Ignite the Soul at this Coveted Tour in Toyama, the City of Glass

Ignite the Soul at this Coveted Tour in Toyama, the City of Glass

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Written by GOOD LUCK TRIP

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

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.

Located at Glass Art Hills Toyama, a meccha for budding glass artisans.
Located at Glass Art Hills Toyama, a meccha for budding glass artisans.
At Toyama Glass Studio No.2, residents can drop in to try the thrills of glass making, all with an extra set of helping hands from an in-house artist. This is where the wine glass-making tour is set to be held.
At Toyama Glass Studio No.2, residents can drop in to try the thrills of glass making, all with an extra set of helping hands from an in-house artist. This is where the wine glass-making tour is set to be held.

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.

Kick off by leafing through color swatches and drawing how you want your wine glass to look. The entire process works best when you have a clear image in your head upfront.
Kick off by leafing through color swatches and drawing how you want your wine glass to look. The entire process works best when you have a clear image in your head upfront.

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.

A blowpipe is used to inflate the molten glass. Join the cohort of young glass artisans for a time of creation at the studio.
A blowpipe is used to inflate the molten glass. Join the cohort of young glass artisans for a time of creation at the studio.

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.

Take up the best tips and tricks from the artisans as your glass approaches your final vision.
Take up the best tips and tricks from the artisans as your glass approaches your final vision.

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.

Waiting in bated breath for your one-in-a-million, all-original one glass, made in tandem with a glass artisan.
Waiting in bated breath for your one-in-a-million, all-original one glass, made in tandem with a glass artisan.
Included with each booking is a bespoke wooden box to hold your glass, signed by hand and wrapped in a traditional cloth along with a photo snapped at the studio that is sent next day to your dinner table. The box can be signed with a brush as well for added flair.
Included with each booking is a bespoke wooden box to hold your glass, signed by hand and wrapped in a traditional cloth along with a photo snapped at the studio that is sent next day to your dinner table. The box can be signed with a brush as well for added flair.
Take a moment to kick back at Crie, the café directly connected to the studio.
Take a moment to kick back at Crie, the café directly connected to the studio.
Local works by the studio’s own are available to purchase at the shop next door.
Local works by the studio’s own are available to purchase at the shop next door.

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.

TOYAMA Kirari is home not only to the museum, but also a library a bank. Complete with a stunning atrium, this is among the most sought-after photo spots in Toyama City.
TOYAMA Kirari is home not only to the museum, but also a library a bank. Complete with a stunning atrium, this is among the most sought-after photo spots in Toyama City.
Dale Chihuly's "Toyama Float Boat" 2015, H60 x W917.5 x D657.5cm, part of the Toyama Glass Art Museum's collection.
©Chihuly Studio All rights reserved. Dale Chihuly's "Toyama Float Boat" 2015, H60 x W917.5 x D657.5cm, part of the Toyama Glass Art Museum's collection.

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.

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, there are a number of themed exhibits on rotation. Swing by this spot just after completing your glass-making experience to enjoy the works while your artist’s eye is still fine tuned. 
Photo shows “Collection Exhibition: Nature Through Glass" which runs from June 10th to December 3rd, 2023.
In addition to the permanent exhibitions, there are a number of themed exhibits on rotation. Swing by this spot just after completing your glass-making experience to enjoy the works while your artist’s eye is still fine tuned.
Photo shows “Collection Exhibition: Nature Through Glass" which runs from June 10th to December 3rd, 2023.
The glittering exterior, reminiscent of glass art, was exquisitely designed by the world-famous architect Kengo Kuma.
The glittering exterior, reminiscent of glass art, was exquisitely designed by the world-famous architect Kengo Kuma.

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.

Opened in January 2023, the DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama marks Hilton's first venture in the Hokuriku region (comprising Toyama, Ishikawa and Fukui Prefectures).
Opened in January 2023, the DoubleTree by Hilton Toyama marks Hilton's first venture in the Hokuriku region (comprising Toyama, Ishikawa and Fukui Prefectures).
The 201 rooms, inspired by the Tateyama Mountain Range, are designed with bright wood tones, and undeniable warm ambiance.
The 201 rooms, inspired by the Tateyama Mountain Range, are designed with bright wood tones, and undeniable warm ambiance.
Nestled in a sturdy wooden box was the wine glass I crafted yesterday. Collaborating with the artist resulted in a creation even more beautiful than I imagined.
Nestled in a sturdy wooden box was the wine glass I crafted yesterday. Collaborating with the artist resulted in a creation even more beautiful than I imagined.
Each wine glass celebrates the unique character of its creator.
Each wine glass celebrates the unique character of its creator.

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.

Guests can savor dinner in private dining spaces. The wine tasted exceptional when sipped from our handcrafted glasses. After use, the hotel's kitchen staff wash the glasses and repack them in their boxes.
Guests can savor dinner in private dining spaces. The wine tasted exceptional when sipped from our handcrafted glasses. After use, the hotel's kitchen staff wash the glasses and repack them in their boxes.
Sample course features wood-fired pork with honey garlic sauce, among other dishes that paired delightfully with wine.
Sample course features wood-fired pork with honey garlic sauce, among other dishes that paired delightfully with wine.

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.

A glimpse of the main drag, Omachi Street in Iwase.
A glimpse of the main drag, Omachi Street in Iwase.
"Kitamaebune" refers to merchant ships that traveled back and forth between Osaka and Hokkaido via the Seto Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan. Primarily, rice was loaded from Iwase, and kelp and herring for fertilization were brought in from Hokkaido.
"Kitamaebune" refers to merchant ships that traveled back and forth between Osaka and Hokkaido via the Seto Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan. Primarily, rice was loaded from Iwase, and kelp and herring for fertilization were brought in from Hokkaido.

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.

The Mori Residence, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1994.
The Mori Residence, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1994.
Visitors can experience the typical residence ambiance of Iwase merchants.
Visitors can experience the typical residence ambiance of Iwase merchants.
The main house, complete with remarkable wooden framework. The traditional irori Japanese hearth was once a setting for business dealings.
The main house, complete with remarkable wooden framework. The traditional irori Japanese hearth was once a setting for business dealings.

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.

The earnest gaze of Mr. Tsutomu Iwasaki as he carves away at the wood.
The earnest gaze of Mr. Tsutomu Iwasaki as he carves away at the wood.

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.

The workshop also functions as a gallery, displaying a myriad of pieces.
The workshop also functions as a gallery, displaying a myriad of pieces.
Among Iwasaki's notable themes in his artworks is the persimmon, which he describes as evoking "a sense of nostalgia". The detailed realism of his work makes it hard to believe that these sculptures are carved from wood.
Among Iwasaki's notable themes in his artworks is the persimmon, which he describes as evoking "a sense of nostalgia". The detailed realism of his work makes it hard to believe that these sculptures are carved from wood.
Observing the site where life is breathed into wood offers a truly invaluable experience.
Observing the site where life is breathed into wood offers a truly invaluable experience.

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.

Indulge in paid sake tasting in a room exuding old-world charm with high ceilings.
Indulge in paid sake tasting in a room exuding old-world charm with high ceilings.
Fourth-generation proprietor of the historic confectionery "Hikiami Kagetsudo" curates Japanese sweets that perfectly complement each sake.
Fourth-generation proprietor of the historic confectionery "Hikiami Kagetsudo" curates Japanese sweets that perfectly complement each sake.

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.

A collaboration between two stalwarts of Toyama – a historic sake brewery and a traditional confectionery. Listening to each of their philosophies and passions behind sake-brewing and confectionery-making is sure to intrigue the mind.
A collaboration between two stalwarts of Toyama – a historic sake brewery and a traditional confectionery. Listening to each of their philosophies and passions behind sake-brewing and confectionery-making is sure to intrigue the mind.
The delightful compatibility of Japanese sake and sweets takes participants by surprise, sparking lively conversations.
The delightful compatibility of Japanese sake and sweets takes participants by surprise, sparking lively conversations.
Thanks to the initiative of the owner of Hikiami Kagetsudo, there's also an opportunity to experience the art of making Japanese sweets. This provides a fresh perspective on the intricate allure of traditional confections.
Thanks to the initiative of the owner of Hikiami Kagetsudo, there's also an opportunity to experience the art of making Japanese sweets. This provides a fresh perspective on the intricate allure of traditional confections.

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.

Grilled red seabream and roasted pork (imagery of course option).
Grilled red seabream and roasted pork (imagery of course option).

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.

A grand stone gate at the restaurant entrance, leading to a sprawling, Japanese garden.
A grand stone gate at the restaurant entrance, leading to a sprawling, Japanese garden.

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.

Enjoy a Shamisen Mini-Live Performance Before Diving In
Enjoy a Shamisen Mini-Live Performance Before Diving In

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.

Finish by Wrapping the Strings and Voila, a Paper Shamisen is Born
Finish by Wrapping the Strings and Voila, a Paper Shamisen is Born

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.

The three strings are color-coded, and the frets are numbered, making it easy for beginners to play.
The three strings are color-coded, and the frets are numbered, making it easy for beginners to play.

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.

Tracing its roots back to 1936 when it was established as a Japanese and Chinese herbal medicine wholesaler, Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten stands as a testament to the city's history.
Tracing its roots back to 1936 when it was established as a Japanese and Chinese herbal medicine wholesaler, Ikedaya Yasubei Shoten stands as a testament to the city's history.
Witness the Traditional Making of "Hangan-tan"
Witness the Traditional Making of "Hangan-tan"

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.

Their bestseller is the "Etchu Hangan-tan," known to be effective against gastrointestinal disorders caused by stress, overeating, overdrinking, and indigestion.
Their bestseller is the "Etchu Hangan-tan," known to be effective against gastrointestinal disorders caused by stress, overeating, overdrinking, and indigestion.
With its retro packaging, the medicine is also a popular souvenir.
With its retro packaging, the medicine is also a popular souvenir.

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".

Treat your eyes to a visual feat as the artisan’s get to work. Witness the artisans at work and immerse yourself in the art.
Treat your eyes to a visual feat as the artisan’s get to work. Witness the artisans at work and immerse yourself in the art.

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.

The swift precision of the craftsmen, seamlessly joining pieces of wood, is mesmerizing to watch.
The swift precision of the craftsmen, seamlessly joining pieces of wood, is mesmerizing to watch.
Various Kumiko patterns are on display, demonstrating the vast possibilities of the art form.
Various Kumiko patterns are on display, demonstrating the vast possibilities of the art form.
The headquarters also functions as a showroom, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty of Kumiko first-hand.
The headquarters also functions as a showroom, offering visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty of Kumiko first-hand.
Engaging in the Kumiko coaster-making workshop is captivating and is bound to leave participants enthralled.
Engaging in the Kumiko coaster-making workshop is captivating and is bound to leave participants enthralled.

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.

Delve into the True Beauty of the Japanese Sword at the "Shusui Museum of Art"
Delve into the True Beauty of the Japanese Sword at the "Shusui Museum of Art"

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.

Holding an impressive collection of around 200 Japanese swords, including those designated as Important Cultural Properties.
Holding an impressive collection of around 200 Japanese swords, including those designated as Important Cultural Properties.
The very essence of the beauty of the Japanese sword lies in its "hamon", the tempered pattern on the blade. The museum enhances this charm with calculated lighting, bringing out the allure of these swords.
The very essence of the beauty of the Japanese sword lies in its "hamon", the tempered pattern on the blade. The museum enhances this charm with calculated lighting, bringing out the allure of these swords.
The term "Shusui" signifies a Japanese sword that is flawlessly sharpened and without a cloud.
The term "Shusui" signifies a Japanese sword that is flawlessly sharpened and without a cloud.

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.

Indulge in the luxury of fresh seafood harvested from Toyama Bay.
Indulge in the luxury of fresh seafood harvested from Toyama Bay.
For our visit, they served seasonal Ayu fish, freshly caught from the Jinzu River flowing through Toyama city.
For our visit, they served seasonal Ayu fish, freshly caught from the Jinzu River flowing through Toyama city.
There's also a fusion twist to some dishes, like the Roast Beef, giving a hint of Western essence.
There's also a fusion twist to some dishes, like the Roast Beef, giving a hint of Western essence.
Taste the four seasons at this authentic “kappo” style restaurant.
Taste the four seasons at this authentic “kappo” style restaurant.

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.

The newly-renovated main building's premier suite, "Suimon", unveiled in March 2023, offers an unparalleled experience.
The newly-renovated main building's premier suite, "Suimon", unveiled in March 2023, offers an unparalleled experience.

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.

Main lobby with picturesque views over the Jinzu River.
Main lobby with picturesque views over the Jinzu River.
Sample dinner plating from Trésonnier, featuring French-based innovative cuisine.
Sample dinner plating from Trésonnier, featuring French-based innovative cuisine.
Just a glimpse of what to expect from dinner at Wasaizensho Rakumi. Delight in the utmost of artful hospitality at this retreat so intricately designed, even down to the dishware.
Just a glimpse of what to expect from dinner at Wasaizensho Rakumi. Delight in the utmost of artful hospitality at this retreat so intricately designed, even down to the dishware.

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)