Experience Local Artisanship at KAI Alps
Craft your own traditional Mizu-uchiwa at KAI Alps, guided by the master artisans of Shinshu Matsuzaki Washi.
| Experience Local Artisanship at KAI Alps | |
|---|---|
| Period | Wed, Apr 1, 2026 – Fri, Jul 17 |
| Time | Day 1 (Arrival Day): Washi Papermaking | 8:00 PM – 9:30 PM Day 2 (Departure Day): Fan Crafting | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM |
| Appropriate age | For all ages |
| Price | JPY 7,000 per person (In addition to room rate) |
| Capacity | Up to 2 groups per day (2 to 4 guests per group) |
| Schedule | Day 1 (Arrival Day) 2:30 PM | Local Revelry: Rural Experiences by the Irori Hearth 4:00 PM | Onsen Iroha: An Introduction to Hot Spring Bathing 4:30 PM | Onsen Bathing: Relaxing in the Thermal Waters 5:30 PM | Kaiseki Dinner: Traditional Multi-course Cuisine 8:00 PM | A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship: Shinshu Matsuzaki Washi Papermaking Day 2 (Departure Day) 8:30 AM | Breakfast: Local Flavors of Shinshu 10:00 AM | A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship: Mizu-uchiwa Fan Crafting 11:00 AM | Activity Concludes &Check-out |
| Hosted in | Japanese |
| Reservation | 7 days in advance |
What is "A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship"?
This is a signature cultural program where guests can witness or participate in the rare techniques of local artisans and producers. Engaging with the living traditions of a region refreshes the spirit and enriches the heart. At KAI properties across Japan, we offer these unique "moments" to connect you deeply with the local way of life.
Crafting a "Mizu-uchiwa" with Traditional Matsuzaki Washi Nurtured by the abundant waters of Omachi City, Matsuzaki Washi is a storied traditional craft. In this experience, you will meet Mr. Shuichi Koshihara, the sole successor to this heritage. After learning about the roots of the craft, you will be guided through the delicate process of papermaking to create your own fan. Recommended Experience: Once completed, dip your fan in the cool stream flowing through the courtyard of KAI Alps while enjoying a refreshing footbath—a quintessential Japanese way to find "coolness" in the summer.
Artisan: Mr. Shuichi Koshihara (Shinshu Matsuzaki Washi Industry)
As the third-generation head of Shinshu Matsuzaki Washi Industry, which spans over 90 years, Mr. Koshihara is the only active papermaking artisan remaining in Omachi City. His work is characterized by the warmth of natural leaves and flowers harvested locally and pressed into the paper. From gathering plants to the specialized color-preservation process and final papermaking, he oversees nearly every step alone. His craftsmanship also illuminates KAI Alps, having created the warm washi paper used for the resort’s shoji screens and lanterns.