Welcome to Okawa City, Fukuoka—the birthplace of woodworking in Japan. At the nationally designated Important Cultural Property Former Yoshihara Family Residence (built over 200 years ago), you will step into history and experience two of Japan’s cherished traditions: a hands-on Kumiko woodcraft workshop and an authentic Matcha tea ceremony.
This cultural experience offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Japanese craftsmanship and hospitality under the same historic roof.
【Historic Setting】 Experience Japanese traditions inside the Former Yoshihara Residence, a 200-year-old mansion once used by feudal lords of Yanagawa Domain. Admire the exquisite wooden craftsmanship and architectural beauty.
【Kumiko Woodcraft Workshop】 Learn about the history of Okawa woodcraft and create your own Kumiko craft art piece with guidance. Take home your handmade work as a lasting memory.
【Matcha Tea Ceremony】 Whisk and enjoy your own bowl of matcha green tea paired with a traditional sweet. Even if you cannot sit on tatami, chairs and tables are available.
【Personal Cultural Connection】 Through “Kumiko” and “Matcha,” experience the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship and ichigo ichie (“one-time, one-meeting”) hospitality.
Price: 4,200yen
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
Time Slots ①10:00~ ②13:00~ ③15:00~ Please let us know your preferred start time.
Included in the Price:A short tour of the Former Yoshihara Residence guided by staff、Kumiko and Matcha Experience Fee
Not Included: Parking Fee
Address:136-17 Obo, Okawa-shi, Fukuoka Prefecture, 831-0000,
Access: ・By Bus...From Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station, take the Nishitetsu bus bound for Saga Station Bus Center and get off at "Nakabaru Takagi Hospital-mae" bus stop. The bus ride takes about 19–20 minutes, then it is about a 10–15 minute walk to the Old Yoshihara Family Residence.
・By tax...There is a taxi stand at Nishitetsu Yanagawa Station. The distance to the Old Yoshihara Family Residence is about 9 km, and the fare is approximately 2,600 yen one way.
・By Car Hakata or Tenjin... About 60min
・Minimum 1 participant, max 10 (consult for groups over 10)
・Japanese only, with visual aids and translation tools available
・Please arrive at least 10 minutes before your reserved time.
・Former Yoshihara Residence is an old building, temperature may vary – dress accordingly
・Shoes must be removed before entering the residence
・Smoking is not permitted inside the building