Hands-On Lantern Making in Nagoya's Historic District
New Activity
Wazamon Chaya
- Learn the history and artistry of Nagoya’s 400-year-old paper lantern tradition
- Create your own lantern under the guidance of a skilled craftsman
- Choose your favorite washi paper and assemble a one-of-a-kind keepsake
- Foldable design makes it easy to take home as a unique souvenir
- Experience Japanese culture in a historic district
What to expect
Step into the world of Nagoya Chōchin, lanterns that have illuminated Japan for over 400 years. Developed under the Tokugawa shoguns, they feature lightweight bamboo frames and glowing washi paper. In the early Meiji era, Nagoya was Japan’s leading producer of paper lanterns, exporting them abroad as symbols of refined Japanese artistry. Still used in temples, festivals, and décor, they remain a warm link between past and present.
At Wazamon Chaya in Japan Culture Village, learn their history before making your own. Select washi paper, paste it to the frame, and assemble a foldable lantern to take home. Afterward, enjoy strolling the village, where shrines, shops, and cafés blend tradition with modern culture.
Pasting your preferred washi paper carefully onto the frame
Pasting your preferred washi paper carefully onto the frame
The workshop is guided by a skilled artisan
Pasting your preferred washi paper carefully onto the frame
The completed piece can be folded for easy transport, making it a memorable and practical souvenir of your trip
Communicating with an AI translation device (if AI translation option is selected)
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