Overview
Cycle through a river side road of Uchiko's Washi(Japanese handmade paper) heritage. This immersive washi cycling tour connects you with local artisans while you create one-of-a-kind treasures to take home. ◆ Washi Papermaking & Book Binding at a Local Workshop Work alongside skilled craftspeople to create your own handmade washi sheet. Then craft a unique handbound notebook using your paper as the cover—yours alone. ◆ Discover Hidden Origami Vending Machine A quirky vending machine dispensing miniature origami and paper crafts, showcasing how washi culture weaves into everyday life. ◆ Enjoy Kite Museum Explore traditional Japanese kites (tako) intricately crafted from washi paper. Learn how this durable material has been essential to kite-making for centuries. Enjoy scenic cycling through Uchiko's historic streetscapes and traditional architecture between stops. *Local-guided private tour: exclusive to you Enjoy “Real Japan” at a lovely river side town.
Why travelers book this
What's Included
- Bicycle rental and helmet
- Local English-speaking guide
- Take-home items: your handmade washi handbound book
- Souvenir origami/paper crafts from vending machine (50 yen worth of Origami art per person)
- Kite Museum entry fee
- All workshop materials and fees (handmade washi sheet, handbound book supplies)
What's Not Included
- Other personal expense
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point, pickup options and start time are confirmed on Viator before checkout.
Itinerary
Stop 1
1: JR Uchiko Station or Uchiko Visitor Center Meet your guide, pick up your bicycle, and receive a brief orientation to Uchiko's washi heritage and the day's route.
Stop 2
2: Tenjin Sanshi Washi Workshop Work alongside skilled artisans to create your own handmade washi sheet through the traditional kamisuki (papermaking) process. (Paper making: 20 -30 minutes, Factory tour 20 -30 minutes, while drying papers) Then craft a unique handbound notebook using your paper as the cover—a one-of-a-kind keepsake to take home.(60 minutes)
Stop 3
3: Hidden Origami Vending Machine Discover Uchiko's quirky hidden gem: a vending machine dispensing miniature origami crafts. You get to buy some of the Origami art from the vending machine. (Origami art are sold from 10 yen to This tour includes the purchase of 50 yen worth of Origami art per person.) If you are lucky, you can meet the Origami artist and make an art with her.
Stop 4
Explore a delightful collection of traditional Japanese kites (tako) intricately crafted from washi paper. Learn how this durable material has been essential to kite-making for centuries. (Museum entry included)(Weather permitting, kite flying is possible.)
Stop 5
5: JR Uchiko Station or Uchiko Visitor Center Return your bicycle.
Important Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels