DENOTO Forest to Frame Journey

In the historic post town of Kamijoge, Hiroshima Prefecture, nestled in the mountains and harmonizing with the beautiful nature of the Seto Inland Sea, a culture of calligraphy and craftsmanship has thrived for centuries. Since its establishment in 1983, DENTO has continued the tradition of frame making, using locally sourced wood and meticulous handcrafting techniques. Each frame, carefully shaped by observing the grain and warp of the wood, is a testament to precision woodworking. The 45-degree mitered corners of the frames showcase the craftsmen's elaborate skills.

This tour invites you to experience the allure of DENTO's craftsmanship over two days. The first day takes you to the "School of Forest" in Nishiawakura Village, Okayama Prefecture, where you'll observe over a century's worth of forest management and logging practices, as well as initiatives in the sixth-sector industrialization of forestry. The second day brings you to the DENTO factory in Kamijoge, Hiroshima, where you'll participate in a workshop using the timber processed there to create frames and tea ceremony utensils. Here, you can directly feel the passion and heritage of DENTO's artisans in their craft.

Additionally, explore the nostalgic streets of Kamijoge, lined with white walls, namako walls, and lattice doors, and enjoy a lunch at "Prashanti," a curry restaurant utilizing local ingredients. This journey through the streets of Kamijoge offers a deep dive into the world of DENTO, where tradition meets innovation.

This tour presents a unique experience blending Japan's rich cultural heritage with contemporary craftsmanship. Join us on this journey to connect with the techniques and culture of DENTO.