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[Hofu City, Yamaguchi Prefecture] 5 experiences you can do in Hofu town - Sightseeing in a kimono, matcha tea experience, casting, etc.

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Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, which can be reached in about an hour from Hakata and Hiroshima, offers experiences that allow you to experience the industries and traditional techniques that have flourished in this town since ancient times, as well as experience menus that you can only find here and le...

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①Experience "casting", an industry that has flourished in Hofu since ancient times. "Casting experience"

Yamaguchi Foundry Memorial Museum is an exhibition facility that conveys the culture of Hofu, where the foundry industry has flourished since ancient times. Inside the retro hall, which is a renovated old folk house, you can learn about the history of casting while making small items such as small plates, cups, and accessories using tin. Handmade pieces are one-of-a-kind, original items that are unique to you. In addition, the casting experience is available not only for individuals but also for couples and groups. In addition, the staff will provide careful guidance, so even first-timers can participate with confidence. (You can take your creations home on the day). For business hours and details, please check the spot information below.

② “Salt making experience” at a facility that recreates the salt fields of those days

For about 260 years since the time of the feudal lord, the Mori family, the salt fields of Mitajiri have continued to produce high-quality salt using the ``Irihama-style'' process, which uses the ebb and flow of the tide to draw in seawater. In the Seto Inland Sea, it became a major salt producing area along with Ako, and played a major role in the history of Japan's salt industry. In the San'in, Hokuriku, and Tohoku regions where the salt produced in Mitajiri was transported by Kitamaebune ships, salt was even called ``Mitajiri.'' At the Mitajiri Shioda Memorial Industrial Park, which has been restored to commemorate this occasion, you can see and experience the process of salt making back then.

For business hours and details, please check the spot information below.

③Experience Japan Blue! "Indigo dyeing workshop"

``Noda Nishimura'' is an inn located in the Tomomi district in the eastern part of Hofu City, which is a renovated old private house built about 100 years ago, and Noda Nishimura's Grand House ``Tomi-fu-'' and ``Umi-kai-'', At ``Cafe & Gallery'' (the inn, workshop, cafe, and gallery are collectively referred to as ``AIMA''), you can try your hand at indigo dyeing, a traditional craft. The gallery exhibits works of indigo dyeing. At night, the inn is so quiet that only the sounds of insects can be heard.

Noda Nishimura Residence is an inn where you can try dyeing your own indigo. At our indigo dyeing workshop, we use an ancient Japanese indigo dye called natural lye fermentation. This indigo dye is gentle on the skin and does not fade or fade. The fabrics we prepare are all made from high-quality natural materials, and once dyed, they can be used for a lifetime. Let's bring out the rich texture of indigo that only natural dyes can bring out for yourself.

Click here for AIMA's homepage

④ “Tourism experience in a kimono” in the historical city of Hofu

``Hofu Kimono Experience Shiori'' is unique in that in addition to long-sleeved kimono and komon, you can also rent Oshima Tsumugi. Accessories such as tabi socks and sandals are also available, so you can easily experience it. Choose your favorite kimono, obi, and bag from a wide variety of kimono, obi, and bag, and after being dressed by a professional, you can walk through the historical city of Hofu, which is sure to make a great photo. A photographer photography plan is also available as an optional plan.

You can also experience ``Oriental kimono,'' where you wear a long-sleeved kimono like a dress, for an additional fee. You can transform your kimono into a beautiful long-sleeved kimono dress in about 20 minutes, without having to re-tailor it.

Click here for the Hofu Kimono Experience Shiori homepage

⑤ “Matcha experience” at the tea room Hoshoan

Michizane Sugawara, who is enshrined at Hofu Tenmangu Shrine, is said to have conducted research on tea and popularized the custom of drinking tea throughout the world. In order to convey to future generations the deep relationship between Michizane Sugawara and tea, the ``Tea House Hoshoan'' was built under the design of Hiroshi Oe, a leading Japanese architect. Please enjoy matcha and sweets while enjoying the beautiful autumn leaves in November.

Hoshoan during the autumn leaves season (around November)

Recommended sightseeing spots in Hofu

After enjoying the experience, it's time to explore Hofu's sightseeing spots. Hofu is home to historical buildings and spots where you can enjoy nature. For details, please check the article below.

How was it? This time, we're featuring 5 experiences you can have in Hofu City! There are some things you can only do in Hofu, so be sure to try them out to make memories of your trip.

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Hofu City is located in the central part of Yamaguchi Prefecture, on the Seto Inland Sea side, and is surrounded by the sea and mountains, allowing you to enjoy nature close to the town. In the summer, there is a gentle breeze blowing from the venue, and in the winter, we are blessed with a mild climate unique to the Seto Inland Sea. It is a city rich in history and culture that flourished around the capital of Suo Province in ancient times and developed as a transportation hub.

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