Explore the sustainable vibrancy of Hokkaido textiles at a dyeing atelier led by a 5th-generation artisan
2 hour private experience
Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
A minimum of 2 guests is required to book. Solo participants are welcome but will be charged the 2-person rate
Meet the Master
What you’ll do
Tour a historic Hokkaido textile studio and hear how they mix modern practice with traditional craft. Then, join the 5th-generation master in a dyeing workshop using sustainable Hokkaido materials.
What’s included
A hand-dyed stole
What to wear/bring
Please come dressed in clothes that you don't mind getting a little dirty.
What else you should know
You can choose from four types of dyes. Please check when making a reservation.
Who can attend
Children must be 10+
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (9:00 - 11:00)
Session 2 (14:00 - 16:00)
Access
15 minutes' walk from JR Sapporo Station
The natural color of Hokkaido heritage
Textiles are a craft of undeniable importance in Japanese traditional arts. From the intricate stitching of obi belts and hand-painted kimono designs to the vast range of dyeing techniques deftly employed to create unique patterns, fabric has been a cultural cornerstone in Japan for centuries. And, despite a decrease in the number of people wearing traditional kimono and clothes in their everyday life, reserving it for matters of utmost celebration or extreme importance, textiles remain an integral art. At this Sapporo-based textile studio, with over 75 years of history and led by a 5th-generation artisan, they live by the philosophy of making tradition as easily accessible as possible, creating washable kimono-style t-shirts, denim-style kimono lined with indigenous Ainu patterns, and simplified obi to streamline daily use. But dyeing especially comprises a significant portion of their work, with colors sustainably crafted using native Hokkaido products. Mountain grapes, birch trees, aronia plants, and other naturally sourced materials bring elegant Hokkaido hues to dyed material, resulting in a final product immersed with local charm. Join master artisan Shigetaro-san at his studio, where tradition innovatively transforms to meet modern sensibilities, for a hands-on immersion in Hokkaido textiles.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 7 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
