GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!
GoWithGuide
GoWithGuideFind your perfect tour guide at GoWithGuide. Relax and cherish unforgettable tours with loved ones. Create personalized tours for a truly memorable trip!
Fukui Private Tour -
Fukui Private Tour -
Fukui Private Tour - Washi making
Washi making
Fukui Private Tour - Washi making
Washi making
Fukui Private Tour - Enshring God of Paper
Enshring God of Paper
Fukui Private Tour - Washi making mill
Washi making mill
Fukui Private Tour - Washi Material
Washi Material
Fukui Private Tour - Washi Material
Washi Material
Fukui Private Tour - Removing Stains
Removing Stains
Fukui Private Tour -
Fukui Private Tour -
Fukui Private Tour - Okamoto/Otaki Shrine
Okamoto/Otaki Shrine
Fukui Private Tour - Sculptural masterpieces
Sculptural masterpieces
Fukui Private Tour - Most Complicated shrine roofs all over Japan
Most Complicated shrine roofs all over Japan
Fukui Private Tour -

Touch the Craftsmanship: Washi Paper making in Echizen

Art, Culture, & Historical
Fukui Tour Guide - Megumi Y.

Joined 2024

Megumi Y.
5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
Identity Verified
Interview-Based Quality Checks
Fukui
English, Japanese (Native)
4 hrs 30 mins
Private tour (only you and Megumi Y.)
Up to 3 people

We will begin with a hands-on paper-making experience lectured by craftmen. Then let's visit to a studio specializing in large-format washi used by painters. Finally, we will visit Otaki Shrine, known for having one of the most intricate roofs in Japan. As we stroll along the river through the peaceful village, you'll discover the rich atmosphere of Echizen Washi village, where papermaking has thrived for over 1,500 years. Discover the deep spirituality and craftsmanship lies in paker making.

Itinerary

This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!

10:00 AM

Meeting Point

Echizen-Takefu Station

- Shinkansen Station

10:20 AM

Yanase Ryozo Paper Studio (experience)

At Echizen Washi RYOZO (Yanase Ryozo Paper Studio), you can enjoy an authentic paper-making experience with two types of washi: decorative washi and the unique "Kanagata Rakusui Paper," which can only be made here in the Echizen Washi region. Using traditional tools and molds employed by professional artisans, participants will learn directly from the craftsmen about the process and their work. Each participant will make two pieces of washi—one decorative and one Kanagata Rakusui—and can take them home after drying. This experience captures the joy of paper-making and the beauty of washi.

11:30 AM

Lunch

Let's have a Japanese lunch.

01:00 PM

Iwano Heizaburo Paper Studio (factory tour)

At Iwano Heizaburo Paper Studio, with over 150 years of history since its founding in the Meiji era, you’ll witness Japan's largest handmade washi papermaking facility. The studio features a massive vat capable of producing sheets up to 2m x 2.7m, ideal for Japanese paintings and murals. Upholding the techniques of its founder, Iwano Heisaburo, the studio has created paper cherished by renowned artists like Yokoyama Taikan. Additionally, it preserves traditional Echizen Washi patterns, designated as an Intangible Cultural Property. Visiting this studio provides a unique opportunity to experience the artistry and craftsmanship of Japan’s papermaking heritage.

02:00 PM

Okamoto - Otaki Jinja Shrine

Otaki Shrine is a must-visit destination for those exploring the rich cultural heritage of Echizen. Nestled in a serene natural setting, this historic shrine is dedicated to the deity of paper, honoring the deep connection between spirituality and craftsmanship in the region. Its architectural beauty is highlighted by one of the most intricate and complex roof designs in Japan, a testament to the skill of traditional Japanese builders. Visitors are drawn not only to its peaceful ambiance but also to its significance in the long history of Echizen Washi, making it a unique and inspiring stop on your journey.

Ending Point

JR Echizen - Takefu Station

Want to personalize this tour?

This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.

Inclusions & Exclusions

What‘s included

Guide fee

Transportation between JR Echizen-Takefu Shinkansen Station point and Washi Village

Washi Paper Making Experience

Washi Paper Maker Studio Factory Tour

What‘s not included

Lunch

Tour Important Information

* This tour involves a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.

* This tour is not recommended for those with severe back/knee problems.

Cancellation Policy

  • Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
  • 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
  • No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
Fukui Tour Guide - Megumi Y.

Joined 2024

Megumi Y.
5.00 / 5
(4 reviews)
Identity Verified
Interview-Based Quality Checks

About Tour Guide Megumi Y.

Hi, my name is Megumi. I have traveled around all over Japan while pandemic via working remotely and I decided to move to Fukui where I fell in love. I will share with you the best part of Fukui!

Reviews

A Memorable Day Exploring Fukui with Megumi-san

Megumi-san responded quickly and efficiently to my enquiry and customized a one-day tour. She picked me up at my hotel and took me through the beautiful inland hills of Fukui. We started at the Fukui Prefectural Dinosaur Museum — an incredible experience that truly feels like stepping back in time and is an absolute must-visit in Fukui. Another highlight was Eiheiji Temple, the heart of Sōtō Zen Buddhism since the 13th century — peaceful, spiritual, and stunning. Nearby, we visited Echizen Daibutsu, home to Japan’s largest seated Buddha (it’s truly massive!), and the mystical Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, founded over 1,300 years ago and open to the public only once every 33 years. Throughout the day, Megumi-san was patient, knowledgeable, and took time to explain the history and cultural background of each site. It was a wonderful and memorable day — I highly recommend Megumi-san to anyone planning a tour in Fukui.

Calvin K.

Megumi Y.

Thank you very much for coming all the way to Fukui. I believe there was heavy snow on your way back, and I hope you were able to return home smoothly. Fukui may seem quiet or modest at first glance, but it holds wonderful treasures that reveal themselves to those who take the time to see them. I’m very happy that I could share some of those special places with Kevin san. I would be delighted if you have the chance to visit Fukui again someday. Until then, I wish you all the best and good health. Thank you once again!

Half Day in Echizen: Washi, Knife Making & Laquerware

This was our 1st trip to Echizen and we had limited time. Megumi picked us up from the train station and graciously transported all of our luggage too! She listened extremely well to our interests and customized a tour that was perfect- she even was able to fit in a quick lunch in a nice park. The washi tour was incredibly moving - and the history and connection will stick with us; Aki, our 80 yr old tour guide is an absolute gem. Megumi was also able to pivot quickly during our visit to the Takafu Knife Center, we were able to visit an artisan in his shop and purchase one of his handmade knife’s. The lacquerware and temple stops were also wonderful. We highly recommend you book a tour with Megumi. She will make your day unforgettable.

Jami N.

Megumi Y.

It was truly a pleasure meeting you both and welcoming you to Echizen for your first visit. I’m very happy to hear that the day suited your interests so well — from the moving washi experience with Aki-san, to the spontaneous visit with the knife artisan, and our quiet lunch in the park. Thank you also for being so open, curious, and engaged throughout the tour. Your warm energy made the entire day very special for me as well. Wishing you all the best on your travels, and I hope our paths will cross again someday. Warmest regards, Megumi

An experience you will never forget

Megumi is a wonderful guide that has put together the perfect Washi paper experience. We spent the morning making two different pieces of washi paper with sensei. Making washi paper is harder than it looks and has a mind & body connection. Remember to relax. We had lunch at a spectacular local eatery. Then in the afternoon, we had a personal factory tour by sensei Aki. Sensei Aki is such a delightful person. She is very knowledgeable. Her factory has been operating for 4 generations and at 81 she is one of the 2nd generation of owners. We can’t thank Megumi enough for such an awesome experience! It was delightful in every way.

Phil L.

Megumi Y.

Phil san's gentle personality and Theresa's bright smile made the tour so special for all of us, the sensei and myself included! We truly appreciated the time we were able to share together. Please come visit Japan again someday. Next time, let’s all wear matching T-shirts! Thank you so much!

Want to Personalize?

$228/ per person

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