Experience Nikko Carving, a traditional craft that Nikko is proud of! mekke Nikko Local Center
- Tochigi
- Experience Gifu
What is Nikko Carving?
It is said that the origin of Nikko carving dates back to 1634, when the third shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, gathered together carving carpenters and other outstanding masters from all over Japan to make the Toshogu shrine a majestic edifice, and these craftsmen began building it during their work.
The renovation was so extensive that the shrine pavilions were completely rebuilt, and the number of carving carpenters assembled was as many as 400,000.
It is said that even after Toshogu was completed, the carving carpenters who remained in Nikko began to sell Nikko carvings, such as trays, as souvenirs to visitors to Nikko.
An indispensable part of Nikko carving is the hikkaki, a carving knife unique to Nikko carving, also known as the Nikko triangular sword.
The name "hikkaki" comes from the fact that the tool used to scratch off lacquer from the depths of carvings during the repainting of lacquer on shrines and temples such as Toshogu Shrine was improved and used for carving.
The tip of the blade is bent at a 60-degree angle and pulled toward you to carve, making it an important carving knife for Nikko carving, which is characterized by deeply carved curves.
How to experience Nikko carving?
You can experience Nikko carving at the mekke Nikko Local Center here!
Nikko is a city with rich history and culture.
mekke is located between JR Nikko Station and Nikko Toshogu Shrine, and is a center for "discovering" the charms of Nikko under the theme of "feel, connect, and explore.
In addition to the Nikko carving experience, the center offers various services such as rental of electrically power assisted bicycles, a coworking space for a short break, and souvenirs for sale.
The museum also has a tourist information center (Nikko Branch of the Nikko Tourist Association), and on the second floor there is an exhibition on erosion control, where original "SABO cards" from the Kanto Regional Development Bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Nikko Erosion Control Office are distributed.
At the workshop in mekke, visitors can casually try their hand at Nikko carving, a traditional craft of which Nikko is proud.
Using a "Hicchiku-knife," a carving knife unique to Nikko carving, visitors can easily participate in the workshop, starting from one person. Unlike ordinary carving knives, the "Hicchiku-knife" can be used to create smooth curves by using both hands and pulling it forward. It is a little difficult to handle, but the sense of accomplishment you get when you successfully carve is exceptional.
The process of the experience is as follows, and the time required is about 60 to 90 minutes. All tools are provided by the facility, so you do not need to bring anything.
1) Selection: You choose the shape and color of the base wood, as well as the design of the picture to be carved. Original designs are also available.
(2) Drawing: Using a pencil or carbon paper, draw a design on the wood.
3) Carve: While being taught by the instructor, carve little by little along the drawn design with a scratch knife.
The result is a one-of-a-kind Nikko carving. Even the parts that were not carved well will have a unique flavor. You can take home the completed work as it is, making it an ideal souvenir of your trip.
Because an engraving knife is used, this class is suitable for 4th grade elementary school students and older.
*Since the experience may not be available due to the instructor's schedule or other reasons, we recommend that you contact us and make a reservation in advance.
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Location: 591 Miyuki-cho, Nikko-shi, Tochigi 321-1404
Access 16-minute walk from Nikko Station on the JR Nikko Line / 12-minute walk from Tobu Nikko Station
*The contents and services in this article are subject to change.
*All images are for reference only.