Akabeko Manufacturing Place Bansho

Akabeko Manufacturing Sho Bansho is a workshop that produces Akabeko, a papier-mache cow doll made in the Aizu region of Fukushima Prefecture. Akabeko is said to have originated during the Azuchi-Momoyama period, when the lord, Ujisato Gamo, implemented a policy to promote industry and called in craftsmen to make toys and dolls for his samurai. There are various theories about the origin of Akabeko, but it is said to have been inspired by the legend of a red cow that played a role in the reconstruction of Enzo-ji Temple, which was destroyed by a major earthquake. Red is believed to have a protective effect, and it has been a custom among lower-ranking samurai in Aizu to give Akabeko as a charm to protect children from disasters and wish for their healthy growth.

At Akabeko Manufacturing Place Bantakumi, you can have a handmade experience. By pasting washi paper onto a wooden mold, cutting it out, covering the back, applying a base coat, dyeing, and painting, you can create your own original Akabeko. The experience fee is 1,500 yen for adults and 1,000 yen for children. The handmade Akabeko can be a great memory of your trip and may also become something you cherish because you made it yourself.

Bansho, a place for making Akabeko, is located in front of Kitakata Station, making it easily accessible. Skilled craftsmen make Akabeko by hand in the workshop. In addition, there is also a space for displaying and selling Akabeko in the workshop. The area around Kitakata Station has many souvenir shops selling local sake and Kitakata ramen, making it a popular spot for tourists.

Bansho, a manufacturer of Akabeko, is one of the tourist spots in the Aizu region. You can visit the workshop to see the process of making Akabeko and even experience making it yourself. In addition, there are many other tourist spots in the area, such as Tsurugajo Castle and Jumonjaya. You can enjoy your entire day learning about the history and culture of the Aizu region.

At the Akabeko Manufacturing Center, in addition to red cowpea goods, souvenirs and local specialties from the Aizu region are also sold. They also sell merchandise featuring the PR character "Akabee," which is a friendly presence for tourists. There is also a restaurant in the workshop where you can enjoy local flavors such as Kitakata ramen and sauce cutlet bowls. It's also recommended as a souvenir to buy during your trip.