資料1
英語版企画書【English】
１ Creating One-of-a-Kind Pottery Pieces with Only Natural Materials
２ Hot Spring Resort with a Variety of Water Sources: A spot where the locals love to relax
３ Tsugaru style Kokeshi Dolls: A Fusion of Tradition and “Kawaii”
４ Kuroishi Neputa – A Traditional Summer Festival on Komise Street
５ Tsugaru Nuri - The Beauty of Lacquer Created through Coating and Polishing

６ Enjoy Japan's Local Performing Arts: Dances, Songs, and Musical Instruments
７ The only shoemaker in Japan that offers custom shoes made of 100% natural rubber
８ Enjoy vegan cuisine even outside Tokyo – Kuroishi City
９ Walk Historic Japanese Streets with a Local Guide
10 New Specialty “Kokeshi Lantern” - A fusion of traditional kokeshi style and Neputa
techniqueName: Tsugaru Ujoyaki
Place: Tsugaru Ujoyaki Pottery Studio

1 Creating One-of-a-Kind Pottery Pieces with Only Natural Materials

Introduction：
The beauty of nature born from fire. Charming, glasslike
colours and flowing patterns are distinctive features ofTsugaru Ujoyaki. The 103 meter long climbing kiln - which
took over 20 years to build - holds the Guinness World Record
for the longest climbing kiln.

【Selling point】
The beauty of natural glazed wares can be seenin countless Ujoyaki works.

Rikei Imai’s Heian period(A.D.794-1185) inspired jar.

● Overview of Contents and Facilities
Rikei Imai, a master potter with a career spanning over 40 years opened Tsugaru Ujoyaki in
Kuroishi City in 1996. He started pottery out of fascination for jars from the Heian period (AD 7941185). Based on the concept that the world is composed of sky, wind, fire, water, and earth, Rikei
uses only natural materials, ancient techniques and does not use artificial glazes to makenaturally glazed pottery. When artificial glazes are used, the desired colours can be brought out.
However, natural glazing - where the ash from the firewood lands and then melts and flows on
the surface of the works – brings forth the colours and patterns of nature. Be it small cups or large
vessels exceeding one metre in height, natural glazing yields truly unique pieces.

★

Keywords

pottery, ceramics, natural glaze, beauty of Japan, Guinness World Records, the world's
best, climbing kiln, handmade, power of nature

Tsugaru Ujoyaki Pottery Studio’s climbing kiln stretches far up
the slope of a mountain. Construction commenced in 1996,
with Rikei Imai aiming to make it the world's longest climbing
kiln. It was completed in 2018, and in 2019 recognised by the
Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s longest
climbing kiln. The kiln is comprised of a total of 52 linked
chambers.
In 2018, Rikei’s son, Yasunori, joined the production team andis now practicing to succeed his father. Apart from continuingon his father’s skills, Yasunori also shares the wonders ofTsugaru Ujoyaki by teaching pottery both online, and tochildren at local welfare facilities.

Photographic Record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Tsugaru Ujoyaki Studio is located halfway up themountain.

Display of completed pieces (purchasable)

The world's longest climbing kiln (103 metres)

The kiln is lit and the pieces are fired. The
temperature inside is approximately 1,300°C .

The climbing kiln was recognized as the world’s longest
by the Guinness Book of World Records in 2019.

Rikei Imai (right) andhis successor, Yasunori Imai (left)

Additional Information

Characteristics

・Natural glazed pottery made entirely withnatural ingredients and ancient techniques
・Guiness Book of World Record recognised
climing kiln (103m)
・Kiln is fired twice a year
Natural Glazing:
Inside the hot kiln, the wood used to fire thekiln turns to ash and falls onto the pottery likesnow. As the temperature of the kiln continues
to increase, the ash itself melts and becomesglasslike.
Climbing Kiln:
Multiple vertically linked chambers where theflames burn as if they’re pushing upwards.

Connections withthe community
・Started community pottery classes
・At the joint Tsugaru Tea Ceremony Museum,
there is a tea ceremony equipment exhibit, andmatcha can be enjoyed with traditional
Japanese sweets.

Prospects

・Actively participating in international trade
fairs to increase name recognition.

To purchaseand experience・Pottery making experiences start at 8,000 yen
・Online pottery making experiences start at 11,000
yenTsugaru Ujoyaki
https://ujoyaki.base.shop/

Address andOther information
Tsugaru Ujoyaki
Address：Oinomori 27-109 Toyooka, Kuroishi,
Aomori
Tel：+81172-53-3082
Operating hours：10:00〜18:30 (Closed Tuesdays)
Facility entrance and gallery: Free
Old Pottery and Ceramics Museum:
Adults: 600 yen
Primary and Middle School Students: 300 yen
https://www.ujoyaki.jp/en/

Access
Tsugaru Ujōyaki
By car35 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station. (Use Tohoku Expressway.
toll road)
5 minutes from the Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway
By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station. (Changing
to the Konan Railway Konan Line at Hirosaki Station) Take the Konan
Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. At Kuroishi Station take the bus
bound for Nurukawa (15 minutes ride). Get off at Yamagata Hoikusho
Mae. The studio is a 10 minute walk from the bus station.
Buses to the area run only fourtimes a day, so it is recommended
to rent a car from Shin-Aomori
Station or Aomori Airport.
As pottery pieces can be fragile,
taking a car is a convenient way totransport purchases.

https://g.page/ujoyaki?share

Read with your smartphone's camera
to see Google Map

２Hot Spring Resort with a Variety of Water Sources:
A spot where the locals love to relax.

Name: Kuroishi Hot Spring Resort
Location: Nuruyu Onsen, Itadome Onsen, Ochiai Onsen, etc.

Introduction：
Kuroishi has many hot springs with different attributes, andalso has public bathhouses which are used by many locals ona daily basis. Visitors are also welcome to participate in toji
(hot spring therapy), where one takes a long stay at a hot
spring to take in the healing benefits of the water and torelieve fatigue. The traditional townscape is also there to beenjoyed.
Nuruyu Onsen Public BathUshiyu Festival●Overview of the Contents and Facilities
Aomori Prefecture has the most public bathhouses in Japan (per 100,000 people). Most
bathhouses offer 100% natural hot spring water. Kuroishi has several water sources, and 4 hotspring areas: Nuruyu, Itadome, Ochiai and Aoni. All of the waters are crystal clear, and different
areas have different qualities: Aoni’s water is simple (meaning the mass of dissolved ingredientsare 1,000mg/lg or lower and the temperature is 25°C or above), Itadome’s is sulphate (the massof dissolved ingredients consist primarily of sulfate and are 1,000mg/lg or greater), and Nuruyu’s
is chloride (the the mass of dissolved ingredients is primarily chloride and is 1,000mg/lg or
greater). The waters help with recovery from fatigue, and poor blood circulation.
In these charming old hot spring resorts there are old Japanese guest houses, and visitors canenjoy the public bathhouses, where locals enjoy a nice hot bath on a daily basis. Visitors are also
welcome to participate in toji (hot spring therapy), where one takes a long stay at a hot spring totake in the healing benefits of the water.
★ Keywords
hot spring , hot spring therapy, public bathhouse, 100% natural hot spring,【Selling point】
Kuroishi’s hot spring villages are abundant with various types of hot
spring water.
Early in the morning, nearby farmers and residents use the bath torelax and unwind.
Toji is a type of hot spring therapy, where one takes a long stay at a
hot spring to take in the healing benefits of the water. Usually, the guest
is accommodated in a simple lodging called a "Kyakusha" (only theroom is provided. Guests are left to prepare their own meals).
In the Nuruyu area, an area with a history of over 400 years, a
traditional festival called Ushiyu Festival (ushi = ox, yu = hot bath) is
held every year in mid-July. At the festival, the float bearing the sacred
body of an Ox proceeds through the town. It is said that if you touch thesacred body and then touch an unwell part of yourself, you will be cured.
On the day, the town gets quite lively.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Exterior of Nuruyu Onsen Public BathThe baths inside Nuruyu Onsen Public BathThe sacred body of the Ox revered at the Ushiyu
Festival

A Kyakusha for people seeking to do Toji

Map of the Nuruyu area in 1870s

Some inns in town are over 100 years old

Additional Information

Characteristics【Hot springs】
・The villages have a variety of water sources and hot
springs with different qualities.
・The hot springs are within walking distance from theriver.
・Day trips into the hot springs are possible
・Old Japanese streets, shrines and temples are nearby
・There are kyakusha for Toji
【When bathing】
・You must bathe naked.
*Bathing suits are not allowed.
・Cheap (250 yen per person)

Connections with the community

・Traditional event "Ushiyu Festival" held in midJuly
・The sacred body of the Ox is bathed. Many
people come because the admission to the bathis free on this day.
・The locals use the hot spring on a daily basis.

Prospects

To purchase and experience

Nuruyu Onsen Public BathOperating hours: 5:00 - 22:00 (admission until 21:30)
Open all year round
Bathing fee: 250 yen for adults, 100 yen for children(free of charge for children under 3 years old)

Address and other information
Nuruyu Onsen Public Bath・Can be positioned as an opportunity toexperience a hot spring lifestyle like a local.
・English signage can be increased.

Address: 79 Tsuruizumi, Oaza Nuruyu, Kuroishi City,
AomoriTel: +81172-54-8591
https://www.nuruyuonsen.com/
For information on other hot spring facilities, visit the
Kuroishi Tourist Association website
https://kuroishi.or.jp/english/en-top

Access
Nuruyu Onsen Public Bath Tsuru no Meitou
By car40 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin Aomori Station via the Tohoku
Expressway (toll road)
10 minutes from the Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku
Expressway
By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. At
Kuroishi Station take the bus bound for Nurukawa. Get off at the
Shimo Nuruyu. 5 minute walk from Shimo Nuruyu.

Bus service to the area is limited,
so traveling by car is a convenient
option.
The public bathhouse is a shortwalk from the inns in the village.

https://goo.gl/maps/8nziQCi2pydALgjJ6

Scan for Google Maps

Contents.:Tsugaru style Kokeshi
Location: Abo Kokeshi Shop,
Tsugaru Kokeshi Museum

3 Tsugaru style Kokeshi Dolls: A Fusion of Tradition and “Kawaii”

Introduction:
With gentle smiles on their face and vibrantpatterns on their bodies, kokeshi dolls represent thecharm and grace brought about in this cold, snowy
land. Tsugaru style kokeshi dolls are a pride and joy
of Kuroishi, and are truly unique.
Traditional Tsugaru style kokeshi dolls
created by Mr. Masafumi Abo.

"Apple kokeshi" designed and createdby Mr. Masafumi Abo.

●Outlines of the Contents and Facilities
The origins of Kokeshi dolls are not entirely clear. One story says that woodworkers living in the
Tohoku region’s hot spring areas began making them as souvenirs or children’s toys during thelate Edo period. The dolls that have been made for over a century are known as traditional
kokeshi. There are 11 styles of traditional kokeshi, and the people who make them are calledkokeshi artisans. The traditional kokeshi style of Aomori Prefecture is known as the Tsugaru styleand has its origins in the Kuroishi Onsen Area. In the Tsugaru style, the dolls are carved out of a

【Selling point】
Masafumi Abo is a young kokeshi artisan specialising in Tsugaru style works. He
started his apprenticeship at age 22 under his father, Muchihide Abo. Together they run
the Abo Kokeshi Shop. While striving to pass on the traditions of Tsugaru style kokeshi
to future generations, Masafumi uses his imagination to produce different Kokeshi in the
pursuit of what can become the new. . Be it a modern interpretation of Chinese Zodiac
kokeshi (an idea originally of his father), or the Kokeshi with their faces popping out ofsweets, his cute designs are rather popular amongst young women. Among these, his
signature piece is the apple kokeshi – a kokeshi wearing an apple beret. The Abo
Kokeshi Shop is located near the Tsugaru Kokeshi Museum. The museum features
displays of kokeshi dolls from all over the Tohoku region, live demonstrations of kokeshi
being made, kokeshi painting workshops, and also offers kokeshi for sale. The museum
also holds more than 20 events throughout the year, including the "All-Japan Traditional
Kokeshi Craftsmen Festival" every autumn.

single piece of wood. The dolls are painted with a bob cut, and their bodies are often adorned withBodhidharma’s face and/or a peony, which was the family crest of the Tsugaru clan, the rulers of
the area during the Edo period. Renowned woodblock printmaker Shikō Munakata admired thekokeshi made by Mr. Hidetaro Mori (the creator of Tsugaru style kokeshi), considering them "thebest in the country”.

★Keywords
Tsugaru, traditional kokeshi dolls, Tsugaru style kokeshi dolls,
kokeshi artisans, the Tohoku region, peony, daruma doll, woodworkers,
Nuruyu, Hidetaro Mori, Shiko Munakata

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Chinese zodiac kokeshi dolls made by Mr.
Masafumi Abo.

The kokeshi being carved from a single piece ofwood is a distinctive feature of the Tsugaru style.

The Girl’s Day Festival Kokeshi exhibition at the Tsugaru
Kokeshi Museum, just one of many events the museum
holds throughout the year.

The Tsugaru Kokeshi Museum opened in 1988.

At the Tsugaru Kokeshi Museum visitors can try painting kokeshi
under the guidance of a craftsman.

There are 4,000 kokeshis on display at the Tsugaru Kokeshi
Museum.The total number of dolls on display and for saleexceeds 10,000.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

A demonstration at the Tsugaru Kokeshi
Museum.

Additional Information

Characteristics
Tsugaru style kokeshi dolls
・A traditional handicraft from Northeast Japan・Made by an artisan by hand from a single
piece of wood
Abo Kokeshi Shop・Two generations of craftsmen
・Father: With around 50 years of experience,
Muchihide continues the ways of traditional
kokeshi.
・Son: Masafumi focuses on designing creating
new, creative kokeshi.
Tsugaru Kokeshi Museum
・A comprehensive kokeshi facility
Approximately 4,000 Kokeshi are on display inthe exhibit.
Japan’s largest kokeshi is on display.
Live kokeshi making demonstrations andkokeshi painting experiences are available.
Traditional kokeshi, kokeshi related good andother items are available for saleConnections withthe community
・Kokeshi can be found in most homes inKuroishi.
・In recent years, kokeshi have been
particularly popular with women in their 20s40s.

Prospects

・Original requests are possible（Made via the
Tsugaru Kokeshi Musuem)

To purchaseand experience

Tsugaru Kokeshi Museum
Kokeshi Painting Experience: 1,200 yen
Entry・Live kokeshi making demonstration: Free
※Second floor exhibit: Adults – 320 yen
Online shop http://tsugarukokeshi.com/shop

Address andOther information
Tsugaru Kokeshi Museum
Address: 72-1, Fukuro Toyama, Kuroishi
City,Aomori
Phone: 0172-54-8181
Operating hours: 9:00-17:00
http://tsugarukokeshi.com

AcccesTsugaru Kokeshi Museum
By car60 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station.
10 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange via the Tohoku
Expressway (tolls apply)
By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. At
Kuroishi Station take the bus bound for Nurukawa. Get off at the
Tsugaru Densho Kogei Kan (Tsugaru Traditional Craft Center).

As there are few busses
from the city centre to thisarea, travelling by car may
be more convenient.
There are many guest
houses and hot springs in
the area. Walking between
guest houses and this area
is possible.
Scan for Google Maps

https://goo.gl/maps/1PD1MAymaW65g1QZ6

Name of the event/spot: Kuroishi Neputa
Location: Downtown Kuroishi City

４ Kuroishi Neputa – A Traditional Summer Festival on Komise Street

Introduction：
In Kuroishi Neputa, both doll-shaped and fan-shaped floats proceed
through the historic Komise Street, a place that will make you feel likeyou’ve traveled back in time to the Edo period. It is the earliest summer
festival in the prefecture, and is run mainly by the local communities.

Intricate artworks are a key characteristicof Kuroishi Neputa

A parade through historic streets●Outline of the Contents and the Facilities
Neputa/Nebuta are Aomori Prefecture’s representative summer festivals. They have a richhistory in the Tsugaru region. Traditionally, the floats, styled in the shape of fans, dolls, oranimals are lit from inside and parade throughout the city. The festival is said to be a blend of
the Chinese influenced Japanese event Tanabata, and traditional Tsugaru events. The styles
differ from area to area: Aomori City’s Nebuta floats are doll shaped, whereas Hirosaki City’s
Neputa floats, often said to be the original form of the festival, are fan shaped. Being able toenjoy both variants of floats is one of the hallmarks of Kuroishi Neputa. The floats can be seen
up very close as they proceed along the city roads and Komise Street (a cosy, old street with
Edo period architecture), making for a captivating experience.

★Keywords
tradition, summer festival, Edo period, parade, floats, musical accompaniment, taiko,ougi neputa, ningyo neputa, Neputa painting, Aomori Prefectural Intangible Folk
Cultural Property

Selling pointAt the Kuroishi Neputa Festival, you can enjoy both "ningyo (doll-shaped)
neputa" and "ougi (fan-shaped) neputa". The floats parading along Komise
Street allows one to become deeply immersed with the atmosphere ofJapanese summer festivals. This cosy, old street, along with the other streetsin the city centre place the floats and the spectators very close to each other.
The closeness allows for the sound of the music and drums, along with the artof the floats to all be felt more intensely. The closeness also enables the artists
to create more intricate designs that astute spectators can take in. The
participants are mainly local communities and volunteer groups. Each year inJune, the groups construct temporary neputa workshops, where the floats arebuilt and other preparations take place. Kuroishi Neputa also stands out fromthe other festivals through its sound, with its distinctive chant “Yaare YaareYa”, and traditional music. The festival takes place on the 30th of July every
year, earlier than other Neputa/Nebuta festivals in the prefecture. Many places
throughout the city display colourful Neputa paintings, so you can enjoy a bit of
the festival even outside of festival season.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Neputa floats parading through Komise Street

Doll shaped floats can be seen

Neputa can be experienced up close on Komise
StreetNeputa floats lined up in Miyuki Park awaiting
the start of the parade

Many local children participate in the festival

Floats are displayed at restaurants andsouvenir shops throughout Kuroishi

Additional Information

Characteristics

・A festival with over 200 years of history
・Parades with both fan shaped and doll shaped
floats are a unique characteristic of Kuroishi
Neputa・Vibrant colours
・Around 50 participating floats
・As many of the streets are narrow, theparading floats can be experienced up closefrom the side of the road.
・The festival parade runs from 18:30 to 22:00
on 30th July and 2nd August every year.

Connections withthe community
・Local communities and groups participate in
the parade.
・From children to adults, many locals
participate
・Music practice for the festival begins in June atvarious spots in the city
・Neputa paintings are displayed in the Kuroishi
Civic Cultural Hall lobby, Kuroishi City Officelobby, and restaurants throughout the city.

To purchaseand experience

・The parade can be watched for free (paid seats
are also available).

Prospects

Address andOther information

・There are souvenir making experiences using
Neputa artwork.

Kuroishi Junior Chamber
Address: Sangyo Kaikan 3F, 5-2 Ichinomachi,
Kuroishi City, Aomori
Phone: +81-172- 52-3369 (Kuroishi Junior
Chamber)
Homepage: https://k-jc.com/neputa/

Access
Miyuki ParkBy car30 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station.
10 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway

Traffic is often congested not only during the festival but before
and afterwards. Public transportation is recommended.
By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. 10
minutes walk from Kuroishi Station.

https://goo.gl/maps/H7BWiEbBVy4ZWf2S7

Scan for Google Maps

5 Tsugaru Nuri - The Beauty of Lacquer Created through Coating and Polishing

Name: Tsugaru Nuri
Location: Tsugaru Traditional Craft Centre

Introduction ：Tsugaru Nuri is designated as a traditional craft by the Japanese
government. It stands out amongst other Japanese crafts for its
togidashi method, in which the lacquer is repeatedly applied andpolished. The gloss and patterns that emerge from the layers oflacquer reflect the magnificence unique to Tsugaru Nuri.

Selling points
Chopsticks, trays, bowls, and other tableware
are standard items of Tsugaru Nuri.

Close-up of Karanuri, a representative
Tsugaru Nuri lacquering technique● Overview of Contents and Facilities
Tsugaru Nuri dates back approximately 300 years. In order to help develop local
industries, the lord of the Hirosaki Clan in the Tsugaru region invited artisans from otherregions to the area, eventually leading to the creation of Tsugaru Nuri. A distinctive
feature of Tsugaru Nuri is the process of togidashi, in which lacquer is applied to thesurface of unpainted wood, and then polished. The process of togidashi is done morethan 40 times over the course of two months before the piece is completed. Tsugaru Nuri
patterns can be categorised as Kara Nuri, Nanako Nuri, Monsha Nuri, or Nishiki Nuri , thedifferences between each being a result of the production process used.
Tsugaru Nuri lacquerware is durable and practical, and is mainly used for tablewaresuch as bowls and plates, and tables.
★ Keywords
Hirosaki Castle, Tsugaru Clan, Edo Period, Lacquer, Tsugaru nuri, Traditional
craftsmanship, Craftsmen, Kara nuri, Nanako nuri, Monsha nuri, Nishiki nuri

Tsugaru Nuri is a representative of Japanese handicraft. Tsugaru Nuri
crafts can be purchased at Tsugaru Traditional Craft Centre. The worksof Toshihiro Kudo, a nationally recognised traditional craftsman with over
40 years of experience are on display at the facility. In addition topracticing traditional techniques, he also enthusiastically creates works
using other materials such as glass and pottery. He has also produced
many works by combining Tsugaru Nuri with other crafts (such as
Kokeshi dolls). In recent years he has also been recreating patterns thathaven’t been produced since long ago.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Tsugaru style Kokeshi with a lacquered body
(produced in collaboration with Kokeshi craftsmen).

Tableware and other pieces are available forpurchase at the studio.

The production process can be observed.

Sample plates showing patterns from the Edo period.
The expressive designs are different to what isnormally thought of as Tsugaru Nuri.

A lacquered Ujoyaki plate (foreground)

Neputa paintings made with Tsugaru Nuri techniquePhotographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Nationally recognised Tsugaru Nuri artisan
Toshihiro Kudo.

Tsugaru Nuri mobile phone cases.

Tsugaru Nuri chopsticks are a popular souvenir.

The production process is displayedin the workshop.

The process of “togidashi”: Applying andsanding the lacquer.

Plenty of tableware is available at affordable prices.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Kara Nuri: The most basic formof Tsugaru Nuri. Speckled
patterns can be seen throughthe colours of multiple layers oflacquer.
A perforated spatula holding
lacquer is applied to makespots on the vessel surface.
Other colors of lacquer arethen added one by one. Whenthe layers are polished, vibrant,
abstract patterns appear.

Nanako Nuri: A design withcountless small round patterns.
Nanako Nuri’s patterns comefrom a technique that uses
rapeseeds to produce the smallround patterns. First, lacquer isapplied and then rapeseeds areevenly applied to the piece.
Once the lacquer has dried, theseeds are removed leaving
behind uneven craters. Lacquer
is applied again. Upon
polishing, the beautiful smallround pattern is brought forth.

Monsha Nuri: A technique inwhich different shades of black
are used to highlight thepatterns.
After the motif is laid out inblack lacquer, charcoal powder
is smeared over the entire
surface. When it is sanded, jetblack images appear on amatte black background. This
technique is unique to Tsugaru
Nuri and cannot be seen in any
other area.

Nishiki Nuri: Intricate designs
are layered on a Nanako Nuri
base.
Arabesque and other designs
that have been passed down
for generations in Japan
Japanese are drawn on thebase of Nanako Nuri. It’s a stylethat takes time and effort tocomplete.

Additional Information

Characteristics

Tsugaru Nuri
・A local handicraft with over 300 years ofhistory
・4 distinct variants
・The lacquer’s finish, feel and pattern have a
distinct “Japanese” quality
・Apart from tableware such as chopsticks,
lacquered pendants, broaches and other items
are also madeTsugaru Traditional Craft Center・Tsugaru Nuri is available for sale. Production
observations, and Tsugaru Nuri making
experiences are also available.

Connections withthe community
・Locals have a strong familiarity with Tsugaru
Nuri. Many homes in the Tsugaru region have
Tsugaru Nuri items.
・Requests by people to have items they
regularly use lacquered are increasing.

Prospects

・Collaborations with other handicrafts (Such as
Tsugaru style Kokeshi and Ujoyaki pottery etc)

To purchaseand experience
・Can be purchased at the Tsugaru Traditional
Craft Center・Tsugaru Nuri making experiences: from 1,500
yen (inquiry required)・Tsugaru Nuri explanation and making
experience: from 3,000 yen（Reservations: https://k2w.jp）

Address andOther information
Tsugaru Traditional Craft Center
Address: Tomiyama-65-1 Fukuro, Kuroishi
City, Aomori
Tel: +81172-59-5304
Hours: 9:00〜17:00
http://en.tsugarudensho.com/

Access【 Tsugaru Traditional Craft Center 】【 By car 】
40 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station via the Tohoku Expressway(toll road)
10 minutes from the Kuroishi Interchange on the Tohoku
Expressway (toll road)【 By train and bus 】
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
(Changing to the Konan Railway Konan Line at Hirosaki Station)
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. At
Kuroishi Station take the bus bound for Nurukawa. Get off at the
Tsugaru Densho Kogei Kan.
There are many lodging facilities and hot
springs within walking distance.
For a day trip, it may be best to comeby car.
In addition to Tsugaru Nuri, the Tsugaru
Traditional Craft Centre offers a wide
variety of souvenirs. Food is alsoavailable.
Next to the Centre is the Tsugaru
Kokeshi Museum.
Scan for Google Maps

https://goo.gl/maps/LHHpwpb4T3S24gVi6

６ Enjoy Japan's Local Performing Arts: Dances, Songs, and Musical Instruments

Name: Kuroishi Yosare, Tsugaru Shamisen,
Teodori (hand dancing)
Location: Kuroishi City

Introduction:
Kuroishi City has a culture of enjoying local performing arts
such as Kuroishi Yosare dances, Tsugaru folk songs andTeodori dances, and Tsugaru Shamisen. These arts are not
only enjoyed by the citizens but are also being shared bothacross Japan and overseas. With their elegance, vigor, andmagnificence, they’re charming inside and outside Japan,
attracting audiences with their elegance, power, and splendor.

(from the left) Kuroishi Yosare, Tsugaru Teodori, Tsugaru Shamisen,● Overview of the Contents and Facilities
1) Kuroishi Yosare is a traditional Japanese folk dance, has its origins in a love song from roughly 500
to 600 years ago. It gradually transformed into and spread as a Bon Odori, a traditional form of dance
performed during Obon (a Japanese Buddhist festival to honor the spirits of ancestors) in mid-August.
In 1958, the present day "Mawari Odori" (dancing around a tower) and "Nagashi Odori" (dancing
through the city) dances were choreographed. In 1982, the National Folk Dance Federation of Japan
designated Kuroishi Yosare as one of the three major Nagashi Odori dances in Japan Kuroishi
Yosare is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan.
2) Tsugaru Teodori (hand dancing) was first performed by a man who took pity on his wife who wasbeing bullied by her mother-in-law. To comfort her, he dressed as a woman and danced in a feminine
way. The hand choreography of this dance is supple and feminine, and the dancers make use of fans
and Japanese umbrellas.
3) The Tsugaru Shamisen is a stringed instrument resembling a guitar that’s played to accompany
Tsugaru region's folk songs. It is played using a bachi (a large plectrum) to pluck the strings in analmost slap-like manner, producing a percussive plucked sound. This instrument is used to play theaccompanying music for Kuroishi’s the Tsugaru Teodori dance. Primary school children in Kuroishi
learn how to dance Kuroishi Yosare, and are also familiar with the Tsugaru Teodori dance andTsugaru Shamisen.

Selling point
In mid-August, during the Kuroishi Yosare Festival, dancers in yukatas(a light cotton kimono) line up and dance through the town.It’s free towatch and join, and one can also rent a yukata. Tsugaru Shamisen andTsugaru Teodori performances can also be enjoyed at the festival.

★ Keywords
Traditional performing arts, folk songs, Tsugaru Shamisen, Kuroishi
Yosare, Tsugaru folk songs and Tsugaru Teodori dance, Bon dance,
folk dance, Japanese musical instruments

Photographic records (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Kuroishi Yosare’s Nagashi Odori proceeding throughthe city

Live Tsugaru Shamisen music can be enjoyed atvarious locations across Kuroishi.

Japanese umbrellas and fans are used in the
Tsugaru Teodori dance.

Learn traditional Tsugaru dances throughan intensive course.

The Kuroishi folk song and dance team

A historic document depicting older ways of how
Teodori was once performed.

Additional Information

Characteristics

Connection with the community

・Kuroishi Yosare, Tsugaru Teodori, and Tsugaru
Shamisen are three traditional Japanese
performing arts.
Kuroishi Yosare Festival
・The festival is held every year on the 14th and15th of August.
・2,000 dancers participate in the Nagashi Odori
dance・The dances are simple enough for spectators tojoin in on the spot.
Tsugaru Teodori
・Teodori can be seen at Kuroishi Yosare Festival.
・An intensive Tsugaru Teodori dance course (3days, 4 nights) is held every year in October.
Participants from overseas are also welcome. (Forinquiries contact the Kuroishi Tourist Association)
Tsugaru Shamisen・Live performances are held at the Tsugaru
Komise Eki and the Tsugaru Traditional Craft
Museum.

・Most locals know how to dance Yosare, as they
are taught how in Primary school.

To participate
Kuroishi Yosare
・No charge to watch.
・A Kuroishi Yosare Tour is available for 5,000 yen perperson. The fee includes yukata rental and a meal.
For more information, contact the Yokomachi Jumonji
Machisodate Kai.
https://kuroishi-machisodate.com/tour_yosare/
For Tsugaru Teodori and Tsugaru Shamisen
Contact the Kuroishi Tourist Association.

Prospects

・Performances at hotels and other facilities arebeing planned.

住所他

Kuroishi Tourist Association
Address: 1-187 Midori-cho, Kuroishi City, Aomori
Tel: +81172-52-3488
https://kuroishi.or.jp/english/en-top

Access
Kuroishi Tourist Association
By car30 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station via the
Tohoku Expressway (toll road)
10 minutes from Kuroishi Inter Change on Tohoku
Expressway

By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. 1
minute walk from Kuroishi Station.

https://goo.gl/maps/k3Zcw75iQF6QJXwu6

Scan for Google MapsName: Bocco Shoes
Location: K Bocco K.K.

７ The only shoemaker in Japan that offers custom shoes
made of 100% natural rubber

Introduction：
Bocco Shoes are made of 100% natural rubber. These shoes were loved
by workers in Aomori for their excellent heat retention during the harsh
winters, but were discontinued decades ago. However, after never-ending
requests from longtime users, the store’s young president began productionof the boots again. No other city but Kuroishi produces these highly soughtafter rubber boots.

Bocco Shoes made of 100% natural rubber

Workshop located inside K Bocco Store(not open to the public)●Outline of the Contents and the Facilities
Bocco Shoes are winter boots made of 100% natural rubber, and were once widely used in
Aomori’s Tsugaru region during the Taisho and early Showa periods (early-mid 20th century).
Though loved by many apple farmers and hunters, the shoes were discontinued in the 1980s as
demand for natural rubber shoes decreased in favor of cheaper synthetic rubber shoes. When
Mr. Tsutomu Kudo took over the family shoe business as third generation owner, he realised that
there was still considerable local demand for the shoes. Starting by locating a natural rubber
supplier, in 10 years he was successfully able to reproduce the shoes after much trial and error
using his childhood memories and notes left by old shoemakers. As a unique, custom made item
these shoes are highly sought after, with orders coming in from all over Japan.
K Bocco K.K. has also developed items in collaboration with the major fashion brand BEAMS.
Demand is high for these shoes, and current waiting time from order to delivery is one and a halfyears.
BEAMS https://www.beams.co.jp/item/beams_japan/shoes/56310022596/?color=90★Keywords Bocco Shoes, handmade, handicraft, boots, durability, 100% natural rubber,
Japanese tradition, revival of tradition, folklore, craftsman, snow shoes, winter life, good oldthings【Selling point】
The boots were reproduced based on Mr. Kudo’s memories and the methods left
behind by former shoemakers. Sheets of 100% natural rubber are cut into 20
pieces by hand and made into a shoe. Scrap pieces are melted to be used asglue.
The boots receive praise for their excellent heat retention and durability, and arevery popular amongst farmers and hunters working long hours in the snow. One
story for the origin of the name comes from the fact that they are "warm likebasking in the sun (hinata boko)". Another story says the reason is because they
make a “boko boko” sound when worn.
In the store, you can try on sample boots in three different lengths and can placeorders. Cute Bocco Shoe key chains are also for sale in the store as well as othershops including Matsu no Yu Community Center. K Bocco’s workshop is open to
people on town walking tours.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Bocco Shoes displayed in store for people to try-on

Mr. Tsutomu Kudo, President of K Bocco

Because the shoes are handmade, the shoemaker
can only make one pair per day

A Mini Bocco Shoe key chain (1,500 yen).

Bocco shoes made by children

Bocco Shoes are a favourite of local farmers

Additional Information

Characteristics

・This is the only company in Japan that
manufactures and sells natural rubber boots.
・Bocco shoes are highly praised both for theirfunctionality as work shoes and for their ability
to maintain warmth.
・All the shoes are hand made to order・Have been used in the Tsugaru region for
close to 100 years
・K Bocco collaborates with fashion brand"BEAMS".

Connections withthe community
・Bocco shoes are highly praised both for theirfunctionality as work shoes and for their ability
to maintain warmth.
・Production of the shoes were started again
after strong demand from loyal customers.
・The workshop can be on visited town walking
tours.

Prospects

・Due to the time required to complete eachorder, speeding up the manufacturing process
would be beneficial

To purchaseand experience
Half-length type: 22,000 yen
Long type: 24,000 yen
Short type: 24,000 yen.
Larger size shoes will incur an additional cost.
Ribbons can be added for an extra 1,000 yen.
Overseas orders can be made via email.

Address andOther information
K BoccoAddress: 1-2 Yokomachi, Kuroishi City, Aomori
Phone: +81172-52-2181
Business hours: 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
(irregular holidays)
https://www.k-bocco.com/index.html
English page: not available

Access
K BoccoBy car30 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station.
10 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway

By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
(Changing to the Konan Railway Konan Line at Hirosaki Station)
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station.
10 minutes walk from Kuroishi Station.
Sample boots displayed in store are
not for sale. They are for trying on only.
Orders can be placed in store.

https://goo.gl/maps/YaBmtua3ZPm64not5

Scan for Google Maps

8 Enjoy vegan cuisine even outside Tokyo – Kuroishi City

Name: Vegan Cuisine
Location: Tabi no Yado Saikawa, Restaurant Miyuki, etc.

Introduction：
To accommodate diversified diets and eating habits, somerestaurants in Kuroishi offer vegan cuisines. A new vegan foodculture is taking root, where vegan cuisine is prepared with wild
vegetables and other ingredients from the local area.

Selling points
Four places serve vegan food in Kuroishi City:
Sample vegan dishes at Tabi no Yado Saikawa(including soy milk perilla leaf soup, frozen tofu karaage)●Overview of Contents and Facilities
In Kuroishi, vegan cooking workshops are held and a diverse lifestyle has been
embraced.
At Tabi no Yado Saikawa Japanese-style vegan cuisine (using ingredients such as
soybeans, vegetables, mushrooms, fruits, herbs, etc.) is served. Aoni Onsen offers
vegan dishes made with locally grown ingredients such as yam, konnyaku, tofu, and wild
vegetables (reservation required). Other restaurants in the city also provide vegan food.
Kuroishi’s vegan cuisines and restaurants can be found on HappyCow, the world's largest
vegetarian and vegan restaurant website.
https://www.happycow.net/★Keywords
vegans, vegetarianism, Japanese cuisine for vegans, HappyCow

Tabi no Yado Saikawa: A hot spring inn located in the Itadome hotspring area. It leads the movement for providing vegan food in Kuroishi.
Restaurant Miyuki: Serves a vegan version of popular local specialty,
Tsuyu Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles in soup) with soup made from kelp
and shiitake stock.

Jumonji Cafe: "Deep Fried Tofu Soup Curry (the tofu is used as a
substitute for chicken). The owner is from Malaysia, and the restaurant
also serves other Southeast Asian style foods.
Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen: Serves Japanese dishes made with wild
vegetables.

Tabi no Yado Saikawa and Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen serve a variety
of different dishes made using wild vegetables.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Sushi made with pickled vegetables instead of fish. (at Tabi no Yado
Saikawa)

Kuroishi's specialty, Tsuyu Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles in soup). The
soup is flavoured with shiitake mushrooms and kelp (at Restaurant
Miyuki)

Soup curry. Deep fried tofu is one of the ingredients(at Jumonji Cafe)

Traditional Japanese dinner, vegan style(Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen)

Vegan Tenzaru Udon - Udon noodles served on a zaru (a bamboo
draining basket) with tempura (at Restaurant Miyuki)

Tomato, cucumbers and other ingredients in a peanutsauce Soumen (Summer only) (at Jumonji Cafe)

Additional Information

Selling points
Tabi no Yado Saikawa
・Vegan cuisine prepared by the inn's hostess.
・The young hostess speaks English as she previously
lived in New York.
・The inn’s bath offers 100% natural hot spring water.
・There’s plenty of nature in the area, with the nearby
Nakano Momijiyama, and Mt. Hakkoda.
https://ryokansaikawa.com/

Connections withthe community

Reservations are required for all places.

・Sake from local sake breweries is served withmeals (at Tabi no Yado Saikawa, Restaurant
Miyuki, Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen)
・Meals include local wild vegetables

Restaurant Miyuki
・Japanese style restaurant that also serves Kuroishi
specialty Tsuyu Yakisoba (stir-fried noodles in soup)
・Tour groups are welcome.
https://www.miyuki.rest/restaurant
Jumonji Cafe
・Southeast Asian cuisine .
・The cafe is situated inside a renovated traditional
storage cellar.
http://kuroishi-machisodate.com/cafe.html
Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen
・Japanese cuisine is served (reservations required 2-3
days in advance).
・No electricity, no televisions, no mobile phone
reception.
・Kerosene lamps are the inn’s only form of lighting.
・Surrounded by nature.
https://www.aoninet.com/en/index.html

To purchase and experience

Prospects

・ Reservations are required at all restaurants,
for preparation purposes.

Tabi no Yado Saikawa: Meals are only available forguests staying at the inn
Restaurant Miyuki: Reservations are required at least one
day in advance.
Jumonji Café: Reservations are required at least one dayin advance.
Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen: Meals are only available forthe guests staying at the inn.

Address and other information【Tabi no Yado Saikawa】 TEL +81172-54-8308
8-1 Miyashita, Itadome, Kuroishi-city, Aomori【Restaurant Miyuki】 TEL +81172-52-2558
36 Nakamachi, Kuroishi-city, Aomori【Jumonji Cafe】 TEL +81 172-55-6782
33 Nakamachi, Kuroishi-city, Aomori【Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen】 TEL +81172-54-8588
1-7 Aonisawa Takinoue、Okiura, Kuroishi-city,
AomoriAccess
Tabi no Yado Saikawa
By car35 minutes from Aomori Airport
45 minutes from JR Shin-Aomori Station via Tohoku Expressway(toll road)
10 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway
By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
(Changing to the Konan Railway Konan Line at Hirosaki Station)
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. At
Kuroishi Station take the bus bound for Nurukawa. Get off at
Itadome.

https://goo.gl/maps/rNuX3tSadVDenJY16

Scan for Google Maps

Access
Jumonji Café
By car30 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from JR Shin-Aomori Station.
10 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway

By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
(Changing to the Konan Railway Konan Line at Hirosaki Station)
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. 5
minute walk from Kuroishi Station.
20 parking spaces are available.

https://goo.gl/maps/RsC7zUvE14UDJRHB6

Scan for Google Maps

Access
Restaurant Miyuki
By car30 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from JR Shin-Aomori Station.
10 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway

By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. 5
minutes walk from Kuroishi Station.

https://goo.gl/maps/TQtL8iafXYbASr3U6

Scan for Google Maps

Access
Lamp no Yado Aoni Onsen
By car60 minutes from Aomori Airport
80 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station via Tohoku Expressway(toll road)
30 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway
From December 1st to March 31st, due to the heavy snow,
shuttle between Nijinoko and Aoni Onsen are the only means oftransportation for the period.
Depending on the level of snow parking at the Nijinoko bus stop
may be unavailable, therefore it is recommended to take the bus
to Nijinoko.

By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori
Station to Hirosaki Station. (Changing
to the Konan Railway Konan Line at
Hirosaki Station) Take the Konan
Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi
Station. At Kuroishi Station take thebus bound for Nurukawa. Get off at
Nijinoko (40 minutes ride). Shuttle
buses to Aoni are available from
Nijinoko (20 minutes ride).
Scan for Google Maps

https://goo.gl/maps/yG4KmaCdCJBX4uJr6

９ Walk Historic Japanese Streets with a Local Guide

Name: Kuroishi walking tour
Location: Matsu no Yu Community Center

Introduction:
Explore the streets of Kuroishi where the spirit of old Japan lives,on tours guided by locals. Discover things you won’t learn inguidebooks and explore places you’d otherwise miss.

Walking through Komise Street

Japan's oldest active service fire engine● Overview of Contents and Facilities
The central area of Kuroishi has one of the oldest streets in the Tsugaru region. Here, astreet with a rare wooden arcade called Komise Street has long provided pedestrians
with shelter from winter snowstorms and the summer sun.
Three different walking tours are available to learn about the history, culture, andlifestyle of Kuroishi City. They are the back streets tour, traditional merchant houses tour,
and the Japanese garden tour. These tours are run by the Yokomachi Jumonji
Machisodate Kai, a group of about 20 locals mostly in their 30s to 50s. They run those
tours to share their love of Kuroishi with others. The group is based in Matsu no Yu
Community Center, a renovated former public bathhouse.
★Keyword
Downtown tour, guided tour, Komise Street, old streets

Selling point
By visiting the 270-year-old merchant house Takahashi Residence (aNationally Designated Important Cultural Property) as well as sakebreweries and other historic facilities, visitors can learn about the local
lifestyle. The Kuroishi Yosare experience tour is also available. There
are English and Chinese speaking staff provide tours for overseas
tourists.
The group’s activity hub, Matsu no Yu Community Center, is a former
public bathhouse that had been in business for about 100 years. It is
now a community space for tourists and the locals, with an eye-catching
350 year old pine tree protruding from its roof. Inside, one of the original
bathtubs is there, too.
Lanterns made from Neputa artwork are a popular item. They areavailable for purchase at Irodori (hands-on lantern making experiences
are also available here).

Photographic records (Can be used for commercial purpose)

A tour of old Japanese Buddhist temples.

Matsu no Yu Community Center, with its
grand pine tree (matsu = pine)

Trips to Japanese sake breweries are offered on sometours

On some tours, you can enter Komise Street’s
historic buildings.

Lanterns made with Neputa artwork are available atthe shop Irodori.

Public bathhouse turned community center,
Matsu no Yu Community Center (yu = hot water)

Additional Information

Selling point

・ With local guides, visitors can learn about thelifestyle and wisdom of the past.
・ Visitors can see places that are not usually
open to the public
・ Japanese gardens designated as historic sites
and scenic beauty are on tour.
・ Tours visiting festival related sites areavailable. (Kuroishi Neputa, Kuroishi Yosare,etc.)
・ Some tour staff can speak English andChinese.

Connections with thecommunity
・ Visitors can interact with locals throughguided tours.
・ Historic sake breweries and merchant houses
can be toured.

To purchase and experience
Three different tours are available
・ Back Street Tour (Kuroishi Machinaka Ura Meguri Tour)・ Traditional Merchant Houses Tour (Kuroishi Jinya Ato
Tour)・ Japanese Garden Tour (Oishi Bugakuryu Teien Meguri
Tour)* Each tour is 2,000 yen per person (Duration: 2 hours)
Kuroishi Neputa Artwork lantern courses can beundertaken at Irodori.

Prospects

Address and other information

・ Currently, the tours are only available in thecity centre, but plans are underway to add
more tours in the suburbs, such as in the
Nuruyu hot spring area.

Yokomachi Jumonji Machisodate Kai
Address: 33 Naka-machi, Kuroishi City, Aomori(Matsunoyu Community Center)Phone: +81172-55-6782
Operating hours: 9:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
(Closed during the New Year holiday period)
http://kuroishi-machisodate.com/

Access
Matsu no Yu Community Center
By car30 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from JR Shin-Aomori Station.
10 minutes from Kuroishi Interchange on Tohoku Expressway

By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
(Changing to the Konan Railway Konan Line at Hirosaki Station)
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. 5
minute walk from Kuroishi Station.
20 parking spaces are available.

https://goo.gl/maps/m2fSMWo8GJgaXrs8A

Scan for Google Maps

10 New Specialty “Kokeshi Lantern”- A fusion of traditional kokeshi style and Neputa technique

Name: Kokeshi Lanterns
Location: various places in Kuroishi City

Introduction:
Kokeshi doll shaped lanterns are placed in many
locations in Kuroishi City.
Human-size Kokeshi Lanterns gently illuminate thehistorical city streets with the feel of peace andcomfort.
Selling point
Kokeshi lanterns lined up along Kuroishi’s historic
Komise Street.

Some of the kokeshi lanterns
are flat shaped.

●Outline of contents and facilities
Kokeshi Lanterns are made in the style of Kuroishi's traditional Tsugaru style Kokeshi
dolls. Made using washi (a sturdy, traditional Japanese paper), Kokeshi Lanterns areconstructed with the techniques used to make Kuroishi Neputa. When lit, the adorable
Kokeshi Lanterns come to life, adding colour and a sense of comfort to the night streets.
In winter, the lanterns become even more vibrant in the snowy cityscape.
As the lanterns are handmade, each lantern has its own expression and charm. No
lantern is the same as the other.
★Keywords
lanterns, lights, Kokeshi dolls, Neputa, lamps, comforting

Kokeshi Lanterns were invented by former firefighter Yuichi Mori.
With a desire to revitalise the city, he combined the traditional
Tsugaru Kokeshi with the techniques of Neputa and created a novel
specialty, unique to Kuroishi City.
To make the lanterns, wood and wires are shaped and put together toform a kokeshi shaped skeleton. After which, washi (Japanese paper)
is affixed to the frame, and a face and colourful, traditional patterns
are drawn on it.
The sizes of the lanterns ranges from about 30 to 180 centimeters,with the larger ones being rather impactful.

Photographic record (Can be used for commercial purposes)

Wooden frameworks soon to become Kokeshi
Lanterns.

Stages of the lantern being made.
Left: lantern framework. Middle: Paper applied.
Right: Painted

The lantern’s body is turned on a handmade
wheel as lines are drawn on it.

The intricate artwork is all done by hand.
The art is carefully drawn with many different brushes.

The colors and patterns come to life beautifully
when lit.

The lanterns can be seen at various spots in
Kuroishi City.

Additional Information

Characteristics

Connections withthe community
・Kokeshi Lanterns are a popular new specialtyof Kuroishi City. They have received good
feedback from inns and hot springs.
・Kokeshi Lanterns look beautiful on the historicstreets of the hot spring area.

・ Kokeshi Lanterns are a fusion of Kokeshi and
Neputa styles, and unique to Kuroishi.
・The lanterns have colours, patterns, and an
overall ambiance that evoke a feel of "Japan".
・Large, human sized lanterns.

Prospects

・Yuichi has been making the lanterns
individually, but local Neputa artists willcontinue to make them in the future.
・As they’re a new specialty of Kuroishi, they’recurrently displayed at various locations.

To purchaseand experience

・The lanterns can be appreciated at various hot
spring, guest house and tourist spots.

Address andOther information
Manufacturer
Address: 172-1 Kiyokawa Aseishi, Kuroishi,
Aomori 036-0343 Japan
Tel: +8190-2957-6533
Yuichi Mori

Access
Komise Street
By car30 minutes from Aomori Airport
40 minutes from Shin-Aomori Station.
10 minutes from Kuroishi Inter Change on Tohoku Expressway

By train and bus
Take the train from Shin-Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station.
(Changing to the Konan Railway Konan Line at Hirosaki Station)
Take the Konan Railway Konan Line to Kuroishi Station. 5
minute walk from Kuroishi Station.

https://goo.gl/maps/e664GKqjkJWV9JN36

Scan for Google Maps