Shirakawa-go Gasshozukuri Minkaen
Outdoor Museum Straw Craft Workshop

Learn to Make Ashinaka and
Traditional Folk Tools Rooted
in Shirakawa-Go Daily Life

At Minkaen, you can experience the scenery and ancient traditions of a mountain village, and it was here I tried my hand at straw footwear called ashinaka. In the past, straw was a precious resource used to repair thatch roofs or for livestock bedding. For economic reasons, ashinaka with slightly extended heels were often made and used during the winter fallow season.

Our instructor, Mizukami-sensei, grew up in Shirakawa village and naturally learned the craft from his parents. First, he demonstrated a delicate process called suguru where dried straw is carefully combed by hand to remove impurities. Next, the straw is pounded with a wooden mallet to both soften and strengthen it.

Once preparations were complete, we finally began to weave the straw over and under in alternating layers. As I continued, the sound of the crackling fire in the hearth added to the atmosphere. I could almost picture villagers from centuries past spending their days in the same way. After weaving about 9 cm, my ashinaka were complete! They felt a little big, but Mizukami-sensei said it gave them character. I’m very proud of my cozy, one-of-a-kind sandals. It was an unforgettable opportunity to experience everyday life in Shirakawa-go.