"Part1" This Spring Trip Guide Near Nagoya (Gifu/Aichi/Mie/Shizuoka) | Top Things to Do in Mino City, Gifu, Mino Washi Craft Experience| Group Tours Welcome | Visitors from 45 Countries | 2026.02.06
2026.02.11Ishikawa Mino Washi Paper Goods Workshop (Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd.)
Workshop Newsletter No. 280
Mino Washi Experience in Gifu, Japan | Top Things to Do in Mino City + Group Tour & Corporate Group Planning Guide
Visited by Guests from 45 Countries! Spring Outing Ideas & “Washi Korokoro” Hands-on Workshop Info
Thank you always for reading!
[As of Feb 5, 2026] Google Reviews: 4.9 stars, 1,087 reviews (and counting)
Your warm feedback keeps our team energized. Thank you so much.
Last week, we had guests all the way from Argentina!
That made them the 45th country to visit our workshop. It feels like a mini world trip—right here in Mino (laughs).
Some people think, “Washi sounds difficult…?” but it’s actually a surprisingly easy, casual, and fun craft experience.
Many visitors drop in during a stroll through the historic streets, and we often hear, “I can’t believe how absorbed I got!”
If you’ve been even a little curious, please come and visit us.
You can enjoy the very same hands-on experience loved by travelers from around the world—just for yourself. :-)
We will keep creating a workshop where you leave thinking, “I’m so glad I came.”
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Our shop is a hands-on craft studio where you can “touch, choose, and create” with Mino Washi (traditional Japanese paper).
While discovering the charm and heritage of Mino Washi, you can make a one-of-a-kind doll or Japanese craft souvenir.
From the soft texture of washi, to choosing colors and patterns, to shaping your own ideas—this is a sensory Japanese cultural experience you can truly enjoy (perfect for inbound tourism, group tours, and team-building).
Our workshop is located in the heart of Mino City’s historic “Udatsu” streetscape.
You can create inside an Edo-period building with a “udatsu” dating back to 1760, within an Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings (selected by the Japanese government).
From solo visitors to up to 50 guests at once (about one tour bus), we can host workshops simultaneously.
For groups over 50, we recommend splitting into a “town stroll & shopping group” and a “workshop group” to enjoy the day smoothly.
Couples, friends, families, group tours, corporate incentive trips, school trips—everyone can share a memorable time together.
We offer craft menus such as Washi Korokoro (washi roly-poly dolls), washi uchiwa fans, washi earrings, washi plates, washi pen holders, and washi bookmarks.
You can follow the sample exactly—totally fine.
You can also create by intuition—also fine.
Or you can design it to match your favorite vibe or character—also welcome.
Why not create a unique, one-of-a-kind souvenir that exists only in your world?
We have 30+ kit types—your “I want to make this!” will be waiting.
Please check our opening schedule and come visit. We look forward to seeing you.
For reservations of 10+ people, we can also accommodate outside business hours.Please contact us to discuss!
For details, please inquire.
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/contact/shop.html
Now accepting group reservations!
For group bookings of 10+ guests,
everyone who joins the workshop
gets 10% OFF all in-store items.
Workshop menu, pricing, and capacity—summarized in one place!
"For Travel Agencies: Group Visit Guide" PDF is here
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/03/43/343_1_file.pdf
Google Reviews: 1,000+! 4.9 stars!
Laugh, create, and it’s done—check our workshop video!
"Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd. Workshop Video" is here! → https://ourl.jp/bckKb
Our hands-on workshop menu includes:
Washi Korokoro washi dolls, washi uchiwa fans, washi earrings, washi plates, washi pen holders, washi bookmarks, and more!
▼ Washi Korokoro DIY Workshop Menu ▼
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/00/82/82_1_file.pdf
You can follow the sample—great!
You can create by your own intuition—great!
You can even design it to match your favorite character—also great!
Come on—let’s make your one-and-only original souvenir!
We have 30+ kits—you're sure to find a favorite.
Please check our opening schedule before visiting. We can’t wait to welcome you!
▼ Shop Opening Days for Feb / Mar / Apr ▼
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_2182.html
[Note] Please contact us! We can accept group reservations even on days not listed above.
▼ Website ▼
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/shop.html
▼ Group Reservation Guide ▼
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/03/43/343_1_file.pdf
▼ Rakuten Online Store ▼
https://www.rakuten.co.jp/ishikawa-shigyo/
Highlights in this issue
[Part 1]
- This week’s news | More and more group tour inquiries—planning even future dates
- In-store items | Limited-time finds: Disney items until sold out! Hina dolls arriving one after another
- 11 reasons tour operators love us | Why groups choose Ishikawa Mino Washi Paper Goods Workshop (Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd.)
- Recommended for group travel | Make a one-of-a-kind piece at our Mino Washi workshop
- Customer gallery | Same kit, totally different results—real creations from guests
- Mayumi’s diary | “The power of daily life” learned through a wild game (gibier) experience
[Part 2]
- Spring in our hometown, Mino City | Find spring on foot: historic streets + cherry blossoms + riverside stroll
- Group workshop operations | Even first-timers are fine—here’s how the process flows
- Access | 5 minutes from Mino IC—easy to include in group itineraries
- Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd. OEM | Turn that character into washi—cute Washi Korokoro production examples (B2B)
- World & Japan challenge | Celebration: guests from our 45th country visited!
- For comfortable enjoyment | Services for guests with disabilities
Two-part feature—now with even more volume!
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- This week’s news | More and more group tour inquiries—planning even future dates
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Recently, we’ve been receiving a steady stream of group provisional booking inquiries,
and we’re truly grateful that some groups are even considering future dates.
Details will likely be finalized around March, but
we’re being considered by school trips, high school educational visits, welfare organizations, and more.
In addition to bookings around May, some groups are even considering reservations for 2027—
and while we think, “That’s still far away…,”
we’re sincerely thankful, and it makes us stand a little straighter (laughs).
Some found us via our website,
others after meeting us at business events—the entry points vary.
We’re grateful that these connections are steadily growing.
We’ll continue valuing workshop design that feels safe and enjoyable even for first-time visitors, while aiming to be a place you’ll say, “I’m glad I came.”
Thank you always.
▼ Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd. Workshop Website ▼
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/shop.html
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- In-store items | Limited-time finds: Disney items until sold out! Hina dolls arriving one after another
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■ Disney items | Limited to 30 pieces, while supplies last (no restock planned)
Disney items have joined our Washi Korokoro series.
Their rounded shape pairs perfectly with the gentle texture of Mino Washi, and they’re very popular in-store.
And here’s an important notice. For this time, these items are:
- Only 30 pieces total (ends when sold out)
- Sold only while supplies last (no restock planned)
- We already have orders, and the remaining stock is gradually decreasing
If you’re thinking, “I want one!” please come sooner rather than later.
You can see the real item in-store and purchase it on the spot.
Perfect for travel memories or gifts.
Come meet the adorable Mickey and friends in Washi Korokoro form!
■ Hina dolls | Handmade warmth to make spring celebrations even more special
Right now, our shop is filled with spring stars—Hina doll items lined up beautifully.
We also have a variety of materials available.
- Mino Washi Hina dolls (gentle texture, elegant presence)
- Chirimen (crepe fabric) Hina dolls (plump and cute, traditional warmth)
- Glass Hina dolls (sparkling and gorgeous, great for modern interiors)
Even with the same “Hina dolls,” different materials create different expressions and atmospheres.
Please enjoy finding the one that feels like, “This is it!”
This year, we also highly recommend our Washi Korokoro Hina-related items.
- Washi Korokoro Hina Dolls: JPY 2,420 (tax included)
A popular item—cute, compact, and easy to display.
- Hina Doll Parts Set: JPY 100 (tax included)
Transform any Washi Korokoro kit into a Hina version with a simple parts add-on!
Recommended for those who love arranging and customizing.
And one more great point.
For eligible items, we make a free personalized name plaque!
(A wonderful way to add a truly special, one-of-a-kind feeling for your child’s celebration.)
Here are a few recommended ways to choose Hina dolls:
- Welcome them as the “main” Hina dolls for your child
- For families with two daughters: choose a shared set + an additional one for the second child
- Enjoy different sizes for different display spaces (parents’ home and your own home, etc.)
Handmade craftsmanship creates gentle expressions and warm character.
This spring, why not celebrate with Hina dolls from Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd.?
If you’re thinking, “Disney and Hina dolls both look interesting…,”
please compare them in person at our shop.
Our staff will be happy to help you choose the perfect one.
▼ Workshop website ▼
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/shop.html
--- Disney description ---
A round, roly-poly Mickey Mouse.
The Mino Washi used here is a traditional Japanese paper with over 1,300 years of history.
Mickey stands back up again and again—just like a “full of energy” Mickey you can’t help but smile at.
The brightness Mickey has brought across generations overlaps with the warm, gentle feeling of washi.
Crafted with techniques handed down at Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd., founded in 1902—an auspicious, feel-good item filled with charm.
▼ Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd. Workshop website ▼
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/shop.html
▼ More details about Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd. are also introduced in the second-half blog!
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_2236.html
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- 11 reasons it’s easy to include in group tours | Highlights of Ishikawa Mino Washi Paper Goods Workshop (Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd.)
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For travel planners creating packaged tours.
“I want to add a highly satisfying activity in a 30–60 minute window between travel segments.”
In situations like that, we recommend Ishikawa Mino Washi Paper Goods Workshop (Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd.).
Here are key reasons why we’re easy to fit into Mino City sightseeing itineraries (for tour operators, corporate groups, and inbound travel planners)!
1) Large hosting capacity!
[Up to 50 people per session] x 6 sessions = up to [300 people per day].
Outside workshop time, it’s easy to pair with sightseeing in the “Udatsu historic streets” and visits to the “Mino Washi Village Hall.”
2) Choose your required time!
Adjust to your schedule: [30 minutes (follow sample)] / [45–60 minutes (creative course)].
With 15 minutes of changeover prep after each session, we can start the next group smoothly.
3) Finished on the spot → take it home immediately!
No waiting time for drying—your piece is completed during the session.
You can depart for the next destination on schedule.
4) Designed so anyone can join easily
Everyone is welcome (preschool children can join with a guardian).
Unlimited Mino Washi parts—both “follow the sample” and “creative” are popular. A truly one-of-a-kind craft experience.
5) For travel agencies: R10 return available
We offer a return program for travel agencies as a group referral benefit.
6) Strong shopping experience: direct from the manufacturer!
600+ Japanese craft and gift items sold in-store.
Plus, **10% OFF when total shopping is JPY 1,000+ (group benefit)** is also available.
7) Easy access: about 5 minutes from Mino IC
About 5 minutes by car from the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway, Mino Interchange.
About a 5-minute walk from the parking area to the shop—simple logistics.
8) The workshop location is “sightseeing itself”
Our workshop is inside an Edo-period house.
The moment you step in, the special travel feeling begins.
9) A hands-on “Mino Washi” experience that engages all senses
Touch, cut, and paste to create—
a program where you can fully enjoy Japan’s traditional craft industry: Mino Washi.
10) High-rated reviews provide reassurance!
[As of Feb 5, 2026] Google Reviews: 4.9 stars, 1,087 reviews (and counting)
11) Free Wi-Fi available
Convenient for sharing info on-site and posting photos.
If you’re thinking, “This is exactly what we were looking for!”—please contact us anytime.
Our team will warmly welcome you and support your group so everyone can enjoy with confidence.
We look forward to your visit.
▼ Group reservation inquiries (we can also respond outside listed open days)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/contact/shop.html
▼ Workshop website
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/shop.html
▼ Group reservation guide (50 people per session x 6 sessions = 300 per day)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/03/43/343_1_file.pdf
▼ More details about Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd. Workshop are in the second-half blog!
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_2236.html
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- Recommended for group travel activities | Create a one-of-a-kind piece at our Mino Washi craft workshop
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For organizers, planners, and coordinators looking for a workshop destination—school events (elementary / junior high / high school), kids clubs, family trips, PTA parent-child trips, corporate trips, company training programs, sports clubs, senior clubs, NPOs and volunteer groups, cultural experience tours, and more.
“We want to give children an experience they can’t get at school.”
“We want to make fun memories together.”
In those moments, please consider a time where everyone can create, show each other, and laugh together at Ishikawa Mino Washi Paper Goods Workshop (Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd.).
▼ Watch our workshop video and see everyone’s “So fun!” moments ▼
[Approximate workshop time]
Course 1: Follow the kit sample: about 30 minutes
Course 2: Creative arrangement: about 45 to 60 minutes
After the session, we ask for a changeover time (about 15 minutes) to prepare for the next group
Eligible participants: preschool age and above (preschoolers must join with a guardian)
With high flexibility, even those who feel “not crafty” can enjoy with confidence.
Both “follow the sample” and “creative” are welcome.
You’re also welcome to look up craft ideas on your smartphone and customize in your own style.
Some people are surprised, “Is it really okay to be this free?”—but our staff supports the key points carefully.
Finished pieces are completed on the spot and can be taken home immediately.
[Selectable workshop menu (examples, tax included)]
[New workshop experiences planned for 2026]
■ Washi Korokoro “Summer Creatures” JPY 1,210 (tax included) planned
■ Mini Photo Frame Workshop JPY 1,210 (tax included) planned
We are currently working at full speed to create workshop content that customers will truly enjoy—each team member is building it now!
Please look forward to it!
[Washi Korokoro]
Our popular “Washi Korokoro” series offers a rich lineup: animals, lucky charms, zodiac signs, warriors, seasonal events, and more. Choosing is part of the fun.
◆ Make Your Own Zodiac (Washi Korokoro): JPY 1,210 (tax included)
(Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, Boar)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/02/88/288_1_file.jpg
◆ Washi Korokoro Assort: JPY 1,210 (tax included)
Maneki-neko (beckoning cat), ninja, frog, goldfish, kitten, owl, daruma, lion dance, Monchhichi, red oni, kabuto helmet, Kenshi Ichimatsu, Kenshi Uroko, Princess-chan, and more
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/02/87/287_1_file.png
◆ Washi Korokoro Koinobori (Carp Streamer, Blue/Red): JPY 1,320 (tax included)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/02/87/287_1_file.png
◆ Washi Korokoro Warlord Series: JPY 1,320 (tax included)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/02/69/269_1_file.jpg
◆ Washi Korokoro Hina Dolls Workshop: JPY 2,420 (tax included)
◆ Parts kit to transform Washi Korokoro into Hina dolls: JPY 100 (tax included)
With this parts add-on, any kit can transform into a Hina version. :-)
*Image reference: from Feb/Mar/Apr poster
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/03/24/324_1_file.pdf
[Mino Washi Paper Goods Workshop]
◆ Gold washi bookmark: JPY 770 (tax included)
*Image reference: website section below https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/shop.html
◆ Pen holder: JPY 1,100 (tax included)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_903.html
◆ Washi plate: JPY 1,210 (tax included)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_904.html
◆ Washi earrings / washi clip-on earrings: JPY 1,320 (tax included)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_932_0_0.html
◆ Goshuincho (temple stamp book) double-sided collage workshop: JPY 1,848 (tax included)
Currently in production! Announcement coming soon.
◆ [Value Sets]
Family Set A (Korokoro + Washi plate): JPY 2,320 (tax included)
Family Set B (Korokoro + Pen holder): JPY 2,210 (tax included)
Family Set C (Korokoro + Bookmark): JPY 1,880 (tax included)
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/02/90/290_1_file.jpg
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_779.html
Creating together, sharing your work, and laughing “That’s so good!” makes travel memories even richer.
Because you can take your finished piece home right away, the memories continue even after you return.
Whether you are a group or an individual, we will guide you to fit your schedule.
When looking for a workshop destination, please consider Ishikawa Mino Washi Paper Goods Workshop (Ishikawa Paper Goods Ltd.).
We look forward to your reservation and inquiry.
▼ Workshop website
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/shop.html
▼ Contact the workshop
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/contact/shop.html
▼ Group catalog
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/lsc/lsc-upfile/catalog/03/43/343_1_file.pdf
▼ More details are in the second-half blog!
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_2236.html
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- Customer gallery | Even with the same kit, every piece is different! Introducing real creations
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Here are a few workshop creations to share!
Even with the same kit, each person’s individuality shines—that’s the charm of Washi Korokoro.
Please use these as inspiration: “Oh, you can do that!”
[This issue’s featured creation]
Made by the whole family together—and a big pose with the finished pieces!
*Includes a take-home case—great for gifts too!
Please enjoy creating in your own style too!
▼ More details are in the second-half blog!
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/news/detail_2236.html
▼ See everyone’s creations on our Instagram too!
https://www.instagram.com/ishikawashigyoshop2016/
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- Mayumi’s diary | “The power of daily life” learned through a wild game (gibier) experience
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On Feb 1, I joined a gibier event held at Morinos in Mino City.
The instructor was from “Tauta-sha” in Miyama, Kyoto.
This time, it was a deep experience—listening to stories while enjoying raccoon dog (tanuki), raccoon, and deer dishes.
Tauta-sha is a group practicing a “self-sufficient lifestyle,” doing farming, hunting, foraging, and building by themselves, and they also handle lodging, experiences, and gibier sales.
They grow vegetables without chemical fertilizers, process hunted animals for meat, and even self-build structures—from cutting trees onward.
They also use spring water, and I felt how truly they live together with nature.
What impressed me was not only “sustainable,” but also the concept of “regenerative”—restoring nature.
I also strongly related to their desire to pass on the satoyama wisdom cultivated by Japanese people to the next generation.
And the instructor themselves was incredible—carpenter, hunter, chef, farmer, and activity guide.
So many roles that it made me slightly confused (laughs).
But with over 30 years of experience, they answered every question naturally.
That accumulated strength was truly inspiring.
Actually, I also grew up in a similar rural area, so there were things I deeply related to—and some things I once tried and gave up on.
Even so, their commitment and the way they continued with support from others gave me a big boost.
When they asked, “Any questions?” I blurted out, “Rather than asking, I just want to keep listening.”
Hearing from experienced people is fun just to listen to—it was a learning-filled time.
I want to keep building what I can, step by step, in my own way.
It was a day that gave me a positive push forward.
For inquiries about the newsletter, please contact us here:
https://www.ishikawa-shigyo.com/contact/shop.html
This is the end of Part 1.
Continue to Part 2 below—please read on!