Are you looking for a new kind of experience to get in touch with Japanese culture? Why not try to make your kumihimo and bring it back home as a special souvenir from your trip to Japan? You will get to know more about the traditional Japanese art of braiding silk threads and you'll have the chance to see the skilled artisans at work.
What is kumihimo?
Kumihimo is the Japanese word for "gathered threads" and it is an antique form of craft where silk threads are weaved together using traditional wooden looms.
Imported from China and the Korean peninsula during the Nara period (645-784 AD), it soon evolved in complexity, patterns and colors as it blended with various aspects of the Japanese lifestyle. Kumihimo was used for several purposes, such as decoration in Buddhist temples, as noblemen's attires, and later by the samurai for sword straps, armor, and horses.
In the Meiji period, following the decline of the samurai class, people began to use kumihimo as obijime to hold kimono's sash and draw attention to its fabric.
You might be familiar with kumihimo from the popular movie "Your Name" in which Mitsuha uses it to tie her hair, while Taki as a bracelet.
About TOZABURO HIMO
Up on the mountains, in a peaceful atmosphere away from the noises of the city, is TOZABURO HIMO, a company of skilled artisans specialized in the manufacturing of kumihimo. Their history dates back to 1867 when Tozaburo Oda opened a rice shop on Osaka mountain, in Shiga prefecture. The Tozaburo family developed unique patterns and techniques and did massive research on vegetable dyeing. Today's 4th generation is preserving over 150 years old tradition.
About the experience
You will be creating your own kumihimo using kakudai (square frame) and choosing your desidered item among two types of bracelets and a keyholder. You can choose up to 4 different colors. You will be guided by the artisans during the whole process, who will also give you interesting insights about the history of kumihimo and the traditional looms that are still used today. Our staff will provide English translation.
Find out more about the workshop at the following link
https://kyoto-asahiya.com/products/kumihimo-workshop