[Tokushima] Visiting Aizome artisans and dye a bespoke “Japan Blue” cloth

Features

Visit the workshop of a master craftsman dedicated to bringing ancient methods into modern times. After dyeing a selected section of cloth, participants can also have items they’ve brought with them (scarves, shirts, etc.) dyed and mailed to their accommodation in Japan.

Image of Target Customer

Authenticity-minded people interested in traditional handicrafts and dyeing. Fashion-related people, etc.

Activity Information

[Outline]It is said that the history of Indigo dyeing is ancient and dates back to 3000 BC. It was brought to Japan in the Asuka period and became rooted in the lives of the people. The major production area of Indigo, which was cultivated in Japan, is here in Tokushima. Visit the workshop of a craftsman (Mr. Yano) who has a long history of indigo dying with ancient inherited techniques. After a tour of the workshop, experience the indigo dyeing of a small item (handkerchief). Then, make an order for the dying of your own scarf brought from home (or any item you have which is natural material), and have the finished product mailed to your hotel. It is also possible to purchase the dyed works of Mr. Yano without bringing your own items.

[Itinerary]10a.m. Meet at Tokushima Station. Joined by English-speaking staff and visit the workshop by taxi (10:20). After talking with the craftsman and indigo dyeing experience, place order for re-dying (1.5 hours, ~ 12:00) . The meeting place and start time are negotiable, and if you give a month’s notice, you can be picked up from the hotel and / or arrange an afternoon visit.

Facility Information

It takes about 20 minutes by taxi from Tokushima Station (about 3,500 yen a way), but extra time is required because of jams in the morning and evening. There are many narrow roads but they are passable by microbus. Parking is available for up to three passenger cars.

photo by Toru Suzuki