Joboji, in Ninohe in northern Iwate, produces the majority of Japan’s precious domestic urushi (natural lacquer) — the sap tapped from lacquer trees that coats the finest traditional crafts and restores national treasures. In this craft town you can try lacquer-coating or maki-e (gold-relief) decoration of a bowl, a hands-on encounter with a rare Japanese art.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Ninohe (Joboji), Iwate |
| Hours | By reservation |
| Admission | Workshop ~¥3,000 |
| Time needed | About 1.5 hours |
| Best time | Year-round |
What to Do
- Try lacquer-coating or maki-e decoration of a bowl.
- Learn how domestic urushi is tapped from lacquer trees.
- See why Joboji lacquer restores national treasures.
- Take home your own lacquered piece.
Combine Your Visit
- Pair with a Nanbu ironware workshop in Morioka.
- Explore folklore-rich Tono .
- Read our Iwate overview .
Getting There
- By car: to Joboji in Ninohe, northern Iwate.
- By train + taxi: JR to Ninohe, then taxi (reserve ahead).
Tips
It’s remote in northern Iwate, so reserve ahead and plan the trip. Finished lacquer needs drying time, so pieces may be shipped or collected later.
