This is a historic homespun workshop established in 1919. Today, it is run by the third-generation dyeing craftsman Mr. Hiroyuki and the fourth-generation spinning and weaving craftsman Mr. Kazumasa. They are dedicated to creating various products. You will have the opportunity to witness the craftsmanship of homespun, where everything is handmade, in this workshop, where you normally don’t have an opportunity to enter.

They take pride in homemade, additive-free regional dishes, primarily focusing on handmade 100% buckwheat soba. The cuisine features an abundance of mountain blessings, including the renowned ‘Nishi Warabi’, brand of bracken fern, wild mushrooms, and other mountain delicacies. This region, with its cool and snowy climate, is also known for its soba production. The 100% buckwheat soba at “Kachan no mise Wagaya” run by local women, is especially popular nationwide, attracting visitors from afar.

* Please note that the lunch location may change depending on closures or other factors.
* The types of ingredients may vary by season.

Mr. Nishizaki, originally from Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, worked at large ranches in Hokkaido before returning to Iwate in 2020. He aimed to become “Japan’s best shepherd” and established this ranch in 2021. The sheep he raises here are crossbreeds of Suffolk, which is known for having the highest breeding number in Japan, breeds like Manx Loaghtan and Jacob, both of which are meat breeds but also have wool that can be utilized. In the future, he might become a key figure in supporting “Iwate’s sheep culture,” including homespun.

You will experience a time and space reminiscent of the "original landscape of home spinning" while learning.First, you'll choose your favorite color of wool. Then, you'll engage in the process of "carding," where you'll tease and align the fibers for ease of spinning while also blending colors. Next, you'll use a spinning device to create the yarn.
The yarn you spin will be used to make a scarf, which will be delivered to your home at a later date. Stay tuned!

* Please note that there will be additional charges for international shipping.

Minpaku halcoya is a place with a spacious garden and a wooden deck, providing a location where you can truly experience the rich nature and local life with the magnificent Mount Iwate in front and expansive rice fields and vegetable gardens around.

You can enjoy your stay here as if you were living here, by savoring dishes prepared by a personal chef, engaging in physical activities in the ample garden, and even trying your hand at spinning yarn. The dinner prepared by the personal chef features a “Taste of Iwate” menu, with the majority of ingredients and seasonings sourced locally.