1. What is Tsuruoka's traditional e-rosoku craft?

Tsuruoka’s e-rosoku, or painted candles, are a time-honored craft that was praised as the best in Japan by the 11th shogun, Tokugawa Ienari.

In this chapter, we will introduce the characteristics of Tsuruoka painted candles and why they are said to be the best in Japan.

・The origins and characteristics of painted candles

E-candles, a traditional craft of Tsuruoka, are said to have been created by candle-making craftsman Minagawa Jubei in the middle of the Edo period.

Besides Tsuruoka city, Sakata city, the Aizu region of Fukushima prefecture, and Nagaoka city in Niigata prefecture are also known as producers of painted candles, but the vivid floral patterns are what characterize Tsuruoka painted candles.

Candles decorated with designs of Imperial carriages (Genji carriages), lotus flowers, seasonal flowers, etc. are called kamonshoku.

・Tsuruoka's painted candles are Japan's best

The reason why Tsuruoka’s painted candles are acclaimed to be the best in Japan dates back to an incident that occurred during the Shonai Domain’s Sakai clan’s alternate attendance trips.

The painted candle that was to be presented to the 11th shogun, Tokugawa Ienari, broke on the way to the capital.

The craftsmen in Edo were unable to repair it, so Jubei Minagawa traveled from Tsuruoka to Edo and beautifully repaired the painted candle.

It is said that Tokugawa Ienari was so impressed by the advanced skills that he praised the painted candlesas “the best in Japan.”

After that, painted candles became a standard offering to the Sakai family. At the time, there were more than twenty candle shops, and it is said that they competed with each other in terms of skill and beauty in order to have their candles made into offerings.

2. Candle painting experience

Now, let’s try painting a candle!

You can experience painting in the space at the back of the store.

There is also space near the store that can be used by adults, so we can accommodate large groups.

There are three types of candles you can paint, listed below. Prices start from 660 yen each.

・Floating candle (experience fee: 660 yen each)
・Japanese candle [Small] (experience fee: 660 yen each)
・Japanese candle [Large] (experience fee: 1,100 yen each)

The writer tried their hand at painting a small Japanese candle, which is becoming increasingly popular.

・Instruction on the key points of the painting experience

Before starting to paint, you will be given an explanation of how to paint and important points to note.

We will introduce some of the key points of the activity.

The paints used for painting are poster colours, so be careful not to get them on your clothes.

They will lend you an apron, but it’s safer to wear clothes with simple sleeves.

Painting is done with a brush. When changing colors, wash the brush thoroughly with water and dry it before using the next color.

・Design selection

Once you have decided on the type of candle you want to paint, it’s time to think about the design.

You can also create a one-of-a-kind design!

You can also use the designs of painted candle craftsmen as a reference!

I’m not very good at drawing, so I used a craftsman’s design as a model.

The floating candles range from gorgeous designs typical of Tsuruoka’s painted candles to pop designs!

There are a variety of designs on them, so your children can have fun trying their hand at painting them using them as examples.

・Try painting

Now, let’s try painting!

The artist will be painting a plum blossom design, which evokes a spring feeling.

First, put the brush in brown paint…

Using the paper as a palette, smooth out the brush, leaving only the amount of paint you need on the brush.

When using the next color, wash the brush with water to remove all moisture.

Using the same process, I continued painting the red of the petals and the yellow of the pollen, working on it for about an hour.

The painted candle with plum blossoms is complete!

I gradually got the hang of it, and by the time I finished, I was so engrossed in painting that I had enjoyed the experience.

Once the painting is complete, the candle will be coated with wax and your one-of-a-kind candle will be completed!

3. Painted candles from Togashi Candle Shop

Painted candles are popular as souvenirs and gifts, and at Togashi Candle Shop you can purchase some with designs that change with the seasons.

Here we will introduce some of the most popular products from Togashi Candle Shop.

・Floating candles

This uniquely shaped round candle can float on water and you can enjoy its light.

The jellyfish and zodiac designs, which are a reference to the Tsuruoka City Kamo Aquarium, a famous jellyfish aquarium located in the city, are apparently very popular.

There are many other designs available, so be sure to find one you like.

・Japanese candles

The classic Japanese candles are just as popular as the floating candles.

Recently, compact painted candles have also become popular.

There are also sets of two candles with the same design, and sets that allow you to enjoy painted candles with various designs. The time you spend over the counter wondering “Which painted candle should I get?” will be a memorable moment.

4. Message

Yuko Komatsu (pictured left), manager of Togashi Candle Shop, has sent a message to VISIT YAMAGATA readers.

“When you hear the term traditional crafts, you might feel a little intimidated, but painting painted candles is a fun experience that feels just like painting a picture.

Since it can be experienced by even small children, it will be one of the items that will allow you to see your child’s growth.

The experience is relatively short, taking only 30 to 60 minutes, so it’s also recommended for when you’re waiting for a train or bus. Please come and try your hand at painting a candle.