Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in Tokyo: Discover the Samurai Spirit through Kumihimo Braiding
In this fourth part of our series on Authentic Traditional Cultural Experiences in the Kagurazaka area of Tokyo, we introduce the Kumihimo Braiding Workshop. Here’s an overview of what you can gain from this unique experience.
Our tours have consistently received high ratings, with an impressive average score of 4.96 out of 5 (equivalent to 99.3 out of 100) as of November 1, 2024. This high level of satisfaction reflects the “something special” that participants feel they gain from our tours. We believe that this “something special” can be summed up as “happiness,” as expressed in the smiles and comments of participants in our Users’ Voices, such as “This was the best experience of my life.” Here is a summary of what each tour offers to bring that sense of happiness to you.
No.4: Kumihimo Braiding Workshop
What You Will Gain from This Tour
Learn the history and design of Kumihimo braiding at Domyo, a shop founded in 1652.
Understand the Zen and Samurai spirit through the art of Kumihimo braiding.
Create and take home your original handcrafted strap as a keepsake.
Kumihimo Braiding: From Samurai Sword Accessories to Kimono Tradition
Today, Kumihimo braiding is primarily used for Obi-jime, cords that tie kimono sashes. However, during the Edo period, it was also widely used for the Sageo (cord) on samurai swords. Originally, this cord attached the scabbard to the wearer’s kimono sash to prevent it from falling. Yet, it also served as an aesthetic element, with particular attention given to its color and pattern as a decorative item.
It is said that samurai would braid the Sageo themselves, competing in style and craftsmanship to accessorize their own swords. Samurai also reportedly created and sold braided cords to Kumihimo shops as an additional source of income.
Discover the Samurai's Path of Mental Discipline and Cultural Insight
Samurai took up Kumihimo braiding not only for fashion or income but also as a form of mental discipline. Those who experience Kumihimo braiding understand that it requires intense concentration, making it ideal for samurai seeking spiritual training. This aligns with the samurai’s appreciation for Zen and the tea ceremony.
Thus, the Kumihimo experience is more than just creating a braided strap. Through the focus required during the braiding process, you engage in the same mental training as Samurai from hundreds of years ago. By connecting with this aspect of Japanese culture, including Zen and the tea ceremony, you gain insight into the depths of Japanese tradition. This Kumihimo Braiding Workshop offers a valuable opportunity to experience the interconnected elements of Japanese culture. We invite you to join us.
Tour Details
Tour Duration: 2 hours
Location: Domyo. The nearest stations are Kagurazaka Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line and Ushigome-Kagurazaka Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
Price: 17,000 yen per person (non-private); 90,000 yen for a private group of up to 8 people.
Age Requirement: Ages 6 and above
Booking Period: Next-day bookings available
Accessibility: Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome.
Meeting Point: The meeting location will be decided upon consultation with the customer. Hotel pickup is also available for an additional fee.
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How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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