Home » Hyogo Traditional 1 day excursion

Hyogo Traditional 1 day excursion

Meeting Point: Shin-Kobe Station or your hotel in Hyogo / Osaka / Kyoto

Recommended Season: All season

Duration: 1 day excursion

In Hyogo Prefecture, many handicrafts are still made using excellent traditional techniques. All of the nationally and prefecturally designated traditional crafts have been nurtured since ancient times amid the local nature and lifestyle, and have been passed down to the present day as tasteful daily necessities that combine “use” and “beauty.” This is a fulfilling day trip that allows you to experience two of Hyogo Prefecture’s traditional crafts, Tanba ware and Miki cutlery, and enjoy a lunch featuring the rich ingredients of Tanba Sasayama.

Get the in-depth knowledge of Tanba ware

Tanba ware, also known as Tanba-yaki, is a traditional form of Japanese pottery that originates from the Tanba region in Hyogo Prefecture. It is one of Japan’s six ancient kilns and has a history dating back over 800 years. Tanba ware is characterized by its rustic simplicity and natural ash glazes, which are achieved through wood-fired kilns. The pottery often features earthy tones and textures, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Tanba ware is commonly used for everyday items such as tea bowls, sake bottles, and storage jars.

① Visit The Museum of Ceramic Art, Hyogo

The Museum of Ceramic Art, Hyogo, located in Sasayama, Hyogo Prefecture, is a cultural facility dedicated to the exhibition and promotion of ceramic art, showcasing a wide range of ceramic works, from traditional Japanese pottery to contemporary pieces, with a focus on local works. The museum’s architecture itself is noteworthy, blending in with the surrounding natural landscape.

② Visit Tanba ware craft gallery “Miyanokita-kama” and hear from the craftsmen

A gallery with earthen walls, completed over 12 years with the cooperation of Akira Kusumi, a renowned Japanese plaster craftsman. Situated amidst the natural surroundings of the mountains, the gallery offers an opportunity to fully appreciate the charm of Tanba ware.

©Hyogo Tourism Bureau

Visit Miki cutlery studio : Tanaka Kazuyuki Hamono Studio

Discover the rich history and craftsmanship of Banshu Miki Cutlery, which flourished after the fall of Miki Castle in 1580 when skilled carpenters and blacksmiths gathered to rebuild the town. Visit Tanaka Kazuyuki Cutlery Manufacturing, a knife maker established in the late Meiji period, located in the renowned knife town of Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture. Witness the meticulous process of crafting exquisite knives, all forged and hand-hammered with precision and dedication. This experience will leave you inspired by the artistry and tradition of Japanese cutlery-making.

©Hyogo Tourism Bureau

Have a local lunch at Yamasato Cuisine Maekawa

At Maekawa, the chef meticulously prepares seasonal course meals using fresh ingredients sourced from his hometown of Tamba Sasayama. Delight in the exquisite flavors of locally grown mountain vegetables, meats, and rice, all artfully crafted to reflect the changing seasons. This dining experience promises to captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more.

©Hyogo Tourism Bureau

(Image) ©Hyogo Tourism Bureau

Shin-Kobe Station or your hotel in Hyogo / Osaka / Kyoto

Tanba Sasayama

Miki

Arima Onsen

Shin-Kobe Station or your hotel in Hyogo / Osaka / Kyoto

■In the morning, pick-up services by private hire

■The Museum of Ceramic Art, Hyogo

■Miyanokita-kama

■Lunch:Yamasato Cuisine Maekawa

■Tanaka Kazuyuki Hamono Studio

■Before going back to the station or your hotel, visit Arima Onsen

■Tour ends at Shin-Kobe Station or your hotel in Hyogo / Osaka / Kyoto

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■Private Hire

■Private Guide

■Lunch

■Train or bus tickets to come to the meeting point

■Breakfast and Dinner

■Accomodation