During this experience, you will visit the workshop of Iwamoto Kiyoshi Shoten and discover the history and craftsmanship behind this remarkable local tradition.

When the company was founded, its main products were "Hibachi"—traditional Japanese charcoal braziers used for heating homes. Paulownia wood was considered an ideal material for hibachi because it is exceptionally lightweight, easy to carry, and provides excellent insulation, allowing heat to remain inside while keeping the exterior relatively cool to the touch. It is also naturally resistant to fire thanks to its high ignition point and low oil content.

The beautifully charred surface of burnt paulownia, known as yakigiri, offers an elegant appearance and a soft warmth that can be felt by hand. Combining beauty with practicality, paulownia has long been treasured in Japanese daily life and has traditionally been used to make chests for storing kimono, tea utensils, artworks, and family heirlooms.

While hibachi were the company's main products in its early years, the workshop has since expanded its craft to include a wide range of wooden products for contemporary life, including tableware, interior accessories, and everyday household items. Today, the artisans continue to preserve traditional techniques while creating products suited to modern lifestyles.

After the workshop tour, you will create your own original coaster using paulownia wood. Experience its remarkable lightness, delicate texture, and the distinctive beauty of yakigiri while crafting a unique souvenir to take home.

*As the pieces created during the workshop require a professional coating finish by our craftsmen, the finished items will be delivered to your accommodation by the check-out time the following day.

More than simply making a craft item, this experience offers an opportunity to discover the wisdom, aesthetics, and craftsmanship that have shaped Japanese daily life for generations.