Step into the Heian Era at【Itsukinomiya Historical Experience Museum】

Feel the Lifestyle of Heian Nobility—from Fragrance to Footwear

At the Itsukinomiya Historical Experience Museum, visitors can explore the lifestyle of the Saio, who served at Ise Shrine during the Heian period.

One highlight is the “Sokaren,” a replica of the palanquin used by the Saio when traveling from the capital to Saiku. Guests can sit inside this luxurious carriage and experience the gentle swaying motion that once carried nobility, evoking the feeling of time travel.

For a sensory experience of court life, try the incense experience, where visitors can enjoy the faint, drifting scent of traditional aromatic wood used by aristocrats. This practice was part of noble grooming and offers a glimpse into the refined aesthetics of the era.

To feel the spirit of a Heian warrior, try the archery experience. Drawing the bow and aiming at the target lets you relive the skills of ancient samurai. The sound of an arrow slicing through the quiet air brings a thrilling sense of focus and tradition.

Visitors can also try walking in “asagutsu,” the wooden footwear worn by nobles. The distinctive sound and smooth fit allow you to experience the elegance of everyday aristocratic life.

For those interested in Heian fashion, the “Kouchiki” court robe experience is recommended. Lighter than the formal twelve-layered kimono, yet just as graceful, this elegant attire transforms the wearer and offers a taste of ancient nobility.

Experience Heian-Era Games and the Wisdom of the Nobility

Guests can also enjoy hands-on experiences with Heian-period games once loved by aristocrats more than a thousand years ago.

Start with “ban-sugoroku,” a predecessor of modern board games. Combining strategy and chance, it was a popular pastime among nobles. Roll the dice, move your pieces, and enjoy the thrill of victory, just as the courtiers did long ago.

Next, try “kai-awase,” a memory game that challenges players to find matching pairs of beautifully illustrated shells. This refined and aesthetic pastime tested both memory and artistic appreciation.

For a more active challenge, take part in “gicchou,” a court sport where players use sticks to hit a ball in a game similar to modern hockey. Once enjoyed by palace elites, it’s a lively way to explore history through movement.

Another graceful game is “kemari,” in which players, dressed in court attire, attempt to keep a ball in the air without letting it fall. Unlike modern soccer, this game focused on coordination and elegance, symbolizing the cooperative spirit of aristocratic play.

Transform into a Heian Aristocrat in Noble Attire

One of the most captivating experiences at Itsukinomiya Historical Experience Museum is trying on the elegant clothing of Heian nobility.

For women, the “junihitoe,” or twelve-layered kimono, is a stunning highlight. This richly colored ceremonial robe creates a majestic and poetic silhouette reminiscent of scenes from a Heian-era scroll. The layering of colors was not only beautiful but also expressed seasons and social status. Summer and winter versions allow guests to appreciate the seasonal shifts in noble attire.

For men, try on the “noshi,” a formal garment worn by emperors and high-ranking nobles. With its relaxed silhouette and dignified elegance, this outfit embodies the grace of ancient court life. Light yet refined, it creates a noble presence.

Children can also enjoy dressing up in special Heian-style costumes designed just for them. Once dressed, they’ll look like they’ve stepped straight out of a picture scroll, creating perfect photo opportunities and cherished memories.

Craft Traditional Seasonal Charms in the Spirit of Heian Culture

The people of the Heian period often crafted seasonal ornaments and charms using natural materials to celebrate important occasions. At Itsukinomiya Historical Experience Museum, visitors can join workshops that recreate these ancient traditions.

One such workshop is the iris charm for the Boy’s Festival (Tango no Sekku). Believed to ward off evil, irises were displayed in the court as protective decorations. In this activity, guests make fragrant iris ornaments while learning about ancient beliefs in health and purification.

For the Tanabata festival, guests can participate in a workshop to create Tanabata decorations. In Heian times, nobles wrote poems on tanzaku papers and offered them to the stars. Crafting decorations with family and friends adds a deeper layer to this elegant tradition.

Another seasonal experience is making “udzuchi,” a small wooden mallet used as a New Year’s good-luck charm. Believed to “strike out fortune,” the udzuchi was a symbol of hope and prosperity. Guests can make their own charm, perfect for ringing in the new year with heartfelt wishes.

Facility information is accurate at the time of publication. Please refer to the official website for the latest updates.