Kishu Lacquerware Festival: Shopping and Access Guide

Updated November 3, 2026

Looking for bowls, trays or a stacked food box you can choose in person? The 38th Kishu Lacquerware Festival (第38回紀州漆器まつり) brings local wholesalers and manufacturers together in Kainan, Wakayama, on November 7–8, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The main venue moves to Kainan Hareame this time. Alongside the lacquerware market, there will be food stalls, while Uruwashi-kan hosts a sale and decorative lacquerwork activities. Free shuttle buses connect JR Kainan Station with the lacquerware and household goods festivals.

Dates and venues

The main market is in front of the lawn area at Kainan Hareame (海南ハレアメ). Uruwashi-kan (うるわし館) is a separate venue with its own program, so check the address for the activities you want to attend.

Use the organizer’s festival page for the latest visitor information. Official venue details are available for Kainan Hareame and Uruwashi-kan.

What to browse and eat

Kishu lacquerware has been passed down in and around Kainan’s Kuroe district. The festival began in 1989 to introduce the area’s craft to a wider audience; this is its 38th edition.

The main attraction is the large lacquerware market, where local wholesalers and manufacturers sell bowls, trays, chopsticks, tiered food boxes and other tableware. It is a chance to compare pieces in person, whether you are looking for something for everyday meals or a gift.

Food is part of the visit, too. The Kainan food service association (海南飲食業組合) runs the Umaimono Yokocho food area (うまいもの横丁), with additional stalls operated by participating groups.

The Household Goods Festival (家庭用品まつり) takes place on the same dates. The move to Kainan Hareame is intended to make visiting the two festivals more convenient.

Activities at Uruwashi-kan

Uruwashi-kan offers another reason to make the trip, particularly if you want to try decorative lacquerwork as well as browse the stalls.

Shuttle buses and parking

Arriving by train

Free shuttle buses serve JR Kainan Station, the Kishu Lacquerware Festival and the Household Goods Festival. Check the official transport information before planning your arrival.

Arriving by car

• Main venue: temporary parking for approximately 600 vehicles is about 150 metres away on foot. A free shuttle also runs from the temporary parking area to the Household Goods Festival.
• Uruwashi-kan: temporary parking for approximately 40 vehicles is about a one-minute walk from the venue.

If you are building a longer trip around the festival, our guides to Yuchelin three-star hot springs and Michelin Key onsen stays in Japan offer ideas for a separate overnight stop. For another practical travel topic, see our guide to ChargeSPOT rentals through d VALUE PASS.

Frequently asked questions

When is the festival?

It takes place on November 7–8, 2026.

What are the opening hours?

Wakayama Prefecture’s announcement lists 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

Where is the main venue?

The main venue is in front of the lawn area at Kainan Hareame, at 995-2 Ononaka, Kainan, Wakayama.

What can I buy?

Local wholesalers and manufacturers sell lacquerware including bowls, trays, chopsticks and tiered food boxes.

Is there a free shuttle from the station?

Yes. Free shuttle buses serve JR Kainan Station and the lacquerware and household goods festivals.

What happens at Uruwashi-kan?

Uruwashi-kan hosts a special sale and a maki-e decorative lacquerwork experience on November 7–8, plus a Mini 4WD tournament on November 8.

Where is Uruwashi-kan?

Uruwashi-kan is at 222 Funoo, Kainan, Wakayama, separate from the main venue.

Will there be food stalls?

Yes. The program includes the Umaimono Yokocho food area and stalls run by participating groups.

Source: Wakayama Prefecture’s festival announcement, published September 11, 2026.