Stencil Dyeing

1. Postcards made with Ise Katagami paper “Ise Katagami” artisans carve over 900 intricate patterns on a one-inch space of durable washi paper for kimono stencil dyeing In this session, you’ll use a katagami stencil by craftsperson Chiaki Imasaka for postcard stencil dyeing 2. Mizuhiki-style money envelope Learn the art of creating Mizuhiki-style money envelopes, traditional Japanese decorative cords used for special occasions. Mizuhiki bookmark 3. Learn the art of Mizuhiki, a traditional Japanese craft used for celebratory envelopes and gifts, which involves coloring and winding silk thread around a core. 4. Craft Mini Clasp Purses Create mini-sized clasp purses and coin cases with traditional Japanese fabric and washi paper, perfect for use as accessory cases.

Your experience begins at a historic dyeing workshop, in operation since 1914, where artisans have preserved the tradition of Edo Komon and Edo Sarasa patterns. Here, you’ll design and decorate your own tote bag using a traditional stencil dyeing technique—no experience needed! You'll also get a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind these intricate patterns as you explore the workshop. With your custom tote bag in hand, you’ll visit Higo Hosokawa Garden, a peaceful Japanese garden with seasonal beauty all year round. Stroll through elegant pathways, take in the scenic pond views, and capture stunning photos of your handcrafted bag against a backdrop of cherry blossoms, autumn foliage, or lush greenery—depending on the season. To add a nostalgic touch to your journey, you’ll also hop on the Tokyo Sakura Tram, a charming streetcar that has been running for over a century. It offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Tokyo’s last tram lines and its retro atmosphere.

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kurashiki! The main attraction in Kurashiki is its atmospheric Bikan quarter, an area of historic buildings along an old willow-edged canal, laneways lined with old wooden houses and shops, and perfectly preserved Edo period mills. Visiting Kurashiki Bikan is like takling a step back in time! Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced English Speaking tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kurashiki! The main attraction in Kurashiki is its atmospheric Bikan quarter, an area of historic buildings along an old willow-edged canal, laneways lined with old wooden houses and shops, and perfectly preserved Edo period mills. Visiting Kurashiki Bikan is like taking a step back in time! Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary.