen your connection to Gujo Hachiman, Gifu, and its traditions
✨ If you’re looking for a hands-on cultural experience in Gujo Hachiman, Japan, or want to create lasting family memories, these traditional art workshops are perfect!
🚶 Explore the Charming Streets of Gujo Hachiman 🏯
🏞️ Beyond these hands-on activities, Gujo Hachiman, Gifu is also a picturesque town perfect for strolling and discovering hidden gems.
♨️ After enjoying these workshops, why not relax at a traditional ryokan with an onsen? Just a 40-minute drive from Gujo, Sugishima Ryokan offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, complete with hot springs and delicious local cuisine. We will introduce this ryokan in a separate article—stay tuned!
📈 Internal Link: Read More About Our Gujo Hachiman Town Walk
After enjoying these workshops, why not relax at a traditional ryokan with an onsen? Just a 40-minute drive from Gujo, Sugishima Ryokan offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, complete with hot springs and delicious local cuisine.
📈 Internal Link: Our Stay at Sugishima Ryokan – Full Review
✈️ How to Get to Gujo Hachiman for International Travelers
🚅 By Train & Bus:
- Take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Nagoya Station.
- From Nagoya, take the JR Takayama Line to Gifu Station.
- At Gifu Station, transfer to a Nagaragawa Railway train to Gujo-Hachiman Station.
- From the station, take a short bus or taxi ride to the town center.
🚌 By Highway Bus:
- Direct highway buses run from Nagoya Station to Gujo Hachiman.
- This is one of the easiest and most affordable options.
🚗 By Car:
- If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is a great option.
- From Nagoya, drive along the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway (~1.5 hours).
With these options, visiting Gujo Hachiman, Japan is easier than ever! Whether you choose public transport or a rental car, the journey to this charming town is scenic and enjoyable.
