Koriyama | The Art of Laughter: Paint a Traditional Hyottoko Mask & Discover 300 Years of Japanese Folk Craft
Itinerary Details
Three Hundred Years of Smiles: The Folk Art of Takashiba
Takashiba in Koriyama, Fukushima, is home to one of Japan’s best-known centers of traditional papier-mâché folk art. With a history spanning more than 300 years, the Daikokuya workshop has preserved the craft of making colorful masks and folk figures that have long been associated with celebrations, good fortune, and bringing smiles to people’s faces. Step inside the traditional workshop, surrounded by the scent of wood and the atmosphere of generations past, and discover the stories behind these distinctive folk crafts before creating your own.
Put on a Mask, Step into Another Character
One of the highlights is witnessing a traditional Hyottoko-style dance performed by an experienced local artisan. With playful expressions and energetic movements, the performance captures the humorous and carefree spirit of Japanese folk culture. Afterward, take part in a relaxed conversation with the artisan and hear stories about life, craft, and the traditions that have been passed down through generations. Wearing a mask can be more than simply becoming someone else—it can be a joyful way to let go, laugh, and experience a different side of yourself.
Itinerary
Traditional Workshop Tour & Cultural Discovery
Workshop Check-in & Folk Art Tour
Arrive at the Daikokuya Museum and explore its collection of traditional papier-mâché masks and folk figures. Your guide will introduce the history of Takashiba’s folk art and explain the cultural meaning behind characters such as Hyottoko, traditionally associated with festivals, celebration, and good fortune.
Paint Your Own Hyottoko Mask
Sit alongside a local craftsman and bring a blank traditional mask to life with your own brushwork. Using traditional colors and patterns as inspiration, paint your own expression onto the mask while learning basic techniques from the artisan. No previous artistic experience is needed—simply enjoy the process and create a mask that reflects your personality.
Traditional Performance & Stories from the Craftsman
Hyottoko Dance Performance & Conversation
Watch an energetic and humorous traditional dance performed by an experienced local artisan. After the performance, sit down for a relaxed conversation and hear firsthand stories about the craft, the community, and a lifetime spent preserving local traditions. It is a rare opportunity to connect with the living culture of Takashiba through both performance and personal exchange.
Free Time & Local Shopping
Once your mask is finished, it will be dried and prepared for you to take home. During your free time, browse the workshop and local shop for traditional folk crafts and unique souvenirs. Take your handmade mask home as a one-of-a-kind reminder of your time in Takashiba Folk Art Village.
Important Information & Cancellation Policy
Important
Information &
Cancellation Policy
Important Notes:
– Paint can be difficult to remove from clothing, so we recommend wearing clothing that you do not mind getting stained.
– The workshop contains valuable traditional artworks and exhibits. Please walk carefully and quietly while inside the museum and workshop.
– The tour is conducted primarily in Japanese, with basic English assistance available.
Cancellation Policy:
– A 5% system cancellation fee will be charged for cancellations made for personal reasons after booking.
– 7 days before departure: 30%
– 3 days before departure: 50%
– 1 day before departure and on the day of departure: 100%
