Yaoyoroz Honpo

Yaoyoroz Honpo stands as a carefully preserved cultural hub in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, housed within a renovated machiya townhouse from the Meiji period (1868-1912). The establishment was conceived as a "place where people, things, and things from the Yaoyorozu region gather", serving as both a showcase for traditional crafts and a meeting point for visitors exploring Kanazawa's cultural heritage.

The venue serves as a specialty boutique dedicated to preserving and promoting the region's artistic traditions while adapting them for contemporary life. The shop offers a wide variety of products from Hokuriku-based creators, all of which are stylishly designed to fit in with modern lifestyles while retaining their traditions. Notable among these is the KUTANI SEAL brand, which represents the modern evolution of Kutaniyaki porcelain, a traditional craft with over 360 years of history in Ishikawa Prefecture.

Visitors can experience hands-on workshops focusing on Kutaniyaki pottery, where they learn about this distinctive porcelain known for its vivid colors and elegant designs. The driving force of this Kutaniyaki New Wave is the "KUTANI SEAL" brand. With its brightly colored and cute designs, it appeals to both a Japanese love of tradition and the aesthetics of current times. The workshop experience allows participants to create their own pieces using traditional techniques adapted with modern sticker applications.

The building features multiple levels of attractions. There is also a self-serve café where you can stop by for a break from strolling around the area, while Stock, a store specializing in preserved foods, also opened on the first floor. The second floor houses additional exhibition and workshop spaces where visitors can observe artisans at work and participate in craft-making sessions.

The location showcases Hyakuman-san, Ishikawa Prefecture's official mascot, a mustachioed character inspired by traditional okiagari dolls that cannot be knocked over. There is a wonderful sculpture of the character at the souvenir shop Yaoyoroz Honpo, making it a notable photo opportunity for visitors.

Yaoyoroz Honpo is located at Owarichou 2-14-20 in Kanazawa city center, easily accessible by foot from major tourist districts including the nearby traditional tea houses and historic preservation areas. The venue is within walking distance of other cultural attractions in Kanazawa's historic core. Entry to the shop and café areas is free, though workshop experiences and craft-making sessions require separate fees. The preserved foods store operates independently with its own pricing structure.