Experience Toogatta kokeshi tradition and try painting yourself
About this spot
Toogatta is known as the birthplace of the 'Toogatta-style' kokeshi, one of the three major kokeshi traditions in Northeast Japan. This museum showcases the history and artistry of this traditional craft. Inside, numerous kokeshi with varied expressions and designs are displayed, revealing the depth of traditional craftsmanship. In the demonstration corner, you can watch craftsmen turn kokeshi on a lathe, and participate in painting experiences to create your own kokeshi to take home—a popular memory for both children and adults.
Season & hours
Name: 遠刈田温泉仮装盆踊り大会
Date & time: 8/13 (Thu)–8/14 (Fri) Time TBA
Venue: 刈田郡蔵王町・遠刈田温泉(蔵王通り)
遠刈田温泉の蔵王通りを会場に毎年開かれる、地元の人たちが仮装をして参加するユニークな盆踊り大会です。2026年は8月13日・14日の2日間にわたって開催され、初日から思い思いの仮装をした踊り手たちが通りに繰り出します。旅館の宿泊客や地元住民が入り交じって踊る輪は、観光地ならではの開放的で温かい雰囲気に包まれています。温泉街の湯けむりと提灯の灯りが重なり合う独特の情景も、この祭りならではの魅力です。
Tips
会場周辺は車両通行止めになることがあるため、徒歩での来場が安心です。仮装は必須ではなく見学だけでも楽しめますが、参加してみると一体感がより深まります。山あいの夜は冷え込むこともあるので、薄手の羽織ものがあると安心です。
Tips
From Zao Fox Village, driving is convenient. For the painting experience, it's best to book in advance with extra time. Allow time for the finished piece to dry; confirm the required time at the reception desk.
Best time to visit
Allow about 45 minutes. Early afternoon is relatively quiet with easier availability for experience bookings.
Access & map
〒989-0916 Miyagi Prefecture, Katta District, Zao Town, Toogatta Hot Spring, Shinchi Nishi Urayama 36 No. 135
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