Service provided by TABICA

Bamboo, Pressed Flowers, and Paper — the Art of Fan Making

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HIGHLIGHTS

Learn to Make Traditional Uchiwa Paddle Fans from a 5th Generation Master #cc1000075

Apprentice for a few hours in the authentic method of “Ogose” style bamboo-fan making
Taste fresh plums from one of Japan’s most famous plum groves, the Ogose Plum Forest
Your handmade Ogose-Fan doubles as a take home, one-of-a-kind souvenir

2.5 hour total
English
Age 3+
1 〜 8

YOUR HOST

Hiroyuki SHIMANO

My name is Shimano Hiroyuki, and my family has been making traditional bamboo fans by hand for the past 5 generations. I first learned the craft as a small child, and although the modern age has brought with it electric fans and air conditioners, I am delighted to say that I have been able to teach people the art of making traditional uchiwa fans in our workshop for the past 25 years. Using carefully pressed flowers, and a restrained sense of aesthetics (less is often much more when it comes to creating an elegant fan), we are preserving not only our family’s proud heritage, but also a famous Japanese tradition, engaging our visitors with something that transcends time and technology. I run my workshops every day except Mondays, and in my time off, I play in a band — I’ve been an electric bass player for the past 40 years! Electric is definitely good for music, but for fans, I think I will always prefer the uchiwa!

WHAT TO EXPECT

Flower blossoms, like memories, are fleeting and delicate. But what if you could capture the ineffable beauty of both in one object? Well, you can! At the Fan Workshop in Ogose (Saitama), learn to create stunning uchiwa (paddle fans) using bamboo, rice paper, and pressed flowers. Under the masterful guidance of Mr. Shimano Hiroyuki, you will spend about an hour creating a beautiful and functional memento of your time in Japan. Afterwards, take time to explore the rural horticultural town, and soak in the beautiful natural surroundings of Saitama prefecture — you’ll hardly believe that such a peaceful, timeless place exists so close to the bustle of Tokyo!

Meet your host at his shop.
He will teach you the history of his store and craft.

It's time to make your own fan!
Use beautiful pressed flowers made by the host.

Mr Shimano will guide you step by step.
Finish your "uchiwa" by cutting it with a special knife.

Duration

2.5h
Access
Participants Guests

1 〜 8

Trip will be cancelled if the required minimum number of participants is not met. Accompanied infants participate for free.
Age

3+
Conditions

Available on Clear or Lightly Rainy Days
Cancellation Policy

We are unable to refund cancellations made after 17:00, 3 days prior to your reserved date.

PRICES

Adults(12+)

¥10,000〜
Children(4～11)

¥6,000〜
Infants(～3)

Free

Included in the Price

Lesson fee Experience Interpreter Insurance Fan

NOTES

Things to bring

N/A
Meeting Point

740-1 Egoshi, ooji, Egoshi, Irima, Saitama
Additional Info

Please note that your reservation with us may be canceled due to inclement weather conditions or heavy rain. If so, we will contact you at least one hour prior to your reservation via your original booking site.