Samabike Asuka is a traditional craft experience facility located in Asuka Village, Takaichi County, Nara Prefecture, where the technique of making Sue ware (Japan's oldest glazed ceramic ware), which began in the Asuka period, is handed down. Located near the remains of a burial mound, the facility attracts about 5,000 visitors a year to experience the crafts, serving as a link between ancient techniques and modern life.
Detailed process of Sue ware making experience
During the three-hour workshop, participants will experience a series of processes from making the base to molding, glazing, and decorating. The clay used for the base of Sue ware is a specialty of the Asuka region, and craftspeople provide one-on-one instruction on "how to spread the clay evenly with the palm of the hand" and "techniques for shaping. After molding, a unique glaze is applied and the piece is fired in a kiln at approximately 1,200 degrees Celsius, which takes approximately one month to complete. The completed pieces can be used as tea bowls, flower vases, figurines, etc. Many participants commented that they feel very attached to the vessels they made and use every day.
Features of Washi paper making and herb dyeing
The washi-making experience is based on the concept of "enjoying the texture of handmade washi" by making paper using the tough bark of locally harvested kozo (paper mulberry). The finished washi can be used for letter paper, wrapping paper, wall decorations, etc. In the herb dyeing process, visitors are offered the opportunity to create patterns on fabrics using plant dyes (Akane, Indigo, and Obaku) collected from nature in the mountains, forests, and rivers. The type of dye changes with the seasons, and visitors can enjoy the colors of nature, such as pale pink using cherry blossoms in spring, and the color of autumn leaves using maple leaves in fall.
Contents of Asuka Historic Site Cooperation Tour
After the experience, a guided tour of nearby Asukadera Temple site, Nakaoyama Kofun Tumulus, and other historical sites is offered. An archaeologist from the Asuka period accompanies the tour, explaining "how Sue ware was useful in the lives of ancient people" and "trade routes of the time. In particular, since Sue ware artifacts have been excavated at the Nakaoyama Kofun Tumulus, many visitors have commented that they felt connected to history by seeing artifacts from the same period as the vessels they made themselves.