Witness historic Hakata weaving, a textile once prized by the shoguns, at an authentic textile factory.
1.5 hour private experience
Location: Kasuya District, Fukuoka
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
Visit a Hakata weaving factory and observe the textile production process on a private tour led by the atelier owner. Then, try hand-weaving on looms to experience how weavers worked for countless centuries.
Who can attend
Children must be 7+
Availability
Monday to Friday
Session 1 (10:00 - 11:30)
Session 2 (13:00 - 15:00)
Unavailable every weekends, Obon holidays and New Year holidays.
Access
30 minutes by car from Hakata Station or 50 minutes by train
Tradition, Technique, and Textiles
A textile developed over 800 years ago in the Kamakura period that remains praised even in modern times for its artistry and durability, Hakata-ori weaving is a living art. Most often woven into men's kimono obi belts, Hakata-ori weaving features elaborate patterns and Buddhist philosophy, as was highly beloved by samurai during the Edo Period, but has become increasingly favored by contemporary sumo champions as well. In its representative kenjo-gara design, patterns representing both filial piety and Buddhist iconography such as the dokko hammer and hanazara metal plate are boldly displayed on the fabric, imbuing the elegant material with deep, contemplative meaning. During periods of alternate attendance, in which daimyo lords would spend alternating years attending court in Edo and ruling over their local domains, Fukuoka's feudal lord would present textiles with these patterns to the Tokugawa Shogunate. At this Fukuoka textile factory, observe artisans hard at work weaving Hakata-ori fabric. Then, step behind a manually powered loom for the chance to try some traditional Hakata weaving techniques.
Cancellation Policy
Please make your booking at least 14 days in advance. See cancellation policy here.
A detailed itinerary will be emailed to you once your booking has been confirmed.
