Morioka Handi-Works Square

See thousands of local crafts and try making some yourself

Morioka Handi-Works Square in Iwate Prefecture will stimulate all your senses. Try your hand at making local crafts, watch master artisans ply their trade, and look over the various fine goods being exhibited. Over 4,000 kinds of local crafts, including culinary crafts, are represented at the site.

Don’t Miss
Trying your hand at making local crafts
Viewing the traditional ironware and other crafts

How to Get There

You can get to Morioka Handi-Works Square by bus from Morioka Station. From Morioka Station, take a bus to the Morioka Tezukuri-mura-mae Bus Stop. You will be dropped off right in front of the venue. The journey takes about 30 minutes by bus.

Making local products
The workshop zone at Morioka Handi-Works Square has several options that you can try, effectively making your own version of local products. The workshops cost money, and the prices and times vary depending on what you are making. Some of the more popular seminars are for Chagu Chagu horse dolls and Morioka reimen (cold noodles).

Nanbu senbei rice crackers are a snap
One of the cheapest (200 yen) and easiest items to make are Nanbu senbei rice crackers. You put the dough into a cast-iron rice cracker cast, add some peanuts or other toppings, and then cook the crackers over hot coals. Once your sembei are ready, take them out of the mold and eat them. It only takes about three minutes.

Stop on by the farm, or the local onsen
Two to three hours should be enough time to see and experience Morioka Handi-Works Square. Once you are done, it is a short bus ride to Koiwai Farm or to Tsunagi Hot Springs.

Morioka Handi-Works Square is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in local crafts and traditional Japanese culture. Located in Iwate Prefecture, this unique attraction offers visitors the opportunity to not only admire and purchase local crafts but also try their hand at making them. With over 4,000 kinds of local crafts on display, including culinary crafts, Morioka Handi-Works Square is a treasure trove of traditional Japanese artistry.

Upon arriving at Morioka Handi-Works Square, visitors will be greeted by a bustling marketplace filled with master artisans showcasing their skills. From intricate pottery to delicate textile work, there is something for everyone to marvel at. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively, with the sounds of craftsmen at work and the aromas of freshly made goods filling the air.

One of the highlights of Morioka Handi-Works Square is the workshop zone, where visitors can participate in hands-on craft-making experiences. Whether it’s creating Chagu Chagu horse dolls or trying their hand at making Morioka reimen (cold noodles), there are plenty of options to choose from. These workshops are led by experienced artisans who are passionate about sharing their craft with others.

For those looking for a quick and easy craft-making experience, Nanbu senbei rice crackers are a perfect choice. These traditional rice crackers are made by pouring the dough into a cast-iron rice cracker cast, adding toppings like peanuts, and then cooking them over hot coals. Within minutes, visitors can enjoy freshly made rice crackers that are both delicious and satisfying.

Aside from the craft-making experiences, Morioka Handi-Works Square also offers visitors the opportunity to view traditional ironware and other crafts. These exhibits provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region, showcasing the skills and craftsmanship of local artisans. From intricately designed tea sets to finely crafted furniture, these exhibits are a testament to the talent and dedication of the artisans.

To fully appreciate the beauty of Morioka Handi-Works Square, visitors are encouraged to allocate two to three hours for their visit. This will allow ample time to explore the various exhibits, participate in craft-making workshops, and indulge in some local delicacies. After immersing themselves in the world of local crafts, visitors can take a short bus ride to Koiwai Farm or Tsunagi Hot Springs to further explore the wonders of Iwate Prefecture.

Getting to Morioka Handi-Works Square is convenient and hassle-free. From Morioka Station, visitors can take a bus to the Morioka Tezukuri-mura-mae Bus Stop, which is located right in front of the venue. The bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes, providing visitors with a scenic ride through the picturesque landscapes of Iwate Prefecture.

In conclusion, Morioka Handi-Works Square is a hidden gem in Iwate Prefecture, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience in the world of local crafts. From trying their hand at craft-making to admiring the skills of master artisans, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or simply curious about Japanese culture, a visit to Morioka Handi-Works Square is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the beauty and artistry of traditional Japanese crafts.

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