• KRaft Tour - The tour starts 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 modern technology. Located in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, visitors can watch the creation of high-quality cutting tools, like nipper-style nail clippers. Skilled artisans meticulously handcraft each item, showcasing how traditional methods blend with contemporary technology. This tour 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 glimpse into the detailed process of crafting luxury chopsticks and cutlery. Marunao is famous for its use of rare woods, and visitors can see artisans expertly shaping each piece into precisely designed cutlery.

During the tour, participants will learn about the carefully chosen materials and how the artisans’ skills, refined over many years, are evident in each product. The blend of traditional techniques and modern technology is central 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 bicycle. 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 as they are led to historic workshops and local attractions that are usually 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.

Throughout the tour, participants will witness the dedication and skill of the craftsmen, gaining a deeper appreciation for the lifestyle in the Tsubame-Sanjo area. This activity is suitable for both solo travelers and groups.

• This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

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