Tokyo Weekender - December 2017 - January 2018

experiences ACTIVITIES
Launched in 2015, Omotenashi Selection is a collection
of quality Japan-made products conveying the country’s
craftsmanship and hospitality (summed up by the word
“omotenashi”). This year the project launched its Experiences
category, giving visitors to Japan the chance to discover
the best the country has to offer in terms of restaurants,
accommodation and activities. To kick off this issue’s special
“Experience Japan” section, we bring you 24 venues and
activities handpicked by the Omotenashi Selection team.
For more information about the project, visit omotenashinippon.jp/selection/en
CREATE GOLD LEAF CRAFTS
WHERE: KANAZAWA, ISHIKAWA
PREFECTURE
Kanazawa is famous for producing nearly all
of Japan’s gold leaf, and has been doing so
since back in the mid-1500s. Gold Leaf Sakuda
was founded in 1919, and has built a reputation
for creating high quality gold leaf products
using traditional methods, even receiving
a nod from the Michelin Blue Guide. At
Sakuda’s trial workshops, you can experience
making your own gold leaf designs. Choose
from a selection of patterns or create your
own from scratch. There are different items
to choose from such as chopsticks, mini boxes,
wooden pendants, and mini cherry boxes.
The workshop lasts about one hour and the
cost ranges from ¥600 to ¥3,400 depending on
the item you choose. goldleaf-sakuda.jp/en
SHOW OFF YOUR METALWORKING SKILLS AT A
KNIFE-MAKING WORKSHOP
WHERE: SANJO, NIIGATA PREFECTURE
It’s rare to find a facility where you can experience knife-making using traditional manufacturing
methods. At Sanjo Blacksmith Training Hall’s workshops, however, you can try out Japanese
nail-making, letter opener-making, and knife sharpening with traditional Sanjo techniques.
Using a coke forge, steel chopsticks and hammers, you’ll get to experience real metalworking
alongside skilled craftsmen. You’ll also leave with a new appreciation of the skill that goes into
traditional Japanese monozukuri (manufacturing). kajidojo.com
30 | DEC 2017 - JAN 2018 | TOKYO WEEKENDER