A visit to the Nara Craft Museum (Nara Kogeikan) presents an introduction to the art and crafts scene of Nara. Exhibits showcase the styles and history of arts that date back to the 8th-century Nara Period. During this time Nara served as Japan’s capital city and was a hub for national culture. Browse the displays at the museum, watch artists at work and shop for souvenirs.
The one-time easternmost trade center on the Silk Road, Nara often learned about new concepts before other places in the country. Many craftsmen introduced their ideas upon arriving from China’s Tang Empire or Korea’s Baekje Dynasty. The rise of Buddhism also brought innovative changes to the region’s art designs. Experience this at the museum’s two-floor exhibition, which includes some accompanying information in English.
Study examples of calligraphy and calligraphy brushes. Nara sumi ink sticks originated in Nara during the Muromachi period. The city is now responsible for nearly all of Japan’s ink production. Admire colorful woven hemp cloths called narazarashi. In the 700s the cloths were the material of choice for monks’ robes and armor lining.
Other interesting items on display relate to Japan’s tea-drinking traditions. See Akahada pottery, made from iron-rich clay and painted with patterns native to Nara. Don’t miss the collection of tea whisks, intricately created by hand from bamboo. Artists and craftspeople often visit the museum to host demonstrations of their work.
Complete your visit at the museum shop, which stocks original pieces produced by some of the city’s well-known and emerging artists. Budding artisans can sign up for workshops, which are given in Japanese.
Nara Craft Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and has free admission. Find the museum in Nara’s old merchant neighborhood of Naramachi. Walk here in less than 10 minutes from Kintetsu-Nara station or 15 minutes from the Nara or Kyōbate station. Nearby attractions include the ancient Gango-ji Temple and Naramachi Museum.
