Echizen Roof Tile Factory Tour: Onigawara Making or Tile-Breaking

Learn about traditional Japanese roof tiles, a key element of Japan’s architectural heritage, through Echizen roof tiles, a craft that has protected buildings in Fukui’s snowy climate for centuries. This is the only factory tour where you can visit an active Echizen roof tile production site.

Start with a multilingual video introducing the history and cultural significance of roof tiles, then visit the production site to see skilled artisans at work up close.

After the tour, enjoy hands-on activities such as making a mini onigawara, believed to ward off evil spirits, or try tile breaking inspired by Japanese martial arts for a thrilling sense of achievement.