Tsukiyono Vidro Park is a glass-themed park in Minakami Town, Gunma Prefecture. The complex brings together a glass factory, the Glass Art Museum, a glass workshop, a glassware shop, and a local craft beer restaurant, offering visitors many different ways to experience the beauty and craftsmanship of glass.
Visitors can watch skilled artisans at work, create their own original glass pieces, and admire artworks while discovering the glassmaking techniques developed over a long history. With shopping and dining facilities also available, the park is an enjoyable destination for visitors of all ages, from children to adults.
At Tsukiyono Vidro Park, visitors can observe the skills and creativity of glass artisans at close range. The park is home to one of Japan’s largest handmade glass factories. Since its founding in 1905, the factory has trained and produced many highly skilled craftsmen and has created blown-glass works using techniques regarded as among the finest in Japan.
Inside the factory, visitors can watch as intensely heated glass is gradually shaped by skilled artisans and transformed into finished works of art. The combination of the powerful heat of the workshop and the delicate techniques of experienced craftsmen provides a fascinating glimpse into the actual glassmaking process.
The Glass Art Museum presents a diverse collection of glassworks while tracing the history of glass craftsmanship from ancient times to the modern era.
The collection includes Roman glass dating back more than 2,000 years, sand-core glass, works from the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods, and glass pieces designed by Pablo Picasso. Visitors can also admire contemporary glass artworks created by renowned artists from Japan and around the world.
With glass changing its colors and appearance as it catches the light, the museum offers an opportunity to appreciate the unique beauty of glass together with its fascinating history.
At the Glassmaking Workshop, visitors can get hands-on experience creating their own glass artworks. A variety of programs are available for both adults and children, allowing visitors to make an original piece to take home as a memorable souvenir of their trip.
The workshop offers activities including glassblowing, stained glass, sandblasting, and music box making.
Glassblowing experiences are also available on weekends. With guidance from a skilled artisan, participants blow into intensely heated glass and shape it into their desired form. Being able to watch and participate as a piece of glass gradually takes shape makes this a special hands-on experience in traditional craftsmanship.
The World Glass Shop offers a wide selection of original handmade glass products based on the theme of “Play, Japanese Style, and Enjoyment.” Visitors can browse a variety of glass items, including tableware and interior decorations, and choose something that suits their taste.
Because each piece is individually crafted by an artisan, these glass products make distinctive travel souvenirs as well as thoughtful gifts for family and friends.
The park also sells local craft beer, Japanese sake, and original wines. It is a convenient place to look for souvenirs and gifts, and visitors can enjoy choosing a glass or sake cup made at the factory to pair with their favorite local beverage.
At the local craft beer restaurant “Dobriden”, visitors can enjoy original dishes together with craft beer produced in Minakami.
The beer is served in original glasses handmade by skilled artisans, allowing guests to experience both glass craftsmanship and local beer at the same time. While enjoying a leisurely meal, visitors can also appreciate the distinctive glassware that makes the restaurant unique to Tsukiyono Vidro Park.
The Crystal Specialty Products Pavilion offers a wide selection of souvenirs perfect for remembering a trip to Minakami. Along with original sweets, the shop carries local specialties, craft beer, and a variety of other products associated with the Minakami area.
In addition to glassware, visitors can choose local foods and regional specialties, making this a convenient and enjoyable place to shop for souvenirs before finishing a sightseeing trip.
At Tsukiyono Vidro Park, visitors can experience the passion and traditional craftsmanship that have gone into glassmaking for more than a century.
Watch artisans at work, admire beautiful glass artworks, create your own piece, choose glassware and local souvenirs, and finally enjoy craft beer and a meal. The park’s greatest appeal is the way all these experiences come together in one destination.
When visiting Minakami, take the opportunity not only to appreciate the beauty of glass but also to discover the traditional techniques, dedication, and creativity that artisans have passed down through generations.