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HOME KANAZAWA・KAGA TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS ARTISTIC APPRECIATION FINE FOOD CULTURE EVENT COLLECTION VIDEO

　In the northwest corner of Japan lies Kanazawa, a
city steeped in history and art. Walking through its
streets, one encounters craftsmen dedicated to
preserving centuries-old traditions of
craftsmanship. These artisans pour their boundless
efforts and unwavering pursuit of beauty into each
creation. Lesser-known crafts, such as Yamanaka
lacquerware, Kaga needlework, and paulownia
woodwork, await discovery by those eager to
explore beyond the ordinary.

Guided by the expertise of Hankyu Hanshin Department Stores, we
embarked on the Kanazawa/Kaga Traditional Crafts and Gourmet
Culinary Experience Tour, designed exclusively for VIP guests. This
journey went beyond the usual sightseeing to offer rare
opportunities: private access to workshops, direct conversations
with master craftsmen, and insights into the stories behind their
creations. Alongside these cultural encounters, we savored
Kanazawa’s renowned seafood paella, making the experience a
feast for both the senses and the soul.

Exploring the Inheritance and Innovation of Japanese Traditional Crafts

Our three-day, two-night journey began at Kaga Onsen

Reachable from Tokyo via Shinkansen in
under three hours.From there,we headed to
the Yamanaka Onsen District,our first stop
on this extraordinary adventure.

Kakusenkei Gorge/Yamanaka Onsen District

　Nestled in a mountain valley,the Yamanaka Onsen District offers
breathtaking scenery that changes with the seasons.Walking along its
winding paths,flanked by traditional wooden buildings,you’ll find
charming onsen ryokan (hot spring inns),teahouses,and small shops
steeped in history. In autumn, the red leaves blanket the mountainsides,
their vivid reflections mirrored in the clear stream below.

　As evening falls, gentle plumes of steam rise from the hot springs,
enveloping the district in a mystical haze. The tranquil atmosphere feels
like stepping into a dream, a haven of serenity where time seems to
stand still.

Mugen-an

　Designated as an Important Cultural Property of Ishikawa Prefecture,
Mugen-an is the most treasured martial arts study of the Kaga Clan.
Originally located in Takaoka-cho,Kanazawa City,the building was later
relocated to its current site.

　Constructed at the end of the Meiji era,Mugen-an represents the
pinnacle of regional woodworking craftsmanship.Its intricate design
reflects the architectural traditions of samurai villas,such as the iconic
Seison-kaku.As we explored the grounds,guided by the Hankyu Hanshin
Department Stores team,we marveled at the preserved splendor of the
Yokoyama family’s legacy.

　Inside,the residence houses a remarkable collection of antiques,including Ogata Korin paintings,Kaga maki-e lacquerware,and Kutani porcelain.
Visitors can also enjoy the Uruhashi teahouse,named after the word “lacquer” (uruwashi meaning beauty, and uruo meaning moist).Every utensil
used in the teahouse is crafted from Yamanaka lacquerware,its gleaming,smooth finish embodying the dynamic beauty of this traditional art form.
Touching these lacquered pieces and savoring tea in this historic space offers a tangible connection to Kanazawa’s enduring craft heritage.

Gato Mikio Shouten

　Founded in 1908 in Yamanaka Onsen,Gato Mikio Shouten has a history
spanning over a century.Renowned for preserving the natural beauty of
wood grain,the store has evolved from its woodturning roots to become
a symbol of craftsmanship that balances tradition with modernity.

　As part of the VIP tour,we had the rare privilege of visiting the store’s
research laboratory and product showroom.Here,the artistry of blending
traditional techniques with contemporary design is evident in every piece.
Gato Mikio Shouten emphasizes meticulous material selection and
stringent quality control,from sourcing raw wood to the final polishing of
their lacquerware.

　This dedication to excellence has garnered the brand numerous awards,both in Japan and internationally.Each piece is not just a craft item but a
work of art that seamlessly integrates into daily life.Whether you are discovering their creations for the first time or are an avid collector,Gato
Mikio Shouten offers a unique dialogue between nature and aesthetics,evoking a sense of timeless elegance.

How many truly century-old handcrafting techniques still endure in today’s
fast-paced world?In Kanazawa,a city that retains the charm of the Edo period,
a dedicated group of artisans quietly safeguards its traditional crafts.From
Kaga fishing needles and rods to Kutani pottery,
these crafts embody centuries of history and artistry.
What is it about Kanazawa’s traditional crafts that inspires such devotion
across generations?Let’s continue our VIP journey,
curated by Hankyu Hanshin Department Stores, to uncover more of this
cultural treasure trove.

Kaga Kebari Meboso Hachirobei Store

　Our first stop was Meboso Hachirobei,a store that has been an integral
part of Kanazawa’s heritage for over 449 years.Upon entering,we were
warmly welcomed by the shop’s owners,Mr.Yuji Meboso and Mr.
Shinichi.Despite being in his 90s,Mr.Shinichi demonstrated the intricate
needle-making process,threading a needle effortlessly without glasses—
a testament to his lifelong dedication.

　The store’s origins date back to its founder,Hachirobei,who enhanced
Kyoto’s needle-making techniques by redesigning the needle eye into an
elongated oval shape for easier threading.The term“Meboso”(meaning
“squinting eyes”)reflects the craftsmanship involved, as artisans

narrowed their eyes while crafting needle eyes with precision.Under the patronage of the Kaga domain lord, the name“Meboso”became
synonymous with their high-quality needles.

　During the Meiji period,with the rise of river fishing,the store began producing specialized Kaga needles for ayu fishing.Renowned for their
beauty and quality,these needles became a hallmark of Kanazawa’s traditional crafts.Today,Meboso Hachirobei has expanded its craft to include
feather accessories,such as earrings and hair ornaments,each a stunning blend of artistry and tradition.

Kaga Rod Workshop Hakuho

　Hidden in a quiet residential area,the Hakuho workshop is a rare gem
that outsiders typically cannot access without special arrangements,like
those provided by this VIP tour.

　Here,we met Mr.Nakamura,the workshop’s master craftsman,who
explained the painstaking process of crafting Kaga fishing rods.Beginning
with bamboo harvested by hand,the rods undergo meticulous drying,
coloring,and finishing.Due to the complexity of the process,Mr.
Nakamura produces only around 40 rods per year.
　The workshop also employs two apprentices,who create rods under the
“Mine”brand while Mr.Nakamura focuses on producing authentic Kaga

rods.Known for their durability and strength,Kaga rods undergo a unique high-temperature firing process that gives them unparalleled flexibility
and conductivity,making them ideal for demanding fishing conditions.

Sashimi Restaurant

　No trip to Kanazawa is complete without indulging in its renowned
seafood.At Omicho Market—Kanazawa’s “kitchen”—we enjoyed a
luxurious three-colored seafood rice bowl topped with gold leaf,as well
as Kanazawa’s specialty,black throat sea perch (nodoguro).Served
as sashimi or grilled, the fish’s tender texture and pure,fresh flavor made
for an unforgettable dining experience.

21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art

　Kanazawa seamlessly bridges the gap between its traditional heritage
and modern artistic expression,as exemplified by the 21st Century
Museum of Contemporary Art.
　Opened in 2004,the museum is known for its unique circular design,
symbolizing the boundless nature of art.Visitors are free to explore its
open,interconnected spaces, which house a mix of permanent
installations and rotating exhibits.
　The museum’s most iconic piece is The Swimming Pool by Argentine
artist Leandro Erlich.This interactive installation creates an optical
illusion, allowing visitors to experience the pool from both above and
below.It has become one of the museum’s signature attractions, drawing
art enthusiasts from around the world.

Hokusando

　Our final stop was Hokusando,a prestigious Kutani pottery store
established in 1881 and located on Kanazawa’s Korinbo Street.
　The store showcases a wide array of Kutani ware, from traditional
masterpieces by veteran artisans to innovative designs by young artists.
Their collection includes practical tea sets,bowls,and plates,as well as
artistic pieces that seamlessly blend traditional techniques with
contemporary aesthetics.
　Kutani ware is distinguished by its vibrant use of five characteristic
colors—red,yellow, green,purple,and blue—creating pieces that radiate
beauty and charm.Each item embodies centuries-old techniques while
adapting to modern life,making it both functional and decorative.At
Hokusando,visitors can find the perfect piece to take home,carrying a
piece of Japanese tradition into their everyday lives.

In Kanazawa,time flows with a serene, unhurried rhythm.
Walking through this city of enduring traditions,
you’ll encounter artisans who uphold the art of crafting with reverence and
precision.From applying gold leaf as thin as a cicada’s wing to
painting vivid patterns on porcelain, every craft in Kanazawa
whispers tales of dedication,patience,and beauty.

Iwamoto Kiyoshi Shouten

　For over a century,this shop has specialized in crafting exquisite items
from paulownia wood,beginning with braziers and evolving to include
modern interior decorations,coffee accessories,tea and sake trays,and
elegant ornaments.Each creation exemplifies how traditional
craftsmanship can seamlessly blend into contemporary lifestyles.

　While Kanazawa is famed for crafts like Kutani pottery,Kaga Yuzen
dyeing,and Yamanaka lacquerware,paulownia woodwork often flies
under the radar.However,when you run your fingers across the delicate
grain and feel the warm,lightweight texture,it’s impossible not to sense
the understated beauty and cultural spirit imbued in each piece.

　Thanks to the Hankyu Hanshin Department Stores’s tour,we ventured into the workshop to witness the meticulous production process.From
wood planing and heat treatment to polishing with a powered gear fan,every step reflects the artisan’s commitment to excellence.The result?
Lightweight, insect-resistant, moisture-proof trays and accessories that are as functional as they are beautiful.

Tamaru Saryo

　This refined tea house and restaurant offers an immersive experience
in Japanese cuisine and tea culture.Sourcing only the finest seasonal
ingredients,Tamaru Saryo creates dishes that delight both the palate and
the eye.Each meal is presented with impeccable aesthetic sensibility,
elevating dining to an art form.

　Beyond its culinary offerings,Tamaru Saryo introduces visitors to the
profound philosophy of the Japanese tea ceremony.Here, the concept of
“Ichigo ichie”—“one time, one meeting”—takes center stage.This principle
reminds us to cherish each encounter as a once-in-a-lifetime experience,
fostering mutual respect and sincere exchange between the host and
guests.

　Whether savoring a traditional kaiseki meal or participating in a tea ceremony,Tamaru Saryo beautifully encapsulates the essence of Japanese
hospitality and culture.

Mori Hachi Kanazawa Minami Ten

　Founded in 1625,Mori Hachi is the oldest wagashi (Japanese
confectionery) shop in Ishikawa Prefecture,carrying nearly four centuries
of tradition.Every confection is crafted with expert techniques and the
finest ingredients,resulting in sweets that are not only delicious but also
visually exquisite,resembling miniature works of art.

　On the second floor,a museum of wagashi molds showcases over
1,000 wooden molds passed down since the Edo period.This collection
offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and artistry of wagashi
making, leaving visitors deeply inspired.

　Ms. Chisato Nakamiya, the shop’s young proprietress and a certified wagashi artisan, demonstrated the intricate process of creating these
delicacies.Afterward,we enjoyed the fruits of her labor in the upstairs tea room,where the delicate sweetness of wagashi harmonized perfectly
with the slight bitterness of matcha.Each bite offered a sublime balance of flavors,textures,and contrasts—a testament to the artistry and tradition
Mori Hachi embodies.

Concluding our journey,we returned to Kanazawa
Station,where the iconic “Tsuzumi-mon” gate
greeted us.This striking architectural landmark,
inspired by traditional Japanese drums,
symbolizes Kanazawa’s harmonious blend of
heritage and modernity.Its elegant wooden curves
and towering structure are a fitting tribute to the
city’s enduring legacy of craftsmanship.

Through this journey,we discovered that Kanazawa and Kaga are not merely keepers of
tradition but vibrant centers where history,art,and innovation thrive in harmony.From
the artistry of gold leaf to the delicate sweetness of wagashi,each encounter enriched our
appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship and culture.

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