Learn traditional tie-dying with an internationally acclaimed kimono designer
4 hour private experience
Location: Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Offered in Japanese, with a friendly Deeper Japan guide interpreting in your language
Meet the master
What you’ll make
Silk tsujigahana-stall or obiage
What you’ll do
Take a visual tour of the history of shibori and tsujigahana dyeing and then start the dyeing process yourself to make a stall. Enjoy some freshly made matcha and wagashi and then wrap up the session with an exclusive viewing of kimonos hand-dyed by the artisan
What you should know
The finished products will be steamed, treated and sent out to you about two weeks after the experience
Who can attend
You must be able to handle a needle and scissors as some basic sewing is involved
Children must be 7+
What to wear
An apron will be supplied, but just in case, avoid wearing your finest whites.
Availability
Tuesday-Saturday
Furoshiki
Session 1 (13:00 - 16:00)
Tsujigahana-Obiage
Session 1 (13:00 - 17:00)
Access
40 minutes from Kyoto Station.
Poignant beauty
Tsujigahana is a sophisticated form of shibori, or tie-dye, that uniquely combines fabric manipulation with drawing and foil impressions to create intricate and evocative designs. The process begins with carefully drawing the desired pattern onto pristine white fabric, after which the fabric is meticulously tied in preparation for dyeing. Once dyed, the bindings are released to reveal the striking contrast of untouched white patterns against the colored background, which are further enhanced by delicate ink drawing. This layering of techniques gives each piece a depth and complexity that is unmistakable. Originating in the Nara period (710–794 AD), Tsujigahana was historically favored by the aristocracy for its elegance and refinement. One of its most distinctive features is the subtle depiction of impermanence: flowers and leaves are often rendered with delicate signs of decay, gently reminding the viewer of life’s transient nature and the cycle of growth and decline. Each textile becomes not only a work of art but also a meditation on time, beauty, and mortality.
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.
