Yukiko-san was so incredibly sweet and kind! Youre supposed to have reservation if you want to paint a top, but i didnt know, because they need to prepare the wooden tops to paint. She was still so accommodating and i was able to paint. She was so much fun and very passionate about the creativity and techniques for painting tops specifically it was amazing to learn so much from her. She showcased many different tops and how its design came to life when it spun. She also teaches you the sasebo way of launching the top and how to play with it. Her shops been in Sasebo started by her grandfather over 100 years ago. The top i painted came with an info sheet with more information on history and instructions.
She even took a bunch of pictures for me and was so kind and fun to talk to despite my limited Japanese. She reccomended local restaurants and was just so helpful. I would highly recommend anyone visiting Sasebo to come here!
Note: Wood Top Prep - ~10mins Painting - ~Depends on you. I took about 40mins Lacquer - ~40mins
So about an hour and a half. But if you have a big group would reccomend to make a reservation and also budget more time.
Also they can make custom stamps but it does have about a week cycle...
Read moreWe went for the painting experience and fell in love with the workers here. It’s a family shop that has been passed down through the generations. All the signage and designs come from family members. I think that’s what makes this shop so wonderful.
If you’re going to purchase a premade top or paint your own, I recommend this shop to everyone. These are the best spin tops in all of Sasebo. From craving the wood, to designing and finishing, it’s all done in house.
The mother walks you through every step of the painting and teaches you how to use...
Read moreSasebo Koma, also known as "Sasebo Spinning Top", is a traditional craft and game that is still played today. At the Sasebo Koma Honpo store, you can purchase both traditional and modern designs made by the owner, or design and paint your own spinning top. In addition, learn how to master the throwing technique from Yukiko san, and compete with friends and family to see who can spin the spinning top for the longest. Highly recommend...
Read more