Onigawara and Echizen Tiles Activity

The Onigawara and Echizen Tiles Activity at Echizen Seramika provides a unique opportunity to create traditional Japanese roof tiles. From April 2023 to October 2025, participants can enjoy personalized assistance while crafting their own tiles. The activity runs Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM, with shipping available for the finished pieces. Whether you’re interested in preserving cultural heritage or simply seeking a hands-on creative experience, this activity promises an engaging and rewarding journey.

Key Points

• The activity involves creating Onigawara, traditional Japanese roof tiles, using provided clay and machinery at the Echizen Seramika location.
• Private tours are available Monday to Friday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with staff assistance and a meeting point at Echizen Seramika.
• Shipping fees of approximately $30 per person are required for overseas delivery of the handcrafted Onigawara tiles.
• The activity runs from April 1, 2023, to October 12, 2025, and booking confirmation is received within 48 hours.
• The private tour is priced at $87.80 per person and has a non-refundable policy, with infants required to sit on laps.

Activity Overview

The Onigawara and Echizen Tiles activity in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, allows participants to create their own Onigawara, a type of decorative roof tile, using provided clay and machinery.

Shipping fees for sending Onigawara overseas are approximately $30 per person.

The activity takes place at Echizen Seramika, where staff wearing name tags will be on hand to assist.

The activity concludes at the same meeting point.

Participants can enjoy this private tour/activity during the facility’s operating hours of Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, from April 1, 2023, to October 12, 2025.

Meeting Information

The meeting point for the Onigawara and Echizen Tiles activity is Echizen Seramika, located at 5-12 Ikenokamichō, Echizen, Fukui 915-0873, Japan.

Staff will be identifiable by name tags, making it easy to find them. The activity concludes at the same meeting point as it began.

Participants should plan to arrive at the meeting point on time, as the activity schedule runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, from April 1, 2023, to October 12, 2025.

Schedule

The activity schedule runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, from April 1, 2023, to October 12, 2025.

Participants should confirm the start time with the local provider in advance, as this may vary.

The activity concludes at the same meeting point as the start, Echizen Seramika in Echizen, Fukui Prefecture, Japan.

Visitors are advised to arrive on time, as the staff will be identifiable by their name tags and the activity runs on a set schedule.

Booking Details

Confirmation of the booking is received either at the time of booking or within 48 hours if reserved within 3 days of the travel date, subject to availability.

This private tour/activity is operated by Fukui Tour and is priced at $87.80 per person.

Only your group will participate in the Onigawara and Echizen Tiles activity.

Unfortunately, the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Most travelers can participate, but there are no refunds for cancellations as the booking is non-refundable.

Shipping Fees

Shipping fees for the Onigawara created during the activity run approximately $30 per person. This covers the cost of:

• Secure packaging to protect the delicate ceramic tiles during transit
• Reliable shipping services to ensure timely delivery to your doorstep
• Customs clearance and handling fees for international shipments
• Tracking and insurance to provide peace of mind throughout the delivery process
• Flexibility to accommodate address changes or reshipment if needed

While the shipping fees may seem high, they’re necessary to ensure your Onigawara arrives safely and in pristine condition. This allows you to fully enjoy your handcrafted memento from this unique Japanese cultural experience.

Accessibility

Although the Onigawara and Echizen Tiles activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome to participate by sitting on laps.

The activity caters to most travelers, as long as they can comfortably engage with the provided clay and machinery. Participants will create their own Onigawara, a traditional Japanese roof tile, at the Echizen Seramika facility.

While the premises may not accommodate those with mobility challenges, the hands-on nature of the experience ensures that a wide range of visitors can enjoy crafting these unique tiles.

Participants should keep in mind the activity’s non-refundable policy in case of any limitations.

Participation Eligibility

While the Onigawara and Echizen Tiles activity caters to most travelers, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Additionally:

• Participants must be able to physically create the tiles using the provided clay and machinery.
• The activity is a private tour, with only your group participating.
• It’s important to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance, as the activity operates on a specific schedule.
• Please note that the activity is non-refundable, and no refunds are available for cancellations.

Cancellation Policy

The Onigawara and Echizen Tiles activity is non-refundable, and travelers won’t receive any refunds for cancellations.

Once participants book the experience, they’re committed to it. This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can adequately plan and prepare for the activity.

No-shows or last-minute cancellations can disrupt the schedule and impact other participants. Travelers should carefully consider their plans before booking.

While it’s a unique and memorable experience, it’s important to understand the cancellation terms upfront.

Ultimately, the non-refundable policy helps maintain the integrity of the Onigawara and Echizen Tiles activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Historical Significance of Onigawara in Fukui Prefecture?

Onigawara are traditional roof ornaments originating in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. They’re known for their intricate, demon-like designs that have long been used to protect buildings from evil spirits. Creating onigawara is a centuries-old craft still practiced in the region today.

How Are the Echizen Tiles Traditionally Made?

Echizen tiles are traditionally handcrafted using local clay. Skilled artisans shape the clay into tiles, then fire them in a kiln to create the distinctive Echizen style. This centuries-old technique produces durable, weather-resistant tiles renowned for their unique appearance.

Are There Any Special Techniques Involved in Creating the Onigawara?

The onigawara are created using specialized clay and machinery. Participants learn traditional techniques like sculpting, molding, and glazing to produce the distinctive ogre-faced roof tiles. The process requires skill and attention to detail.

Can Participants Take a Guided Tour of the Echizen Seramika Facility?

Participants can take a guided tour of the Echizen Seramika facility as part of the activity. The staff will lead the group through the production areas, sharing insights into the tile-making process.

Are There Any Additional Activities or Workshops Available at the Site?

The Echizen Seramika facility offers additional workshops where participants can create other ceramic products beyond the Onigawara, such as vases, plates, and decorative tiles. These workshops can be booked alongside the Onigawara activity.

The Sum Up

The Onigawara and Echizen Tiles Activity offers a unique opportunity to create traditional Japanese roof tiles at Echizen Seramika. Participants will enjoy personalized assistance from staff during this engaging experience, which runs from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Each session concludes at the same meeting point, with private tours available for an intimate group setting. Shipping of the handcrafted tiles costs $30 per person, ensuring safe delivery.