Looking for a cool way to beat the heat and become a fan of traditional Japanese craftsmanship? Look no further than the Boshu Uchiwa workshops in Minamiboso and Tateyama City. These hands-on fan-making workshops offer a unique experience during your visit to Japan.
Boshu Uchiwa is a traditional Japanese fan made using bamboo and Japanese paper, and it’s one of three Japan’s most famous uchiwa fans. Recognized as a national traditional handicraft, the fan-making process involves 21 steps, from selecting the raw bamboo to adding the finishing touches. At “Uchiwa-no-Ota-ya” in Minamiboso City, visitors can experience the fan-making process for themselves under the guidance of a skilled craftsman.
The experience involves “pasting,” “cutting,” and “Heri-attaching,” and takes around an hour and a half to complete. The materials used are sourced from the Boshu region, with the female bamboo coming from Funakata in Tateyama City. Not only can visitors learn about the history and culture of the region, but they can also take home their very own handmade Uchiwa fan.
If you’re interested in learning more about Uchiwa fans, “Uchiwa-no-Ota-ya” also offers workshops on making Edo Uchiwa fans. These traditional fans were originally made in Tokyo during the Edo period and were popularized as “picture fans” featuring portraits of Kabuki actors, beautiful women, and landscapes. Ota-ya moved to Boshu due to the war and continues to produce these fans in the area.
In addition to the fan-making experience, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in Minamiboso and Tateyama City. Participants can make preserved foods and seasonings using ingredients unique to the satoyama, go beachcombing on the sandy beaches of the Cape Taibusa Nature Park to collect various kinds of flotsam and jetsam, such as shells and sea glass. All of these activities provide opportunities to learn about the history and culture of the region and take home souvenirs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the craftsmanship and history of Boshu Uchiwa fan making. Book your hands-on workshop today and take home a unique and eco-friendly souvenir and see why Boshu Uchiwa is a fan-tastic traditional Japanese craft!