When looking for the ultimate souvenir from Fukushima Prefecture, nothing glows with local tradition quite like Aizu painted candles (Aizu Erōsoku, 会津絵ろうそく). Boasting over 500 years of history, these exquisite, eco-friendly candles are crafted from natural plant wax and beautifully adorned with hand-painted chrysanthemums, peonies, or wisteria. If you want to experience the absolute finest of this craft, a visit to the historic Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop (ほしばん絵ろうそく店) in Aizu-Wakamatsu is an absolute must. As a premier destination for both shopping and culture, this iconic shop lets you admire masterfully crafted pieces, learn about its imperial history, and even try your hand at painting your own candle to create an unforgettable keepsake from your travels in Japan.
Japanese Traditional Decorated Candles and Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop
Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop was opened in 1772. In the Edo period, the owner made candles for the feudal lords of the Aizu Domain. The skills have been passed down through generations, and the owner is now in the ninth generation. If you are lucky, you might witness the craftsmen showing off their skills (you might need to make a purchase to see, though)!
The traditional candles are made from vegetable wax, Japanese washi paper, and dried grass for the core. Thus, your health won’t be adversely affected by using the candle while you enjoy the atmosphere it creates with its soft light.
The decorated candles were substitutes for flowers offered to the Buddhist altar in winter in Japan’s Tōhoku and Chūbu regions, where the landscape is covered by snow. Thus, the images hand-painted on the candles are usually flowers, such as peonies and chrysanthemums.
Nowadays, the candles in the shop are painted with more festive flowers, such as sunflowers and lilies, so that they can be used for other celebrations, like weddings and birthdays.
Decorated Candle Workshop at Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop
Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop has a workshop space dedicated to visitors for candle painting. You will have two candles by the end of the workshop. One is the final product from the shop, and the other is for you to paint.
If you are interested in making your own decorated candles, make a reservation by calling +81-242-27-1873. Note that the staff are not proficient in English. If you don’t speak Japanese, ask the reception staff at your hotel to make the booking for you.
On the day, you can rely on one of the Translation Apps to communicate.
- A booking made a day in advance is required for reservations for up to five people.
- Two days’ notice is required to reserve for 6 or more people.
- The workshop can be held from 9 am to 3:30 pm.
- The cost is 2,200 yen per person.
- The time required is 40 to 60 minutes.
Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop’s Business Hours and Access Information
- Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop is open from 9 am to 7 pm.
- It closes early at 6 pm from January to March.
- The shop closes from December 31 to January 3.
- Fukunishi Honten is a 2-minute walk from Nanukamachi Station (七日町駅).
Other Must-Visit Spots on Nanukamachi-dōri Street
Once you have finished painting your keepsake at the artisan’s bench, you will likely want to discover more of Aizu-Wakamatsu’s timeless artisan culture. Step outside Hoshiban’s doors and you will find yourself on a historic thoroughfare lined with centuries-old family businesses specializing in everything from traditional cotton weaving to exquisite lacquerware.
To turn your candle workshop into a full-day adventure, explore our Comprehensive Guide to the Must-Visit Spots on Nanukamachi-dori and plan your perfect walking itinerary.
Discover the Stunning Scenery Along the Tadami Line
Designing your own keepsake at Hoshiban is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon, but your journey through the region shouldn’t end there. The historic city of Aizu-Wakamatsu is also the starting point for one of Japan’s most bucket-list-worthy travel experiences.
Just a short trip from the candle shop, you can board a train that winds deep through breathtaking river valleys, misty mountain gorges, and fairytale forests. Before you pack your bags, check out our complete guide to riding the Tadami Line, the Most Picturesque JR Local Train Line, to plan your transit and find the best photo spots.
