Meet the Artisans: The Woodcarving Village of Inami
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Port
Kanazawa, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$1050
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
This program takes you to Inami, one of Japan’s leading centers of woodcarving, where an extraordinary tradition has been passed down for more than 250 years. From Zuisenji
Temple, where the craft originated, to a master carver’s workshop, ranma transom carvings incorporated into everyday spaces, and contemporary works, the journey explores the artistry and craftsmanship of Inami woodcarving.
Inami woodcarving traces its origins to the mid-Edo period, when Zuisenji Temple was rebuilt after being destroyed by fire. Maekawa Sanshiro, an official sculptor dispatched from Hongwanji Temple in Kyoto, taught local carpenters advanced woodcarving techniques.
Today, Inami artisans employ more than 200 different chisels and carving tools to shape wood with remarkable precision. What began as architectural carving for temples and shrines gradually expanded into ranma transoms, decorative screens, sculptures, and other works, and the tradition continues to thrive throughout the town.
The journey begins with a walk along the stone-paved Yokamachi Street, which extends from Zuisenji Temple toward the workshop of Inami woodcarver Seiho Nomura. Carving workshops line the street, while hand-carved signs, nameplates, and other details reveal the skill of local artisans throughout the town. From somewhere nearby comes the rhythmic sound of wooden mallets striking chisels?a soundscape recognized by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan.” The fragrance of wood, the sound of chisels, and carvings woven into the streetscape make simply walking through Inami an encounter with its living woodcarving culture.
At the Seiho Nomura Woodcarving Workshop, Mr. Nomura personally introduces guests to his creative environment. Born into a family of woodcarvers, he studied sculpture at Kanazawa College of Art before returning to Inami to train under his father, who was recognized as a Contemporary Master Craftsman. His work ranges from traditional carvings for temples, shrines, and ranma transoms to expressive figurative sculptures. Inside the workshop, guests will witness a live demonstration as Mr. Nomura works with an array of chisels and carving tools, bringing form and vitality to wood through thenmovements of his hands. His finished works will also be presented with commentary by the artist himself. As a special memento of the visit, each guest will receive a handcrafted wooden sake cup created by Mr. Nomura.
The journey continues to Zuisenji Temple, the birthplace of Inami woodcarving.
Throughout the temple grounds, guests will discover elaborate carvings adorning structures including the Sanmon Gate, Main Hall, and Taishido Hall, while learning about their history and artistic significance. Having just witnessed the precision of the chisel in Mr. Nomura’s workshop, guests can now see how the same tradition of craftsmanship is transformed into monumental architectural sculpture. Here, the origins of a woodcarving tradition spanning more than 250 years come vividly to life.
Please note:
This is exclusive tour so the capacity is very limited. Transfer is approximately 60 minutes each way.
In case the master is not available, alternative staff will be substituted. Due to the limited workspace at the workshop, visitors will take turns observing the crafting process. Taking off the shoes will be required one or more locations. Wear comfortable shoes. Tour order may vary. The coach cannot accommodate scooters. Not advisable for guests with mobility limitations. Suggest to carry Japanese yen for additional purchases. Unfamiliar accents can be challenging; feel free to ask your guide to repeat or elaborate on information, and to speak more slowly so you can fully comprehend and converse.