• KRaft Tour - The tour kicks off at KRaft’s iconic 85-year-old empty warehouse, a place rich with industrial history.
• SUWADA OPEN FACTORY - The Suwada Open Factory tour provides a unique chance to experience Japan’s traditional craftsmanship alongside cutting-edge technology. Located in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, visitors can observe the creation of high-quality cutting tools, such as nipper-style nail clippers. Skilled artisans meticulously handcraft each product, showcasing how traditional techniques blend with modern technology. This experience allows visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication to quality that Suwada Manufacturing Co., Ltd. is celebrated for.
• Marunao - The Marunao Open Factory tour in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, offers a rare opportunity to see the detailed process of crafting high-end chopsticks and cutlery. Marunao is famous for its products made from rare woods, and visitors can watch skilled artisans carefully crafting each piece to create precise and beautifully designed cutlery.

During the tour, participants will learn about the carefully selected materials used in the products and how the artisans’ expertise, developed over many years, is reflected in each item. The blend of traditional techniques and modern technology is essential to the elegance and functionality of Marunao products, and this can be experienced firsthand.

The Marunao factory tour is an invaluable experience for anyone interested in craftsmanship and the art of manufacturing.

• Sanjo - Transportation to local open factory tours will be by cycling. Sanjo City is surrounded by stunning mountains and rivers, offering scenic views that change with the seasons. Visitors can enjoy exploring the city and its natural surroundings at a relaxed pace.

• Private transportation
• Tour guide
• Bottled water
• Bicycle use
• Gratuities

• Alcoholic beverages
• Dinner
• Lunch

Explore the streets of this industrial town by cycling and gain exclusive access to local workshops that are typically not open to the public, allowing you to observe the artisans’ skills firsthand.

During this tour, participants will ride a high-performance e-Bike, enjoying the breeze while being led to historic workshops and local attractions that are generally off-limits, all thanks to the expert guidance of a local tour guide. Additionally, a small machete crafted by a local artisan will be given as a souvenir.

The tour offers an opportunity to appreciate the dedication and craftsmanship of local artisans, providing a deeper insight into life in the Tsubame-Sanjo area. This experience is available for both individual travelers and groups.

• This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.