Explore a riverside town rich in Edo-period charm and traditional craftsmanship

Sawara is a waterfront town that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. Every corner of this historic townscape offers a picturesque view. In this charming town, experience Japanese daily life while shopping at local shops and enjoying tea in historic buildings transformed into cafés. A highlight of the tour is the Sawara Hariko painting experience. Create your own Sawara Hariko, a paper mache-like craft, and take home a unique piece of Japanese culture. This tour offers a memorable experience where you will immerse yourself in Japanese history, lifestyle, and craftsmanship alongside tranquil waterside scenery.

・ Minimum Time Required5hours

・ Minimum BudgetJPY 4,500

Tour Highlights

Exploring the historic townscape of Sawara

The town of Sawara is located on the bank of the Tone River, which was an important waterway for transporting goods from the provinces to Edo (present-day Tokyo) during the Edo period. Sawara flourished as a major commercial hub, and many canals were constructed to facilitate the movement of goods and people. Today, the town is popular among Japanese tourists for its historic atmosphere, characterized by picturesque canals, traditional merchant houses, and charming souvenir shops. It is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll.

Sawara Hariko painting experience

Hariko refers to objects made by applying layers of washi paper onto a base made of wood or clay. The Hariko crafts produced in the Sawara area of Katori City are mainly dolls and masks, many of which are modeled after animals considered to bring good fortune. In this workshop, you can choose your own colors and facial expressions to create a unique piece of Hariko. Your finished work makes a memorable souvenir, charming home decoration, or a lucky charm that can be enjoyed for years to come. This experience offers a fun introduction to the local craft tradition of Sawara, while allowing you to express your creativity and make lasting travel memories. It is recommended for people of all ages and can be enjoyed even on rainy days. Why not try making your own one-of-a-kind Hariko?

Optional Activities

Suigo Sawara Float Museum

At the Suigo Sawara Float Museum, you can experience the world of the Sawara Grand Festival, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage with a history of about 300 years. Two festival floats, each standing approximately 9 meters tall, are on permanent display, allowing visitors to appreciate their impressive scale and intricate craftsmanship up close. The floats make a striking subject for photographs. This museum offers the unique opportunity to experience the spirit and artistry of the Sawara Grand Festival throughout the year.

Boat tour

A boat tour on the Ono River is one of the best ways to experience Sawara’s historic townscape. As you glide past traditional buildings framed by willow trees, it feels as though you have stepped back in time. Having prospered during the Edo period as a center of river transportation, Sawara is especially captivating when viewed from the water. This relaxing cruise offers a unique perspective on the town’s rich history and atmosphere that cannot be fully appreciated on foot.

Kimono rental

Kimono rentals offer an easy way to experience traditional Japanese clothing and are the perfect complement to Sawara’s historic streetscape. Dressing assistance is included, making the experience accessible even for first-time visitors. Strolling through the town in a kimono enhances the feeling of stepping back in time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Edo period. This popular activity not only makes for beautiful photos but also adds a special touch to your travel memories.