Making Shime-nawa, a Japanese custom in Tokyo

This hands-on tour in Tokyo offers a rare chance to craft a traditional Japanese shimenawa—the sacred rope used in Shinto rituals—while learning about its cultural significance. For just over $124, you get to design your own ornament, incorporating vibrant artificial flowers, cranes, and symbolic greenery, all in a cozy cafe setting. It’s a delightful way to connect with Japan’s customs and create a meaningful souvenir.

One of the standout features of this experience is its relaxed, friendly atmosphere—the instructor, Ebihara-san, guides you through each step with patience and plenty of ideas to personalize your piece. Plus, coffee is included, making it feel more like a creative break than a formal class.

That said, a potential consideration is the duration—around two hours in total—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy crafting or cultural activities without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful, hands-on encounter with Japan’s traditions, especially if you’re after a memorable, meaningful souvenir rather than a rushed tour.

Ideal for cultural enthusiasts, craft lovers, or anyone looking for a unique, relaxing activity in Tokyo, this experience combines tradition, creativity, and a touch of Japanese spirituality.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Learn and create a traditional Japanese shimenawa, a sacred ornament used in rituals.
• Personalized Artwork: You will design your own ornament, choosing flowers and cranes, making it a memorable keepsake.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Hosted at a cozy cafe near public transportation, led by an experienced craftswoman.
• Includes Coffee & Materials: All tools and materials are provided, with a drink included.
• Family-Friendly: Easy enough for children and beginners, making it suitable for all ages.
• Good Value: At $124.34, it offers a meaningful cultural activity with a tangible souvenir to take home.

A Closer Look at the Experience

What to Expect

This tour is designed to be both interactive and accessible, lasting approximately two hours. You’ll start by twisting mizuhiki—decorative cords—around a 16cm diameter shimenawa rope made of fragrant rush grass, which already hints at the authentic touch of the experience. The instructor will guide you through the process, but the emphasis is on personal creativity. You’ll be encouraged to avoid sticking rigidly to a sample, allowing your unique style to shine through.

Next, you’ll add flower points using high-quality artificial flowers like dahlias and mums, arranged around the rope for visual balance. The instructor will show you how to create movement by attaching pine trees and bamboo branches, which symbolize longevity and resilience in Japanese tradition. The final step involves attaching paper cranes, representing good luck and peace—an especially meaningful element that travelers love. Everything is affixed using a hot glue gun, making assembly simple and safe, even for children.

Throughout the session, there’s plenty of advice and encouragement from Ebihara-san, ensuring you leave confident in your creation. After roughly 90 minutes of actual making, there’s a brief 10-minute window for adjustments and final touches.

The Venue

Located just a two-minute walk from JR Keihin Tohoku Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line stations, the cozy café hosts this activity in a relaxed setting. The small group size—limited to eight travelers—ensures personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere. The environment feels welcoming, with a casual vibe that helps you focus on the craft rather than feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

What Makes It Special?

One of the biggest draws is the combination of cultural authenticity and creative fun. As Hiroko_T shares in her review, the workshop is “lovely” and “relaxed,” perfect for those who want a break from sightseeing and instead want to craft something meaningful. She appreciated the instructor’s skill and the ideas she provided for arrangement, making the process approachable even for beginners.

A notable highlight is how accessible the activity is—”even children can make it,” as the description states—and this is echoed in reviews praising the ease of the craft. The visual appeal of the finished piece, with brightly colored flowers and delicately placed cranes, makes it a wonderful keepsake or gift.

The Cost and Value

At approximately $124.34 per person, this experience offers good value for a cultural activity. All materials and tools are included, plus a drink, which adds to the comfort of the experience. Considering that you get to take home a handcrafted, personalized decoration and learn a traditional Japanese art, it’s a worthwhile investment.

It’s important to note that this experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so it’s best to plan ahead.

Authenticity & Learning

While the activity is primarily creative, it also offers a glimpse into Japan’s deep-rooted customs—the significance of shimenawa and the symbolism behind each element. The instructor’s guidance makes it easy to understand the cultural context, making the craft more meaningful than just a fun activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals most to travelers seeking interactive cultural experiences rather than passive sightseeing. It suits those interested in Japanese traditions, crafts, or spiritual symbols, as well as families or groups wanting a shared, relaxed activity. It’s ideal for visitors who appreciate personalized souvenirs that carry cultural significance, rather than generic gifts bought from shops.

If you’re traveling with kids or prefer activities that are easy to follow, this experience wins points for being accessible and fun. And for anyone wanting to step away from the hustle to create something with a personal touch, this workshop makes a perfect afternoon escape.

The Sum Up

This shimenawa-making experience offers a genuinely engaging way to connect with Japan’s traditional customs in a comfortable, friendly setting. The instructor’s expertise, combined with the relaxed environment and the chance to craft a personal piece of art, makes this tour stand out from more generic souvenirs.

Whether you’re a craft enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a memorable activity in Tokyo, this workshop provides a balanced mix of learning, creativity, and relaxation. The inclusion of high-quality materials and the opportunity to make something uniquely yours makes the price well justified.

For travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and want a meaningful souvenir, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable for those who value local traditions and prefer experiences that are both fun and culturally enriching.

FAQ

How long is the workshop?
The activity takes about 2 hours, including the actual crafting and some time for adjustments.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, the instructions are simple enough for children, and the activity is designed to be accessible to all ages.

Where does the experience take place?
It starts at a cozy cafe just a 2-minute walk from the JR Keihin Tohoku Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line stations in Tokyo.

What is included in the price?
All tools and materials needed for the craft are provided, along with one coffee (limited to drinks under 600 yen).

Can I customize my shimenawa?
Absolutely. You are encouraged to design your own arrangement without sticking to a sample, making your finished piece unique.

What is the size of the finished shimenawa?
The ornament is approximately 16 cm in diameter and 2.5 cm thick, suitable for hanging or display.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, the experience offers group discounts, making it a fun activity for friends or family groups.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 8 days ahead to secure their spot.

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Since it takes place indoors at a cafe, weather conditions do not affect the activity.

What if I need to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

All in all, this shimenawa-making tour in Tokyo provides a charming, hands-on way to engage with Japan’s cultural roots while creating a personalized keepsake. Perfect for those craving a meaningful, stress-free activity that combines tradition with creativity.