Venturing solo across multiple countries and extensively within Japan’s borders, I consider myself an avid traveler. However, an exceptional journey was rendered more enriching and insightful by YUTours, an expert-guided experience uncovering the depths of Shiga Prefecture. This cultural treasure trove was amazing throughout thanks to YUTours’ well-versed staff, boasting profound knowledge in Japanese culture and a hold on insider details that truly amplified the journey’s richness.

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The Tour

The journey commences at 8:20AM at Kusatsu Station in Shiga Prefecture. As a someone who is absolutely not a morning person, I was dying… But it was so worth it in the end. This full-day YUTours adventure takes you through the stunning southern countryside and highlands to Shigaraki, infamously recognized for its abundance of skilled pottery craftspeople and the native Japanese raccoon dogs, or tanuki. Revel in the rich pottery and ceramic heritage of Shigaraki, the origin of majority of the nation’s ceramic tanuki sculptures.

Your cultural immersion will include visiting assorted pottery studios where you’ll have the opportunity to create one-of-a-kind Shigaraki-yaki, the local pottery. Dine on delectable local cuisine, featuring Shiga’s famous Omi beef. Before heading back to Ishiyama Station from Shigaraki, your cultural journey concludes with a visit to a local tea master’s house, learning about the Japanese traditions of tea-making and tasting.

Initiate your tour with a picturesque view of the Shiga countryside as you travel via the Shigaraki Kogen Railway. Be prepared for a delightful visual as you reach Shigaraki Station, adorned with numerous differently-sized ceramic tanuki both inside and outside. The sight is one not to be missed during Christmas, when the tanuki are festively dressed in Santa Claus costumes. Imagine the staff getting up early in the morning chill to dress them all up one by one before first train… I could never.

Next, your guide unravels the deep-rooted history of Shigaraki, a must-visit ancient town before guiding you to the first captivating stop of the day. Explore diverse studios and shops along the main road from the station, presenting an assortment of items with a wide price range.

Experience the allure of Shigaraki pottery, renowned for its quality with select pieces fetching upwards of 500,000 JPY. A tour through these shops isn’t just shopping—it’s a sneak peek into the thrilling array of experiences that await you in this charming town.

As you venture beyond Shigaraki’s initial array of pottery shops, discover the tranquil beauty of the Shingu Shrine. This Shinto place of worship exemplifies Shigaraki’s serene countryside vibe. Strolling through this picturesque landscape is a must-do during your visit, offering exclusive views and experiences unique to the area.

Embark on a leisurely stroll through the stunning scenery that’s a visitor’s delight, promising unparalleled vistas and one-of-a-kind adventures native to this charming locale. Don’t miss out on the exclusive perspectives and singular experiences that define the essence of the region.

Another highlight of this is that you will be able to see exactly how they are all made, from the molding to the baking process.

The giant ovens that they use to bake the clay are absolutely stunning. If you are lucky, you will be able to see inside of it and possibly step inside as well for a perfect photo-op. You will be able to visit a few more studios and galleries, of which you may purchase some exquisite souvenirs that, will be sure to please even the hardest of gift-givers.

Local Delicacies: Savoring Omi Beef

Are you ready for a well-deserved gastronomic treat? After all the walking, it’s time to indulge in a sumptuous lunch featuring Omi beef, a culinary gem tucked away in the heart of Japan. Ranked among the top three Japanese meats, this fine delicacy not only contends with the best of Australian and American beef but stands out as a truly exceptional experience. Prepare your palate for an encounter with one of Japan’s proudest exports—Omi beef is not just a meal; it’s a positively superb journey of taste.

Unique Pottery Making Experience: Craft Your Shigaraki-yaki

Feeling full and satisfied from your mouth-watering Omi Beef lunch? Let’s take the creativity up a notch as we guide you to a quaint local studio. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in crafting your very own Shigaraki-yaki pottery. Embrace the opportunity to meet the warm-hearted studio owners—a skilled craftsman and his wife—who will warmly usher you into a hands-on pottery experience.

Within 1-2 hours, you’ll transform a 1-2 kilogram ball of clay into personal creations. Whether you fancy making sleek Japanese tea cups or designing your own Western-style mugs and plates, the choice is yours. I fashioned two stylish cups and a couple of medium to large plates myself! The number of items you can create will depend on your design choices and the size you envisage from the generous portion of clay provided.

Don’t worry if you’re new to pottery; our expert hosts are always within reach to guide you gently through the process. Their friendly banter makes for an engaging atmosphere that’s just as memorable as the pieces you’ll create.

Expect to reunite with your finished Shigaraki-yaki pieces after approximately three months—patience is a small price to pay for such distinctive artistry. Whether you opt for the convenience of shipping or the excitement of picking them up in person, the joy of holding your one-of-a-kind pottery is an unmatched reward of this creative journey.

Unwind with a Traditional Japanese Tea Experience in Asamiya

What’s the ideal way to wrap up an active day of exploration? I’d say it’s with a tranquil tea tasting session in the scenic Asamiya. Take a leisurely taxi ride and prepare to steep yourself in the art of Japanese tea. You’re in for a treat as a local tea aficionado and his partner welcome you into their tea sanctuary.

You’ll embark on a flavorful journey – an authentic tea experience, learning directly from the master. From the verdant tea fields to the delicate art of brewing, every step is a story. Discover the subtleties behind Japan’s favorite beverage as you delve into the world of traditional teas: the robust Matcha, the refreshing Sencha, the toasted notes of Hojicha, and the shade-grown richness of Kabuse-cha, among others.

Ready for a playful twist? Engage your senses in a blind tea-tasting challenge. Guess the teas from their unique flavors, with a few mystery drinks added to the mix. Whether you trust your palate or rely on sheer luck, it’s all about the fun of discovery. Pair this engaging game with delicate sweets and crispy rice crackers, thoughtfully provided to complement your tea experience.

Before the day ends, seize the opportunity to converse with the tea master—a chance to deepen your appreciation or satisfy your curiosity about this cultural pastime. It’s the ultimate soothing conclusion to a day filled with walking and creativity. Not just a tea lesson, but a warm memory to cherish from Asamiya.

Would I Recommend It?

Absolutely! The day tour by YUTour is highly recommended if you would like to see and take part in a more cultural side to Japan that you won’t have the chance to anywhere else!

Capture The World experienced the Private Day Tour as a guest of YUTours and Shiga Prefecture Registered Travel Agency, however all opinions expressed are my honest opinions based on my personal experiences.