STORIES

STORIES

See & DoHakone Yosegi Zaiku

Update:2019.03.01

Hakone`s Hatajuku Yosegi Zaiku ia a traditional local craft dating back to the Edo period of Japan.

This craft takes various wood types and uses their natural colors in combination to make geometric works of art. Hatajuku is a small wooded mountain village located between Hakone-Yumoto and Lake Ashi. You can call ahead or even drop in to take part in an experience to learn about the craft or buy personalized gifts.

The woodworking and parquet work is of intricate patterns used to make chopstick, layer boxes, coasters and other things.  If you call ahead or even drop in you can take part in a experience making things like your own coaster. Every year the trophy for one of Japan`s most popular sporting events, the Hakone Ekiden, is made by the master craftsmen of Hatajuku.

Hatajuku is easily accessed by bus from Hakone Yumoto Station. It is located between Lake Ashi and Hakone Yumoto. The mountain village is small enough to explore on foot. There are many local shops and the Old Tokaido Road also runs through the middle of Hatajuku.