Kurihara, Miyagi Prefecture
Learn and experience Japan’s oldest dyeing technique – “Sho-Aizome”
This program offers an opportunity to experience “Sho-Aizome,” one of Japan’s oldest indigo dyeing techniques, passed down in the Monji area of Kurikoma, Kurihara City.
Sho-Aizome is a traditional method of indigo dyeing that does not involve heating. Instead, indigo fermentation and dyeing are carried out using natural temperatures and wood ash as a mordant. Due to the delicate nature of the process, dyeing is only possible during a short period in early summer (from early June to early July). The resulting indigo color is known for its soft and gentle hue.
In 2010, this technique was officially designated as an Intangible Cultural Property by Miyagi Prefecture.
This traditional indigo dyeing experience is available exclusively through Island-Monji, a local preservation group. The program is offered for a limited time each year, allowing participants to engage with a traditional craft deeply rooted in the Monji community
Try your hand at Sho-Aizome, a traditional indigo dyeing technique said to be the oldest in Japan, passed down for generations in the Monji district of the Kurikoma area in Kurihara City.
This is the only place in Japan where you can experience Kurihara’s authentic indigo dyeing culture. Choose between shibori-zome (tie-dyeing) or kata-zome (stencil dyeing), and create your own one-of-a-kind piece.
– Experience Flow –
- Apply your favorite pattern to a handkerchief. For stencil dyeing, choose a stencil and apply glue to create the design.
- Dip the handkerchief into a vat of ai-mizu (indigo liquid) and gently move it in the water to let the dye absorb.
- Fan the fabric to expose it to air — as it oxidizes, the color gradually changes to blue.
- Finally, rinse the handkerchief in fresh river water. The moment the fabric instantly transforms into a brilliant blue is a highlight of the experience.
Experience Snapshot
What's Included
- Dyeing materials
- Experience fee
- Interpreter
- Handling fee
Cost
Please inquire below.
Experience Availability
June 1st – July 15th
*Except every Wednesday
Average Duration
2 hours
Participants
From 1 – 30 guests.
Meeting Location
Kurihara, Miyagi Prefecture
Important notes
Reservation availability may vary. Reserve to confirm availability.
Please notify us at least 3 days before if you must cancel or modify your reservation.
Requests for reservations for this experience must be made at least three weeks in advance.
Inquire today
You can send a booking inquiry below. After we receive your inquiry, we will confirm the booking with our partners and send you a booking confirmation email at least two weeks before your desired date.
Please note this form does not confirm the availability of the experience.
Cancelation policy
Our cancelation policy for this experience is below. Percentages represent the non-refundable portion of your experience fee.
1 day before date of experience
50% of total price
Same Day
No refund
