basic information

Lacquerware is a particular specialty of Japan, and in Japan it is a particular specialty of the Kiso Valley. The smooth, glazed bowls and dishes are enjoyed for their aesthetic appeal and complement the flavors of a Japanese meal. The most commonly seen lacquerware is the bowl in which miso soup is served.

Kiso-Hirasawa is a village that developed outside the post town of Narai during the Edo Period. It gradually developed a certain prestige as its lacquer products became renowned throughout Japan. Today, Kiso-Hirasawa still capitalizes on its popularity as a producer of lacquer goods.

Numerous lacquer stores are located throughout Kiso-Hirasawa, as well as a museum about lacquering called Kisoshikkikan. It is almost all in Japanese, but has many impressive lacquered goods on display. It also shows the tools and techniques that are involved in the lacquering process. The shops offer lacquerware of all types that are usually quite expensive, though modestly priced goods can also be found.

Kisoshikkikan Museum

One of many lacquer shops

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how to get there

Kiso-Hirasawa is located just two kilometers or a two minute train ride north of Narai. Limited express trains between Nagoya and Nagano do not stop at Kiso-Hirasawa Station. Instead, change to a local train at Shiojiri or Kiso-Fukushima.

Kiso-Hirasawa's town center is compact and can be explored on foot.

How to get to and around the Kiso Valley

hours and fees

Kisoshikkikan
Hours:	9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 from Dec to Mar)
Closed:	Mondays (if Monday is a holiday, the following day instead)
Admission:	200 yen

travel community

Users who have been to Kiso Valley: 25
Users who have been to Hirasawa: 1

5th of 5 most visited sights in Kiso Valley.
406th of 417 most visited sights nationwide.

hotels & ryokan

tours and packages

Kiso Valley village-to-village walking Nakasendo trail tour from Tokyo to Kyoto, visiting hot springs, and traditional ryokan.

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