Feel with your heart as you move your fingers. Experience handicrafts and learn about the Ainu patterns passed down through generations.
Ainu patterns can be found on everyday items and clothing. These patterns have continued to captivate people, and are often used in modern design work and handicrafts. In this activity, you can make your own eraser stamp of an Ainu pattern together with woodcarver Minoru Okada. After learning how to use the tools, you will carve out an Ainu pattern on a rubber eraser. After completing your stamp, you can press it onto paper to create your very own card. Frame it as a memento of your journey with the Ainu.
Experience Ainu culture through their patterns
You will choose from one of several Ainu patterns provided by the instructor, then carve it out on an eraser. Ainu patterns take inspiration from the natural world, and feature gentle spirals and swirls. They symbolize mountains, rivers, plants, and animals, each with its own unique legend. By learning what each pattern represents and the ideas behind it, you can get a deeper connection with Ainu culture.
Learn from a woodcarver living in Lake Akan
The instructor for this program is a woodcarver active in the local Ainu community. He will teach you how to use the carving tools properly, as well as the meanings behind the Ainu patterns and their related culture and history. As you see your work of art take shape, you will feel the joy of craftsmanship and the inherent beauty of the Ainu patterns. You can also learn about the instructor’s own personal experiences and creative process for woodcarving. It will give you insights into the inheritance of Ainu patterns, and let you experience the woodcarving culture in Lake Akan.
A memorable activity with friends and family
Eraser stamp carving can be quite fun even for beginners. The instructor will provide careful guidance on using the tools, making it safe for children as well. Whether you’re having fun with family and friends, or becoming fully absorbed in the activity, it will offer you a glimpse into Ainu craftsmanship. Once your stamp is complete, dab it on your chosen ink then press it onto paper to create an original card. You can even write your signature for a personal touch. Take the stamp home with you and use it in notebooks or diaries to serve as a memory of your journey into Ainu crafts.
- All photos are for illustration purposes only.
Information
| Tour name | tour4C: Craft Time (Eraser Stamp Making) – Experience Ainu culture through their patterns |
| Itinerary | ① Meetup at Lake Akan Ainu Theater Ikor ② Eraser Stamp Making ③ Finish at Lake Akan Ainu Theater Ikor |
| Available period | All year round |
| Start time | ① 10:30～ ② 13:30～ |
| Duration | About 1 hours |
| Meetup location | Lake Akan Ainu Theater Ikor ※See map below for detailed location. |
| Fee | (Adult/Child) ¥7,000 per person (tax incl.) ※Credit cards not accepted. |
| Age limit | 7 years old and up. Children below 7 years may not join. Children aged 7 to 10 years must be accompanied by an adult (16 years old and up). If you are aged 11 to 15 years and joining by yourself, please inquire in advance. |
| Participants | Minimum 2, maximum 10 |
| Included in fee | Guide fee, activity fee, Eraser Stamp Making kit, tax |
| Not included in fee | Transportation costs to the venue |
| Reservation deadline | At least 10 days in advance (May be available to book even after the 10-day advance deadline. Please inquire for details.) |
| Required items to bring | None |
| Convenient items to bring | None |
| Payment method | Please pay by cash at the Lake Akan Ainu Theater Ikor counter before the start of the tour. |
| Notes | ■Please be at the meetup location at least 15 minutes before the start time. ■The tour may be changed or cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control. ■This tour is conducted only in Japanese, but non-Japanese speakers can also join. ■Since the tour involves the use of sharp objects, children below the age limit may not join. |
| Cancelation Rules |