Day Trip to Nishida — A Town of Art and Folk Crafts

 

Stroll Through Beautiful Spring Blossoms

 

Sweet spring has arrived! Plum, peach, and cherry blossoms are in full bloom. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape, Nishida-machi in Koriyama City is the perfect place to unwind.

Located about 30 minutes by car from downtown Koriyama, Nishida feels like a world away. Even though it is part of the city, time seems to move more slowly here. It’s an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip—where you can enjoy hanami (flower viewing), appreciate art, and explore local sights all at once.

Two must-visit spots are Deko-Yashiki, known as a home of smiles and warm hospitality, and a charming privately owned homemade museum. Both places offer a peaceful atmosphere where you can forget about daily routines and simply relax.

Spring in Japan can be surprisingly busy—but that’s exactly why now is the perfect time to slow down and visit Nishida.

Takashiba Deko-Yashiki

A Traditional Dolls and Folk Crafts Village

What is Takashiba Deko-Yashiki like?

Takashiba is the birthplace of traditional wooden horse crafts known as Miharu-goma, as well as folk art paper dolls called Miharu Hariko Ningyo. The word “Deko” means “doll,” and “Miharu” comes from the name of the former Miharu Domain (Miharu-han) in the Edo period.

Today, four traditional craft houses still remain in the area. Skilled artisans continue to create Hariko dolls, Hariko masks, and Miharu-goma, carefully preserving techniques passed down through generations. Their distinctive folk culture is still deeply rooted in the community.

Traditional performances such as the Takashiba Shichifukujin Odori (Dance of the Seven Deities) and the Hyottoko Odori (Dance of the Fire Man) have been designated as Important Intangible Folk Cultural Properties of Koriyama City.

A visit to Takashiba Deko-Yashiki offers a nostalgic glimpse into the traditions and atmosphere of old-time Japan—a place where history and craftsmanship are still very much alive.

 

Power Spots

Within the small hamlet of Deko-Yashiki, you’ll find numerous shrines, miniature altars, cherry blossom trees, and even a few spiritual “power spots.”

One reason the community has been able to preserve its traditions for generations may be its deep respect for local deities and long-standing rituals. The people here have carefully protected their folk beliefs along with their crafts.

You can explore these special places through a guided walking event called “Deko Walking” (participation fee required). Led by one of the local craft artisans, the tour introduces each meaningful spot in the village. Along the way, you may even hear rare and fascinating stories directly from studio owners or their successors.

 

You Might Catch a Glimpse of the Hyottoko Dance!

Hashimoto Hiroji Mingei (Folk Art Studio)

If you’re lucky, you may even see a performance of the Hyottoko Dance, a humorous folk dance that’s sure to make you smile.

Hashimoto Hiroji Mingei is both a working studio and a private residence, open to visitors during business hours. When you step up from the doma (the traditional earthen entrance space) onto the tatami floor, you’ll immediately feel at ease—almost as if you were visiting a relative’s home in the countryside.

The warm, lived-in atmosphere makes it easy to relax and appreciate the craftsmanship up close.

 

If you see something you like, feel free to pick it up and take a closer look. You can also watch the artisans at work and observe the craft-making process up close.

There are around 80 different kinds of items, including traditional dolls, zodiac ornaments, masks, and more.

Next to the studio, a small private museum displays old wooden molds collected from various workshops, dolls dating back to the Edo period, and other valuable materials. It’s a rare chance to see the history and craftsmanship behind these beloved folk arts.

 

Mr. Hiroji Hashimoto is a master of the Hyottoko Dance, performing at various events throughout the region.

He says that the foundation of both his doll-making and dancing lies in the knowledge and skills passed down through generations. These traditions have shaped who he is today.

Even now, he continues to refine his craft, always striving to reach new heights while honoring the heritage he has inherited.

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Here is a Hyottoko Dance video.↓

 

Tsurushibina — Hanging Decorations for Girls’ Festival

Tsurushibina are traditional hanging decorations displayed during Girls’ Festival (Hinamatsuri) in Japan. At this studio, each small ornament on the string is carefully crafted from hariko (papier-mâché).

They have recently begun producing and selling these handmade decorations.

Prices (tax included):

• Small: ¥12,000

• Medium: ¥20,000

• Large: ¥35,000

• Individual hanging ornament (single string): ¥3,000

Each piece is lovingly made, bringing a warm and festive touch to seasonal celebrations.

 

A samurai warrior on horse looks brave. Perfect for boy’s day celebration. 12,000JPY

 

 

The themes of these dolls are Kabuki and traditional Japanese dance. Their dynamic poses and expressive faces are beautifully detailed—so captivating that words can hardly describe them.

Prices: ¥2,000–¥5,000

Each piece captures the elegance and dramatic spirit of Japan’s performing arts.

 

It feels almost like pop art—bold, unconventional, and full of personality. The bright colors and striking designs stand out beautifully against the backdrop of a traditional Japanese house, instantly catching your eye.

 

 

Hashimoto Hiroji Mingei (Folk Art Studio)

Address: 41 Aza Fukuuchi, Takashiba, Nishida-machi, Koriyama City
Phone: 024-971-3900
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed: Open year-round (365 days a year)

 

Honke Ebisuya

A Folk Art Studio with Adorable Manekineko (Lucky Cat Ornaments)

Honke Ebisuya offers a charming selection of crafts, including cute miniature items such as tiny masks, tumbling dolls, and zodiac ornaments, alongside more traditional, classic pieces.

Whether you’re looking for something small and playful or a more orthodox folk craft, you’ll find plenty of delightful treasures here.

 

Their lineup also includes adorable, round-bodied owl ornaments known as “Fuku Fukurou (Lucky Owl)”, along with bold wild boars, fierce tigers, red-faced hens, playful dogs, and more. Each piece has a humorous, expressive face—it almost feels as if they’re about to start talking to you.

No matter what your zodiac sign is, you may find yourself wanting to collect them all. They make wonderful lucky gifts or charming additions to your own collection.

As I was admiring the many Manekineko and other cat ornaments on display, thinking there couldn’t possibly be any more… a real cat suddenly appeared! The sight of a cat relaxing in a traditional house with a warm hearth was simply picturesque—like stepping into a scene from another time.

 

The charming “Men-kaburi Neko” (a cat with a mask on its head) is priced at 800 JPY, and you can choose your favorite mask to pair with it.

A single miniature mask is 500 JPY. Each mask is carefully crafted from six layers of traditional washi paper, making it both lightweight and durable.

Manekineko (Lucky Cat): 1,800 JPY
Fuku Fukurou (Lucky Owl): 1,800 JPY

Both are charming symbols of good fortune and make perfect gifts or keepsakes.

 

They carefully preserve and display rare wooden molds, offering a glimpse into the history and craftsmanship behind their work.

 

 

If you’re lucky, you might even meet the real “lucky cat,” Kote-chan — a black female cat who quietly watches over the studio.

 

Honke Ebisuya

Address: 161, Aza Tateno, Takashiba, Nishida-machi, Koriyama City
Tel: 024-972-2204
Open Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Closed: Thursdays

A charming folk art studio where traditional craftsmanship and playful lucky charms come together.

 

Come and visit! Experience a beautiful harmony of traditional and modern styles.

Honke Daikokuya

Daikokuya Traditional House

For over 300 years, they have continued crafting Miharu-goma and Hariko, carefully preserving time-honored traditions passed down through generations.

At the same time, they are passionately embracing new ideas and creative challenges, blending heritage with fresh innovation.

 

Head-in-hole photo board — doesn’t it make you want to try it?

 

 

The Oriental zodiac traditionally consists of twelve animals—but in this showcase, you’ll find thirteen. A cat has been added, inspired by the old folktale of the cat who was tricked and missed becoming one of the zodiac animals.

It’s a charming addition, especially for cat lovers and collectors.

Even the small cushion beneath each ornament is handmade. Every piece is carefully crafted one by one, reflecting the studio’s dedication and attention to detail.

 

You can also try your hand at craft painting here.

• Mame-daruma (miniature tumbling doll): 864 JPY

• Zodiac sign ornament: 1,296 JPY each

• Miharu-goma: 1,728 JPY

It’s a fun and memorable experience where you can create your own one-of-a-kind piece to take home.

 

This old traditional house, built about 120 years ago, features a tall ceiling and an open, airy space.

The family once engaged in sericulture, and traces of that history still linger in the atmosphere of the house, adding to its authentic charm.

 

Other highlights include a life-size Hariko white bear head created through a project planned by renowned footballer Hidetoshi Nakata.

You can also see bold and modern Hariko works produced in collaboration with leading designer Junko Koshino.

Another remarkable piece is the “Tachiagare Pen (Self-Righting Pen)”, developed through a project led by acclaimed architect Kengo Kuma.

The exhibits are truly worth seeing, showcasing daring designs and vibrant colors that beautifully blend tradition with contemporary creativity.

 

The master artist, Yurie, is trying her hand at painting a Mame-daruma!

These miniature tumbling dolls are especially popular here thanks to their wide range of colorful variations. With sample designs placed beside her for inspiration, she truly enjoyed the painting experience.

 

Honke Daikokuya Deko-Yashiki Daikokuya Traditional House

Address: 163 Aza-Tateno, Takashiba, Nishida-machi, Koriyama City
Tel: 024-971-3176
Open Hours: 9:00am–5:00pm
Closed Days: None (Open 365 days a year)

 

Hikoji Folk Art Studio

A 400-Year-Old Thatched-Roof Folk Art Studio

You can easily recognize the studio by its nostalgic thatched roof, standing gracefully as a reminder of centuries past.

Beside the signboard, a large Miharu-goma welcomes visitors, offering a charming first glimpse into the world of traditional folk craft.

 

Antique clocks, lamps, and various vintage items displayed along the eaves, ceiling, and walls quietly speak of the studio’s long history.

Each piece adds character to the space, creating an atmosphere where time seems to slow down.

 

Shadow picture artist Seiji Fujishiro created an artwork featuring this beautiful thatched-roof house. The piece is now preserved at the Seiji Fujishiro Museum.

At this studio, a wide variety of folk art items are crafted, including hariko ornaments of the Oriental zodiac, masks, and tumbling dolls.

The wooden carved horse, Miharu-goma, was even selected as the very first stamp motif for Japanese New Year’s cards—an honor that highlights its cultural significance.

 

Each studio in Deko-Yashiki has its own distinctive character, creating unique interpretations of the same traditional themes.

At this studio, one of the defining features is its adorable sense of “cuteness,” beautifully blended with time-honored craftsmanship.

The “Dai-chan Ningyo on Miharu-goma” was created by the 10th-generation owner, Takanobu Hashimoto, using his son Daisuke as the model. (From 3,240 JPY for 4-sun size: approx. 12 cm.)

The “Gakuto-kun Ningyo on Miharu-goma” is made using the same mold and is also available from 3,240 JPY for the 4-sun size.

These charming pieces perfectly express the studio’s warm and playful spirit while honoring tradition.

Feel free to try painting your own piece!

• Miniature tumbling doll: 500 JPY

• Hariko ornament (Oriental zodiac sign): 1,000 JPY each

• Miharu-goma (3-sun size, approx. 9 cm): 1,200 JPY

It’s a fun, hands-on experience where you can create a unique keepsake to take home.

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The Sakura-goma, beautifully painted in soft pink, is especially popular in spring.

(From 1,296 JPY, tax included.)

 

Masamune Daruma & Mego-hime Daruma
(Tumbling dolls – 1,620 JPY each, tax included)

Charming and full of character, these daruma make delightful gifts or meaningful keepsakes.

 

 

Oichi Chaya

A Teahouse in the Town of Plum Blossoms

Come and enjoy a meal in this charming teahouse nestled in a town known for its beautiful plum blossoms.

With its nostalgic Showa-era retro atmosphere, Oichi Chaya is the perfect spot to relax and take a break while strolling around the area.

Step inside, slow down, and savor a moment of old-fashioned comfort.

 

Step inside and you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into a Japanese version of an old-fashioned candy shop where children used to stop by after school. The nostalgic atmosphere adds to the charm.

In addition to meals and light snacks, the eatery also sells healthy specialty products and local folk art items.

Some of their popular healthy selections include:

• “Yakuzen Yaki Nin-niku” – medicinal-style grilled garlic, simmered in a tsukudani-like sauce with soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings.

• “Dattan Soba-cha” – roasted Tartary buckwheat tea, known for containing higher levels of rutin than regular buckwheat.

• “Inago Tsukudani” – locusts simmered in sweet soy sauce, a traditional protein-rich delicacy.

These time-honored foods are said to support vitality and longevity—maybe even help you live a longer life!

↓Inago Tsukudani

The famous catchphrase “Daijobu dah”, popularized by Japanese comedian Ken Shimura, was inspired by a conversation he had with an elderly woman named Oichi here.

In Showa 61 (1986), he visited this spot for a TV program shoot together with actress Chiemi Hori.

This charming anecdote adds another layer of nostalgia to the eatery, connecting it to a beloved moment in Japanese entertainment history.

↓Old Glanny Oichi

 

Dattan Soba Soft Serve (300 JPY, tax included)

The fragrant aroma of roasted Dattan buckwheat pairs surprisingly well with the creamy vanilla flavor. It’s sweet, yet the aftertaste is light and refreshing.

The crispy roasted buckwheat sprinkled on top adds a delightful crunch and a perfect finishing touch.

 

Deko Zaru Soba
(Chilled soba noodles on a tray – 700 JPY, tax included)

This satisfying set features refreshing chilled soba noodles served with Miharu’s specialty—grilled, deep-fried tofu.

The combination of smooth, flavorful soba and crispy, savory tofu makes for a hearty and delicious meal that will leave you feeling pleasantly full.

 

Oichi Dango Mochi
(Skewered rice flour dumpling, soy sauce flavor – 200 JPY, tax included)

These freshly grilled dumplings are brushed with savory soy sauce, creating a simple yet comforting taste. Soft and chewy with a lightly caramelized finish, they make the perfect snack during your stroll.

Oichi Chaya

Address: 169, Aza Tateno, Takashiba, Nishida-machi, Koriyama City
Tel: 024-971-3907
Open Hours: 9:00am–5:00pm
Closed: Thursdays

A nostalgic roadside eatery where you can relax, enjoy local flavors, and take a sweet break during your stroll.

 

Yawaragi Museum

A Small Museum Nestled in the Woods

Discover gentle, heartwarming art created by artists from various regions—an experience to be enjoyed with all five senses.

As you walk up the slope, you’ll catch sight of the museum building behind a graceful weeping cherry tree. Its roofline retains the silhouette of a traditional thatched roof, blending harmoniously with the surrounding nature.

 

A charming stone sculpture marks the entrance, topped with a little owl. Next to the museum building, there’s an appointment-only café where visitors can relax and enjoy a quiet break.

 

The sign sculpture carries a heartfelt message:
“May everyone enjoy being surrounded by art in a natural and peaceful environment…”

It perfectly reflects the museum’s serene atmosphere and its dedication to connecting visitors with art and nature.

 

The Yawaragi Museum opened on June 1, 2014. Its story began around 20 years earlier, when the owner, Ms. Oshima, purchased her first painting. Over time, she developed a deep appreciation for art and gradually surrounded herself with many more artworks.

Through connections with gallery owners and artists, opening a museum became her dream—and after five years of planning and hard work, it became a reality. She and her friends tackled tasks like trimming bamboo in the backyard and using it to line the walls.

Finally, they renovated her grandfather’s 120-year-old house, long vacant, transforming it into the welcoming museum it is today—a harmonious space where art and history meet.

 

Much of the house’s original character remains intact—the dusky ceiling, wooden pillars, floors, and hearth have been preserved, giving the space a warm, nostalgic feel. Soft light from incandescent lamps adds to the cozy atmosphere.

Artworks are displayed throughout the museum, offering new discoveries and enjoyment with every visit. Some sculptures are even touchable, inviting a hands-on experience. For convenience, the museum also features a barrier-free bathroom.

 

The museum’s exhibits primarily come from the owner’s personal collection, featuring works by artists such as Yoshio Nagata, Denju Sugeno, and Kentaro Sato.

In addition to visual art, the museum hosts drama performances and musical recitals. This year marks the 5th anniversary of this charming homemade museum.

One highlight is “Nekoneko [CatCat]”, a playful piece painted with free, expressive brushstrokes by Yoshio Nagata, capturing the lively spirit of cats in a whimsical style.

 

Artworks aren’t just inside the house—they’re also displayed throughout the yard, creating a delightful outdoor gallery where visitors can enjoy art while strolling among nature.

 

 

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