DISCOVER FUKUI

Highlights

Kawada, the town of Echizen lacquerware with 1,500 years of history. It is said that lacquerware began in Echizen when Emperor Keitai's broken crown was skillfully repaired with lacquer, leading to the encouragement of lacquer craftsmanship.

This tour visits two lacquerware workshops in the Kawada district.
*Please note that depending on circumstances, we may guide you to a different workshop than the one pictured.

The workshop featured in this tour is a manufacturer in the Echizen lacquerware region, continuing a 1500-year tradition. As , it passes down the lacquer craftsmanship inherited from predecessors to the next generation while promoting the culture of lacquer and bowls.

Nishikikuri Shikkiten is a lacquerware workshop with over 100 years of history.
In Kawada, the town of Echizen lacquerware, the Nishikikuri Lacquerware Shop is run by brothers.

Experience Details

We set off riding the URUSHI BIKE. The URUSHI BIKE is an original bicycle created through a collaboration between "tokyobike" and lacquer artisans from the Kawada district.

※In case of rain, the tour may proceed on foot.

Ascending to Shikiyama Shrine, the lacquerware shrine, leads to a hilltop offering sweeping views of the Kawada district—a particularly eye-catching, photogenic spot. Other delights include discovering your own favorite points along the way while cycling, such as the nostalgic charm of the historic townscape or mountains shrouded in clouds on rainy days.

 

During the workshop tour, you'll first learn about Echizen lacquerware, followed by a visit to the lacquering workshop. Inside this normally off-limits space, you'll see lacquer and artisans' tools firsthand while gaining insight into the depth of Echizen lacquerware.
*Depending on circumstances, we may guide you to a different workshop than the one pictured.

After the workshop tour, we'll hop back on our bikes and head to Nishikikuri Lacquerware Shop.
First, Mr. Nishikikuri will demonstrate the process, and then you'll apply lacquer yourself using the artisans' tools.

The tour ends here. We'll finish up by taking commemorative photos.
A journey through Kawada, the town of Echizen lacquerware, riding a lacquered bicycle while experiencing the artisans' techniques and passion. Why not visit the birthplace of Echizen lacquerware yourself?