On August 1, a handmade general store “IRODORI” (Nakamachi, Kuroishi) was opened on Komise Dori in Kuroishi.

The shop has a workshop where you can experience making fans and lanterns using Neputa paintings, and a space for selling handmade miscellaneous goods by artists in the Tsugaru area. It is operated by the Kuroishi NPO "Yokomachi Jumonji Machisodatekai". The store area is 5.5 tsubo.

Yokomachi Jumonji Machisodatekai is conducting a town walk tour, store remodeling design, and food promotion activities with the concept of creating a "third place" next to home and work in the center of Kuroishi. .. Founded in 2014. Members are in their 20s and 50s, who are active mainly in Kuroishi.

"The experience of making a fan is already being carried out as part of a town walk for five years, and I decided to use the collected Neputa pictures other than a fan, and I decided to make a lantern and sell it as a product. It's delicate and looks great when used for miscellaneous goods," said Masayuki Kimura, the owner.

"We want to create a place where people can relax and at the same time add color to their daily lives as an extraordinary space. We want to increase traditional Kokeshi Kokeshi dolls and Hirosaki pigeon flutes that can only be purchased here."

Fans are 1,800 yen, lanterns are 1st tier = 3,500 yen, 2nd tier = 5,800 yen, 3rd tier = 8,800 yen. The production experience is the same as the selling price. The experience time is expected to be 40 minutes or more, and by extending the stay time, it aims to become a spot where you can enjoy Kuroishi.

Kimura says with a smile, "This year, the Neputa Festival was canceled due to the new coronavirus, so it would be a good place for locals to feel Neputa."

Business hours are weekdays = 11:00 to 15:00, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays = 10:00 to 16:00. Closed on Tuesdays.