Experience a one-of-a-kind craft activity
by connecting with trees
in a private forestry area.
Forest tourism and
woodworking experience
near Tokyo with a
Mountain Artist.
- Ecological lecture by a "Mountain
Artist" - Log cutting experience and relaxation
at the base of your favorite tree - Create a unique smartphone stand
that exists nowhere else in the world
A Moment to Enjoy Log Cutting, Forest Relaxation, and Crafting in the Nishikawa Timber Forest
Nishikawa timber is a brand of wood
that was historically used
in the architecture of Tokyo.
The name originates from the idea of timber being transported from the western regions relative to Tokyo.
Managing trees that are over a hundred of years old and coexisting with the ecosystem is akin to the work of a "Mountain Artist."
In a forestry area with international forest certification,
which is not open to the public,
you can enjoy the scents of three different types of wood,
recognize the importance of thinning through a log-cutting experience,
and find your favorite tree to spend a relaxing time at its base, conversing with the tree.
You can also experience crafting by writing your chosen kanji with a wood-burning pen on timber shaped like Edo Castle, and take home a one-of-a-kind smartphone stand as a souvenir.
Premium Nishikawa Timber: Cedar and Cypress
The quality of carefully cultivated forestry.
Nishikawa timber offers high-quality cedar and cypress, ideal for use in the most prominent parts of buildings and spaces,
such as decorative materials or wooden barrels.
These materials are perfect for applications
that require the finest quality.
SUGICedar
HINOKICypress
Tour Content
-
01
Greeting with the Guide at Higashi-Agano Station
and Ride in the Guide's CarAfter exiting the ticket gate of the nature-rich Higashi-Agano Station,
look for the guide holding a tour placard. Meet your fellow participants for the day
and receive a briefing from the guide.
Then, travel to the activity location in the guide's car.
-
02
Lecture at the Woodworking Studio
At the woodworking studio "Kirakuri," where the craft activity takes place,
receive a lecture from the master of the forestry family, a "Mountain Artist," about Nishikawa timber and the history of forestry.
-
03
Ecosystem Lecture at the
Private Forestry AreaDepart for a private forestry area with international forest certification,
which is not open to the public.
First, pay respects to the mountain deity that protects the forest.
Then, learn about the management of trees that are over a hundred of years old,
unique cultivation methods,
and the ecosystem that the forestry family has preserved, while experiencing it firsthand.
-
04
Activities in the Forestry Area
After learning about the importance of thinning to protect forests and nurture trees,
experience log cutting as part of the process. Enjoy the scents of three different types of wood grown in the private forestry area,
find your favorite tree,
and spend a relaxing time at its base, conversing with the tree.
-
05
Craft Activity
Return to the woodworking studio and select your favorite kanji character.
Experience crafting by writing the chosen kanji with a wood-burning pen on timber shaped like Edo Castle.
Take home a one-of-a-kind smartphone stand that you created as a souvenir.
I will be your guide for this tour.
Shuntaro Inoue
Born in 1993, he was raised as the successor of a forestry family which has continued since the Edo period. From an early age, he grew up surrounded by nature, learning the charm of forests. After graduating from university, he majored in forestry at the Gifu Prefectural Academy of Forest Culture, where he acquired specialized knowledge and skills. Subsequently, he gained practical experience by working at a sawmill, managing forests and raw wood.
Later, he returned to Hanno to take over the family business, dedicating himself to regional forest conservation and the development of sustainable forestry. In 2024, he will inherit the position of representative of Soryn Co., Ltd. from his father, striving to preserve tradition while introducing new perspectives to shape the future of forestry.
I enjoy trail running, and my favorite food is anmitsu.
Participant Reviews
-
United States
Through this tour, I learned about the history of the famous "Nishikawa Timber" and the traditions and legacy of forestry families who have been practicing forestry for over 300 years. The tour offers informative sessions, a brief forest tour, and the opportunity to create a personalized souvenir, making it a perfect experience for those seeking a unique adventure during their exploration of Japan.
-
Japan
I explored a forest that has been carefully preserved for generations by Inoue Forestry, which boasts a 300-year history. Observing and touching living cedar and cypress trees up close was a first-time experience for me, and it gave me a new perspective on timber. The forest bathing experience felt particularly sacred. Additionally, the small craft activity was very fulfilling and enjoyable, making this tour truly delightful!
-
Taiwan
This was a very enjoyable experience. The tour is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature and learn about the background of traditional Japanese architecture. Being able to cut wood myself was incredibly interesting. Customizing a smartphone stand with a wood-burning pen was also a lot of fun and a completely new experience for me. The staff were amazing, and I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves nature!
Course Overview
Forest Tourism and
Woodworking Experience Tour
Duration
Approximately 3 hours
Price
13,200 yen（Tax included）
Meeting Point
In front of the ticket gate at Seibu Railway Higashi-Agano Station.
The guide holding a greeting board will be waiting for you.
Access
Ikebukuro
Station
Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Limited Express Musashi No. 23 bound for Hanno [39 minutes]
Seibu Ikebukuro/Chichibu Line, Local Train bound for Seibu-Chichibu [15 minutes]
Ikebukuro
Station
Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Limited Express Chichibu No. 21 bound for Seibu-Chichibu [38 minutes]
Seibu Ikebukuro/Chichibu Line, Local Train bound for Seibu-Chichibu [17 minutes]
Hanno
Higashi
Agano
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is a guide included in the tour?
A. Yes, this tour includes an English-speaking guide.
Q. What is the tour's cancellation policy?
A. Cancellations made up to 24 hours before the tour start time are free of charge. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the start time will incur a 100% cancellation fee.
Q. Can children participate in the tour?
A. Yes, children are welcome to join the tour.
Q. Are there any items I need to bring for the tour?
A. There are no specific items required, but as the tour involves walking in the forest, we recommend wearing long sleeves, long pants, and comfortable walking shoes.
Places to Visit
Alongside This Tour
Tourist spots where you can avoid crowds and enjoy the seasonal beauty of nature and historical townscapes at a relaxed pace.
-
Kawagoe
Kawagoe’s Kurazukuri Townscape
Known as "Little Edo," Kawagoe preserves the charm of the Edo period with its Kurazukuri (traditional warehouse-style) townscape, the iconic Toki no Kane (Time Bell Tower), and a harmonious blend of long-established Japanese confectionery shops and modern cafes. It’s a place filled with the joy of strolling through streets that feel both nostalgic and fresh.
Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and warmth of the local people while experiencing the gentle flow of time. -
Chichibu
Nature and Culture Interwoven in the Chichibu Region
Find tranquility at the majestic Chichibu Shrine, and take deep breaths surrounded by the spiritual atmosphere of Hodosan Shrine and Mitsumine Shrine.
Enjoy the seasonal beauty of nature, such as the spring Shibazakura (moss phlox) at Hitsujiyama Park and the stunning autumn foliage at Nakatsu Gorge.
Savor local cuisine made with fresh ingredients and the flavors of historic sake breweries, adding to the joy of your journey.
Just a short trip from the city, you’ll discover a rich and peaceful experience here.
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