Rediscovering Japanese Culture in Miyagi

As part of a corporate training and team-building program,

we planned four cultural experience activities in Miyagi Prefecture.

Both domestic and international members took part in these workshops—

and we also joined the experience ourselves! Here’s a look at what we did.

①Sendai Washi Paper Art Experience

The Sendai Tanabata Festival, one of the three major festivals in the Tohoku region,

features dazzling streamers made from specially selected washi paper.

This paper is crafted using techniques passed down since the Heian period,

making it resistant to fading and durable even in wind and rain.

Surprisingly, this beautiful washi used to be discarded after the festival.

Today, the Sendai Tanabata Washi Project gives new life to it

through creative art workshops that preserve and pass on cultural heritage.

We had the opportunity to take part in one of their workshops!

We didn’t just cut along the patterns on the washi paper—

we also tried monkiri, a traditional paper-cutting craft from the Edo period.

By folding paper, placing a stencil on top,

and carefully cutting with scissors or a craft knife,

we created beautiful crests and traditional patterns.

Each design has its own meaning,

so we chose our patterns based on both their symbolism and difficulty level.

We then applied the cut washi to paper umbrellas, lanterns, and fans,

adding our own touches with pens to create one-of-a-kind pieces!

At the end of the workshop, everyone shared their creations in a group presentation. Each person explained their design's theme and creative points.

It was a fun and engaging way to learn—

and also offered a chance to reflect on sustainability and the SDGs.

②Zunda (Edamame) Mochi Making Experience

We joined a workshop to make Zunda Mochi, a famous sweet from Miyagi.

We learned that after removing the beans from their pods,

each one is carefully peeled by hand—

because even a thin skin can completely change the texture.

The beans are placed in a large mortar and mashed with a wooden pestle.

It’s surprisingly hard work—standing and applying pressure while grinding!

This method is said to originate from an anecdote about Lord Date Masamune, who once crushed edamame using the hilt of his sword.

Once the paste becomes smooth, sugar and salt are added to adjust the flavor.

Then, freshly pounded mochi is coated with the edamame paste—

and it’s ready to enjoy!

We had a delicious time tasting our creations.

During the workshop,

the international members were thrilled to experience traditional mochi pounding using a wooden mallet and mortar!

③Kokeshi Dolls Painting Experience

Kokeshi dolls, often seen quietly standing in rural homes,

are a traditional craft from the Tohoku region.

Each area has its own unique styles, shapes, and colors.

Perhaps because of this variety, Kokeshi dolls have gained popularity overseas,

where passionate collectors are building their own Kokeshi collections!

We took part in a Kokeshi doll painting experience at Kokeshi no Shimanuki in Sendai.

We were free to design the dolls however we liked,

but this time we followed a sample and used oil-based markers for painting.

Many Kokeshi dolls have symmetrical designs, but because of their curved surfaces, painting them neatly was trickier than expected!

We managed to finish our dolls—phew!

Later, we found out that the design we painted was actually a Yamagata-style Kokeshi, not from Miyagi!

④Sasa Kamaboko (Bamboo Leaf–Shaped Fish Cake) Grilling Experience

We participated in a hands-on Sasa Kamaboko grilling workshop at Takeda no Sasakamaboko in Shiogama, located about 50 minutes by bus from Sendai.

After a guided tour of the factory, we grilled our own Sasa Kamaboko using a gas oven.

The fish cakes are made with top-grade Alaska pollock and Urakasumi,

a locally brewed sake.

As they grill, the kamaboko gently puff up — a satisfying sight!

On sunny days, you can enjoy freshly grilled, fluffy Sasa Kamaboko

while taking in the scenic view of Shiogama Port from the outdoor terrace.

This fresh and creative experience provided a valuable opportunity for

both international and Japanese team members to bond and strengthen communication in a way that everyday work rarely allows.

After the cultural experience, participants enjoyed local Sendai gourmet

in their respective groups.

Sharing regional delicacies sparked lively conversations within each team.

As for us — we savored thick-cut Sendai beef tongue that was just like a juicy steak!

At Advantage Inc., we specialize in planning and organizing communication events and team-building programs.

Let’s create memorable events that not only introduce the beauty of Japanese culture but also bring your team closer together — wherever they’re from.

Feel free to reach out for customized plans!