Discover the elegance of kaga yuzen at a studio operated by a 3rd-generation artisan
2 hour private experience
Location: Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the master
What you’ll do
Explore Kaga Yuzen samples and materials, learning the secrets of this centuries-old dyeing tradition. Step into the workshop to watch artisans bring the fabrics to life, then try your hand at adding color yourself. Finally, slip into a stunning Kaga Yuzen kimono and capture the moment with a photo you’ll treasure.
Who can attend
Children must be 12+
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (10:00-12:00)
Session 2 (14:00 - 16:00)
Access
20 minutes from Kanazawa Station
Nature’s whimsy, captured in fabric
Upon initially viewing Kaga-yuzen dyed fabrics, one is struck by a sense of natural realism and beauty within the geometric designs. The history of yuzen fabric dyeing dates back 500 years to the unique local Kaga dyeing tradition of “ume-zome,” which derived dyes from the bark and roots of plum trees. Kaga-yuzen is characterized by five colors (indigo, rouge, ochre, dark green, and purple) that are prominently found in the local flora. Painted patterns also tend to have been inspired by floral motifs that are so realistic as to even depict leaves delicately eaten by insects. Such whimsy in the design adds a playful character to the overall composition of the design that is exquisitely charming. Immerse into the captivating craft of Kaga-yuzen, from observing authentic artisans at work, adding your own splash of color to fabric, and even wearing a masterpiece kimono made from Kaga-yuzen fabric, to experience fabric that tells a story as vivid and enduring as nature itself.
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.
