Kawashiri Craftsmens Tour Discover Sake Blades and Sweets

You can also purchase handcrafted knives made by skilled artisans.

Kawashiri Craftsmens Tour Discover Sake Blades and Sweets

By Kumamoto Tour Guided by Locals

Free cancellation available

See tickets

Features

Free cancellation available
3h
Mobile voucher
Instant confirmation

Overview

Kawashiri, a town of artisans with a history dating back to the Edo period, offers a unique experience that immerses visitors in traditional craftsmanship and local culture. Once an important hub for the Kumamoto Domain, Kawashiri was renowned for its high-quality knives, woodworking, lacquerware, and pottery. The town’s artisans continue to pass down these skills through generations.

The tour also provides the opportunity to taste Kumamoto’s renowned sake, including “Akazake,” a sake unique to the region, along with other local varieties. Enjoy the rich flavors while learning about the brewing process, making it a perfect introduction to Kumamoto’s local culture.

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Kawashiri’s rich history, culture, and craftsmanship. Although still a hidden gem for many international travelers, Kawashiri holds a wealth of cultural significance waiting to be discovered. Join us and create lasting memories of Kumamoto’s fascinating and lesser-known attractions.

Activity location

くまもと工芸会館
- 58 3
- 861-4115, Kumamoto, Kumamoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

JR Kumamoto Lost & Found
- 25 15
- 860-0047, Kumamoto, Kumamoto, Japan

Check availability

Kawashiri Craftsmens Tour Discover Sake Blades and Sweets

3h
English

Travelers

Language options: English

Starting time: 12:45pm

Price details

$104.16 x 1 Adult$104.16

Total

Until Sat, May 31

What's included, what's not

Admission Fee for the Kawashiri Rice Warehouse of the Kumamoto Domain
Guide Fee
Food and drink costs at Tenmeido are separate.

Know before you book

Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activity itinerary

くまもと工芸会館

Kawashiri has flourished as a “town of artisans” since the Edo period, attracting many workshops and craftsmen. The area was particularly known for blade manufacturing, with over 40 knife shops at its peak, producing high-quality knives and farming tools. Additionally, traditional crafts such as woodworking, lacquerware, confectionery, and sake brewing thrived, making Kawashiri an important commercial hub for the Kumamoto domain. Even today, the craftsmanship is preserved, and the legacy of Kawashiri blades and Kumamoto crafts continues to live on. Here, you can learn about Kawashiri’s history as a town of artisans, admire the profound works of Kumamoto’s craftsmen, and observe the skilled techniques of Kawashiri blade artisans. You can also purchase these exquisite crafts, so don’t miss the chance to take home a masterpiece.

Kawashiri Public Hall

Kawashiri Public Hall is a historic wooden building located in Kawashiri, Kumamoto. Built in the early 20th century, it is still used today as a venue for community gatherings and cultural events. Inside, it features a spacious 80-tatami hall and two Japanese-style rooms, preserving the characteristics of traditional Japanese architecture. It is also a symbol of Kawashiri’s rich history and craftsmanship, allowing visitors to experience the nostalgic atmosphere of the past.

熊本藩川尻米蔵

20m
Admission ticket included

The Kawashiri Rice Warehouse of the Kumamoto Domain was built during the Edo period to store rice collected as tax. Kawashiri was an important economic hub for the Kumamoto Domain, where rice was gathered and managed. This historic warehouse still stands today and has been designated as a national historic site. In 2023, it was opened to the public as a museum, showcasing the history of Kawashiri and the rice trade. Visiting this site offers a glimpse into how rice played a key role in Japan’s economy and daily life during the Edo period. Additionally, the museum has interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience the atmosphere of that time, making it a fascinating place to explore.

Taishogura

Tōhi Taishō-gura is a facility of Zuiyo Co., one of Kumamoto’s leading sake manufacturers, offering local specialties such as Akazake and authentic shochu. Here, you can taste and purchase exclusive sake, as well as explore exhibits on Akazake, a unique Kumamoto specialty, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region’s rich sake culture. While enjoying tastings, you can also learn about the history and appreciation of Japanese sake through detailed explanations of various types. Small bottles are available, making it a great place for souvenir shopping.

Kitagawa Tenmeido

Tenmeido is a long-established confectionery shop with a proud 240-year history, founded during the Edo period. Originally starting as a candy-making business, it now produces and sells both traditional Japanese sweets and Western-style confections. While preserving traditional techniques, the shop also offers treats suited to modern tastes, making it a beloved spot for locals. Inside, visitors can enjoy fresh and baked sweets paired with matcha, as well as take a relaxing break in a nostalgic atmosphere. Be sure to savor the unique flavors that only a long-standing shop like Tenmeido can offer.※Drinks and sweets are not included in the plan, so they must be paid separately.

Location

Activity location

くまもと工芸会館
- 58 3
- 861-4115, Kumamoto, Kumamoto, Japan

Meeting/Redemption Point

JR Kumamoto Lost & Found
- 25 15
- 860-0047, Kumamoto, Kumamoto, Japan

Best Deals on Things to Do

Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. Expedia offers one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Kumamoto your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food, or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.

Top Experiences in Kumamoto

With so many things to do in Kumamoto, planning the perfect day out may seem like a daunting task. Expedia is here to take the hassle out of finding the best attractions, tours, and activities in Kumamoto. Families, couples, and business travelers can all find the perfect activity in Kumamoto to create life-long memories with the help of Expedia.