Ignite the Soul at this Coveted Tour in Toyama, the City of Glass
Sheer tourist delights and succulent harvests await in Toyama Prefecture, a nature-hugged escape blessed by the Japan Sea and the a backdrop of rolling mountains that tower as many as 3,000 meters high. To get here, set a course from Tokyo by a two-hour ride on the Hokuriku Shinkansen, or by a three-hour ride via express train and Hokuriku Shinkansen from Kyoto.
Toyama City, is an economic, cultural hub in the center of the prefecture, known across Japan for 300+ years as the “city of medicine”, for its prowess in manufacturing glass medicine bottles. The resulting, ever-growing knack for glass-making stems from this very history, forging the way for artisans and their craft still being nurtured today. Step into the city of Toyama for a glimpse into true craftsmanship, brimming with striking and one-of-a-kind designs.
Join this exclusive tour for a deep dive into the sought-ofter allures of Toyama City. With glass-making and more, here’s a breakdown of the types of craftsmanship you can expect along the way!
※ Listed prices and times refer to standard use and viewing fees.
Table of Contents
- World Debut Toast in a One-and-Only Wine Glass
- A Heritage of Breathtaking Craftsmanship awaits at Iwase District!
- Discover the Essence of Craftsmanship in Toyama City
- Indulge in a Memorable Dinner Experience: A Recommendation in Toyama City
- For an Extra Night Stay, Look No Further! Discover the Blend of Art and Natural Beauty at "River Retreat Garaku"
- Conclusion
World Debut Toast in a One-and-Only Wine Glass
The undeniable draw behind this tour is the exclusive chance to craft your very own wine glass out of thin air, alongside a local artisan. The next day this same glass will reappear as the star during dinner at a local Toyama City hotel. Raise a toast and blow yourself away with an actual, finished wine glass, ready in what feels like the blink of the eye.
Toyama Glass Studio, a creative hub inviting guests to make their own wine glass alongside an artisan.
On the outskirts of Toyama City lies Glass Art Hills Toyama, the very nucleus of the Glass City that houses acclaimed spots like Toyama Institute of Glass Art and Toyama Glass Studio. The studio also supports young artists, many of whom have made a name for themselves in the glass world both in and outside Japan.
The craft experience begins with a brief orientation. Here you draft your final wine glass design with samples and color swatches in hand.
Unlike other glass-making studios, this spot offers an art-forward experience that focuses on the true creation of design, alongside the artisan. Unlock your mind and explore the endless possibilities of design, even like adding color to the stem. Step into the studio for a chance to make your very own wineglass that’s fit to your tastes.
Next up you’ll head over to the studio workshop used by budding young artisans and take up the helm of wine glass making. Your preliminary sketches will inform your guide as you go. The task may take a little extra work to get used to, but rest assured as the cheery support of your attending craftsman will help you get the hang of it.
Total time to create each glass is about 45 minutes. Coupled with orientation and writing your name on the box you can expect about 90 minutes from beginning to end. From there your glass will take on a gradual cooling process overnight before the artisans apply the finishing touches in just a few hours.
Your finished wine glass is set for its final debut during the following day dinner, at DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama. Here you’ll enjoy all the perks of this special tour, raising the glass you made not too long ago in true Toyama city style.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 富山ガラス工房
- Postal Code
- 930-0151
- Address
- 152 Furusawa, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-436-2600 (Main number)
- Closed
- December 28th - January 4th
- Business Hours
- 9:00am - 5:00pm
- Access
- From JR Toyama Station, take the Toyama Regional Railway bus headed for Toyama University Hospital. Get off at "Family Park Mae" bus stop and walk for about 5 minutes.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)
Experience the myriad beauties of glass at Toyama Glass Art Museum.
Just as you’ve finished your own wine glass and whet your appetite for the craft, you’ll find yourself at the next stop, Toyama Glass Art Museum. This spot is located inside Toyama Glass Art Museum, a mixed-media destination crafted by world renowned artist Kengo Kuma that serves as the central hub for touting Toyama as “the City of Glass” around the world.
Inside the museum, you'll find a collection primarily featuring modern glass artworks owned by Toyama City. On the 6th floor, in the Glass Art Garden, you’ll find an installation piece crafted by the maestro of modern glass art, Dale Chihuly. The vibrant colors and dynamic nature of his works are so captivating that you'll find yourself completely immersed in their world.
Draw in near to the world of contemporary glass art at the library, lined with works made by the esteemed art friends of Toyama.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 富山市ガラス美術館
- Postal Code
- 930-0062
- Address
- 5-1 Nishicho, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-461-3100
- Closed
- 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, and during New Year holidays.
- Business Hours
- 9:30am - 6:00pm (until 8:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays). Last entry 30 minutes before closing.
- Admission
- Regular exhibitions are 200 yen for university students and above. Special exhibition prices vary.
- Access
- A short walk from the "Nishimachi" tram stop in the city.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
Cheers with an Original Glass at "DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama"!
Stays are book at DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama, set just about a 3-minute walk from Toyama Station. The hotel boasts 201 spacious rooms with a modern trappings for the utmost in comfort. The hotel also keeps a large communal bath with sauna and a 24-hour fitness gym.
For dinner on the second night, I indulged at the all-day dining located on the hotel's second floor. This was the moment to unveil the wine glasses crafted the previous day. While participants were nervously anticipating their glass reveal, the results exceeded everyone's expectations, leaving all immensely satisfied.
The Hilton's select wines were poured into our original glasses. Being able to toast with our handcrafted glasses while staying in Toyama, the “City of Glass” is an utmost pleasure. The chef's special dishes, abundantly utilizing local seasonal ingredients, perfectly complement the wine.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- ダブルツリーbyヒルトン富山
- Postal Code
- 930-0002
- Address
- 1-1-10 Shintomicho, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-403-9700
- Check-in
- 3:00pm
- Check-out
- 11:00am
- Accommodation Fee
- From 9,944 yen (tax and service charge included)
- Access
- About a 3-minute walk from JR Toyama Station.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
A Heritage of Breathtaking Craftsmanship awaits at Iwase District!
Located in the northern part of Toyama City, Iwase is a district brimming with old-world charm as it once thrived as a port town for a time since the early Edo period. It prospered immensely as a port of call for the Edo period merchant ship known as "Kitamaebune". Additionally, the region boasts "craftsmanship" rooted deeply within, notably represented by "Masuda Sake Brewery", the producer of the renowned sake "Masuizumi". The vicinity is dotted with workshops and galleries, serving as creative hubs for artisans and artists.
This tour integrates special visits to workshops not usually open to the public, allowing participants to intimately discover the allure of Iwase.
Prosperous merchant residence from the Kitamaebune trade era: Kitamaebune Kaisen Merchant Mori Residence.
The "Kitamaebune Kaisen Merchant Mori Residence", constructed around 1878, was the mansion of a merchant who prospered from the Kitamaebune trade. The house luxuriously incorporates materials sourced from all over Japan, conveying its past opulence. Highlights are found throughout, such as the wooden framework in the main building's open ceiling and paintings in the storage rooms. A distinct feature is the "Tooriniwa" passageway connecting the entrance to the former dock behind the residence.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 北前船廻船問屋 森家
- Postal Code
- 931-8358
- Address
- 108 Higashiiwasemachi, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-437-8960
- Closed
- New Year’s holiday period
- Business Hours
- 9:00am - 4:30pm
- Fee
- Adults: 100 yen, High school students and below: Free
- Access
- 10-minute walk from Higashi-Iwase Station on the Toyama Port Line.
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)
A Precious Glimpse into the Birthplace of Art at Wood-carving Iwasaki Workshop
Private studio of Tsutomu Iwasaki, a wood carver known around the world for his realistically crafted pieces that still keep with traditional carving techniques. Iwasaki’s works have garnered wide acclaimed across all sectors and are even featured at Michelin-starred restaurant, L'évo, in Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture. Enjoy this exclusive tour not usually available to the public where you can watch his craft up close.
Iwasaki's hometown, the Inami district of southern Toyama Prefecture (Nanto City), is renowned as a town where traditional Japanese carving techniques thrive. Born to a sculptor father, Iwasaki learned carving in Inami before striking out on his own to pursue more realistic expressions. He established his workshop in the town of Iwase, a place teeming with artists from across the board. The masterpieces emerging from this workshop transcend the framework of "traditional crafts", representing a new genre of art.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 木彫岩﨑工房
- Postal Code
- 931-8358
- Address
- 154-2 Higashiiwasemachi, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-437-7210
Enjoy the Unique Experience of Sake and Japanese Sweets Pairing at the Renowned Masuda Sake Brewery in Toyama
Located in Iwase, Masuda Sake Brewery is the birthplace of the famous sake "Masuizumi". At "Saseki", operated by the brewery, visitors can relish the paid tasting of their Japanese sake. Occasionally, there's the added thrill of stumbling upon exclusive sake brands not available to the general public, making it a paradise for sake enthusiasts.
In this tour, participants are ushered into the spacious area on the second floor of "Saseki". Here, they can specially experience the pairing of Japanese sweets from Hikiami Kagetsudo and sake from Masuda Sake Brewery. For this experience, five selected varieties of sake from Masuda Brewery are paired with five types of Japanese sweets. The taste sensation undergoes a dramatic transformation when one savors the sweet first, follows it with a sip of sake, and then revisits the sweet – an astonishing play on the palate.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 沙石
- Postal Code
- 931-8358
- Address
- 93 Iwaseomachi, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 080-2962-6683
- Closed
- Tuesdays
- Business Hours
- 10:00am – 5:00pm
- Access
- 12-minute walk from Higashi-Iwase Station on the Toyama Port Line.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
Perfect Italian Lunch Spot in Iwase: Piatto Suzuki Cinque
This authentic Italian restaurant offers dishes that showcase Toyama's rich ingredients. Located just off the main street of Iwase, Oomachi Street, it's a perfect lunch spot while out exploring the area.
The chef, trained at "Piatto Suzuki" in Azabu Juban, Tokyo, a restaurant that consistently held a Michelin star for over 10 years, before opening Piatto Suzuki Cinque in Iwase in 2017. The restaurant was awarded the "Bib Gourmand" title in the Michelin Guide Hokuriku 2021 Special Edition.
The restaurant, with its wood-themed interior, has large windows that overlook a Japanese garden, creating a relaxed ambiance for guests to enjoy their meal.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- ピアット スズキ チンクエ
- Postal Code
- 931-8358
- Address
- 93 Higashiiwasemachi, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-482-4014
- Closed
- Mondays, 2nd & 4th Sundays
- Business Hours
- 11:30am - 3:30pm (L.O.2:00pm), 5:30pm - 10:00pm (L.O.8:15pm)
- Budget
- Lunch from 1,980 yen, Dinner from 2,750 yen.
- Access
- 12-minute walk from Higashi-Iwase Station on the Toyama Port Line.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)
Experience Traditional Music at "Shamisen Rakuya"
Shamisen Rakuya is not only a retailer of one of Japan's traditional instruments, the Shamisen, but also offers classes on how to play it. Here, as a part of the tour, you can experience making a Shamisen replica out of paper.
The Owara Wind Bon Festival takes place from September 1st to 3rd each year in Yao, the southern part of Toyama City. The Shamisen is an indispensable instrument for this festival, underlining the deep connection between Toyama and the Shamisen.
Before the hands-on experience, visitors are treated to a Shamisen performance. From the rich emotional folk songs to dynamic fast-playing techniques, you will be instantly captivated by the delights of the Shamisen.
After enjoying the melodious sounds of the Shamisen serenade, the "paper Shamisen-making" workshop begins. The process, which involves tasks such as folding paper along creases and attaching the neck, is simple, making it an activity that everyone can enjoy. Surprisingly, this paper-made Shamisen resonates sound quite impressively.
Once the paper Shamisen is complete, it's time to play. The workshop provides original sheet music designed for intuitive play, ensuring that even those new to musical instruments can easily play. Of course, participants also get the opportunity to try out a real Shamisen, providing a full-rounded experience.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- しゃみせん楽家
- Postal Code
- 931-8358
- Address
- 303 Higashiiwasemachi, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-471-5467
- Closed
- Wednesdays
- Business Hours
-
10:00am - 6:00pm
(Weekends and holidays 10:00am - 3:00pm) - Access
- 3-minute walk from Higashi-Iwase Station on the Toyama Port Line.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)
Discover the Essence of Craftsmanship in Toyama City
Boasting industries that the world takes pride in, such as pharmaceutical production and lattice craftsmanship, Toyama City is a treasure trove of tradition and innovation. This tour takes you on a journey through various facilities that offer insights into these industries.
Traditional Drugstore Symbolizing "Medicine Town Toyama": "Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten"
Toyama City, known as the "Medicine Town," has been a hub for the pharmaceutical industry for over 300 years. Legend has it that in 1690, when a feudal lord suffered from severe abdominal pain within Edo Castle, the second lord of Toyama domain, Maeda Masatoshi, offered him a medicine called "Hangan-tan". The pain reportedly subsided immediately, which propelled the fame of Toyama's medicine throughout the nation.
Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten was instrumental in reviving the Hangan-tan, which had swept the nation during the Edo period, shortly after World War II. They demonstrate the traditional pill-making process, allowing those interested to experience it firsthand. While molding the medicine into uniform sizes might seem simple, it’s actually quite the challenge!
The store offers a range of Japanese and Chinese herbal medicines. Depending on the symptoms or concerns, they provide appropriate prescriptions, offering a sense of reliability.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 池田屋安兵衛商店
- Postal Code
- 930-0046
- Address
- 1-3-5 Tsutsumichodori, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-425-1871
- Closed
- New Year’s holiday period
- Business Hours
- 9:00am - 6:00pm
- Access
- Located approximately 2 minutes on foot from the "Nishimachi" tram stop.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
Experience the Intricate Beauty, Fine-tuned at Kumiko Zaiku Tanihata
Kumiko Zaiku is a traditional Japanese woodworking technique where wood pieces are intricately assembled into geometric patterns without the use of nails. "Kumiko Zaiku Tanihata" boasts a team of skilled artisans who have achieved numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Prime Minister's Award".
As you step into the facility, you are immediately greeted by displays of their exquisite handiwork that showcases the intricate beauty of Kumiko. Originally used for decorating traditional Japanese rooms, it's unsurprising to learn that their work has recently found its way into overseas brand shops and luxury hotels, given the unparalleled artistry.
After touring the facility, visitors are offered an opportunity to try their hand at Kumiko. Assembling the wooden pieces can be likened to solving a puzzle; while it may be challenging to get the hang of it initially, the satisfaction upon completing a design is unmatched.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 組子細工タニハタ
- Postal Code
- 930-0816
- Address
- 1-7-3 Kamiakaemachi, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-441-2820 (Main number)
- Closed
- Weekends and holidays
- Business Hours
- 10:30am - 12:00pm, 1:30pm - 3:00pm (Factory tours are available only for groups of 10 or more with prior reservation)
- Fee
- 1000 yen
- Access
- About a 15-minute walk from Shimookui Station on the Toyama Port Line.
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
Delve into the True Beauty of the Japanese Sword at the "Shusui Museum of Art"
The art museum showcases artworks collected by the pharmaceutical company, Reed Chemical Co. Amongst the vast collection, the array of Japanese swords is particularly impressive and a sight to behold. During the Muromachi period (1336-1568), Toyama Prefecture was a major production area for swords, predominantly crafted by the swordsmith group called the "Uda-ha". Occasionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions displaying collections from Toyama swordsmiths, which is not to be missed.
Up close, the beauty of the Japanese sword is undeniable, particularly the wave-like pattern known as "hamon". More than just a weapon, the Japanese sword is a piece of art and craftsmanship that has been cherished and passed down through generations.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 秋水美術館
- Postal Code
- 930-0066
- Address
- 1-3-6 Sengokumachi, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-425-5700
- Closed
- Mondays & Tuesdays (If a holiday falls on these days, it'll be closed the next day) and New Year holidays.
- Business Hours
- 10:00am - 5:00pm (Admission allowed until 4:30pm)
- Fee
- Adults: 800 yen, University students and below: Free
- Access
- About a 5-minute walk from the city tram stop "Otemall".
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
Indulge in a Memorable Dinner Experience: A Recommendation in Toyama City
The recommended stay, DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama, sits just in front of JR Toyama Station. It’s location provides easy access to bars, traditional “kappo” cuisine restaurants, izakaya and more to explore. Taking a stroll through the bustling city center and savoring the culinary delights of Toyama is one experience you’re not likely to forget.
Kappo Ogawa: Savor the Seasonal Bounties of Hokuriku
Kappo Ogawa offers a culinary experience that revolves around fresh seafood from Toyama and local mountain delicacies. Each dish not only tantalizes the taste buds with its profound flavors but also presents a visual feast, reflecting the chef's meticulous skills and dedication. During the winter season, you can look forward to specialties like Buri Shabu (Yellowtail Hot Pot) and crab dishes.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 割烹 小川
- Postal Code
- 930-0002
- Address
- 2-4-7 Shintomicho, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-439-1988
- Closed
- Sundays and holidays
- Business Hours
- 11:30am - 2:00pm (L.O.1:30pm), 5:00pm - 10:00pm (L.O.9:30pm)
- Budget
- Lunch from 1,650 yen, Dinner from 7,150 yen.
- Access
- About a 10-minute walk from JR Toyama Station.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)
For an Extra Night Stay, Look No Further! Discover the Blend of Art and Natural Beauty at "River Retreat Garaku"
If you're considering extending your stay in Toyama, "River Retreat Garaku" awaits, nestled along the banks of the Jinzu River. The immersive art pieces scattered throughout the hotel, combined with the natural scenery, create a serene and soul-soothing ambiance.
Set on the edge of the Jinzu Gorge, this boutique, luxury hotel encapsulates elegance and comfort. Contemporary art pieces adorn the public spaces and guest rooms, enriching the overall experience. Many rooms offer a river view, allowing guests to unwind while gazing at the emerald-green waters of the stunning Jinzu River.
Another noteworthy feature is the dual dining options, blending both Japanese and Western cuisine. Both eateries spotlight the rich flavors of local Toyama ingredients, elevating each dish to perfection.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- リバーリトリート雅樂倶
- Postal Code
- 939-2224
- Address
- 56-2 Kasuga, Toyama City, Toyama
- Telephone
- 076-467-5550
- Check-in
- 3:00pm
- Check-out
- 11:00am
- Accommodation Fee
- Starting from 38,500yen for one night with two meals.
- Access
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Sasazu Station.
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
Conclusion
Tour bookings available through Team Travel Kuramoto and Bespoke Japan Travel. Set a course for two nights and three days to see all the allures that await in this deep dive excursion through Toyama City, like never seen before.
TEAM TRAVEL KURAMOTO CO., LTD.
- Postal Code
- 541-0056
- Address
- Shin Chuo Building 3F, 4-2-9 Kyutaromachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka
- Telephone
- 06-6245-0878
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
Bespoke Japan Travel Co., LTD.
- Postal Code
- 541-0056
- Address
- Shin Chuo Building 3F, 4-2-9 Kyutaromachi, Chuo-ku, Osaka City, Osaka
- Telephone
- 06-6245-0878
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)