Did You Know Tokyo’s Shinjuku Was a Major Center for Dyeing?
Many people—even Japanese—are unaware that Shinjuku, known today for its towering skyscrapers, was once a major center for fabric dyeing. In fact, few foreigners know of this history. In the late Edo period (1603-1868), Shinjuku was nationally renowned as one of the three major centers of dyeing, alongside Kyoto and Kanazawa.
The heart of the dyeing workshops was in Ochiai and Waseda, located along the Kanda and Myoshoji Rivers, areas blessed with excellent water quality. In that very Ochiai, this year’s grand dyeing event, “Some no Komichi 2025,” is being held from Friday, February 21, to Sunday, February 23, 2025. I visited the event on the morning of the 22nd. ‘Some no Komichi,’ meaning ‘Little Dyeing Path,’ is an annual event that showcases traditional Japanese dyeing arts.
Some no Komichi 2025
Dates: February 21 (Friday) – 23 (Sunday), 2025
Location: Around Nakai Station on the Toei Oedo Line / Seibu Shinjuku Line
A Bustling Celebration
This year marks the 16th edition of “Some no Komichi.” A riverside gallery above the Myoshoji River, draped with bolts of fabric in a rainbow of colors, attracted huge crowds, creating an atmosphere of lively festivity. From the refined hues of Edo Sarasa fabrics to the bright, playful colors dyed by elementary school children, the display was a true feast for the eyes.
On the 22nd, the weather was perfect, with clear skies. The dazzling sunlight reflected off the river and illuminated the gently swaying fabrics from every angle, with the colors shifting beautifully with the changing light—a mesmerizing sight that never grows old.
Nostalgic Scenes from Tokyo’s Dyeing Past
Ochiai, once the epicenter of Tokyo and Shinjuku’s dyeing industry, was familiar to locals as the scene of artisans washing freshly dyed fabrics along the river. Although environmental concerns have since led to the discontinuation of this water washing, “Some no Komichi” was launched in part to revive these nostalgic images and celebrate the rich heritage of the area.
Additional Events at Ochiai – Try Cutting Straw Yourself with a Real Sword!
“Some no Komichi” will be open until tomorrow, February 23, and several other exciting events are planned.
Here’s an exclusive tip I heard today: at the Musashi no Kuni Mugai-kai in Ochiai—where 'Some no Komichi' is held—you can try traditional straw cutting with a real sword at 3:00 PM. This rare opportunity lets you enjoy both a scenic boat ride and a samurai experience. Be sure to visit Ochiai!
Hands-On Experience at “Some no Gakko” (Dyeing School)
Get a hands-on experience with traditional dyeing techniques and take home your own handmade piece.
Dates: February 22 (Sat) & February 23 (Sun)
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM (tentative)
Location: Ochiai Daisan Elementary School Gymnasium
No reservation required (first-come, first-served)
Activities:
Dyeing Workshop (Paid Experience) – Learn from expert dyeing artisans and create your own dyed piece to take home.
Dyeing Demonstration & Talk Show – Watch skilled craftsmen at work and hear their stories. Some no Komichi Tour Guide Session – Get insider tips on the best spots to visit.
Japanese Session: 11:00 – 11:30 AM
English Session: 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Enjoy Live Music at "Oto no Komichi" (Music Alley)
Some no Komichi isn’t just about dyeing—on the final day, a live music event featuring artists connected to the Ochiai and Nakai areas will take place.
Date: February 23 (Sun)
Time: 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Location: Swan Bakery Ochiai
Performers: 7 groups (TBA)
Free Entry (Guests are encouraged to order food or drinks at the venue.)
More Events Happening Alongside Some no Komichi
Nekomichi Art Fest 2025 – Inspired by the local cats that roam the charming alleys, this festival features handmade accessories, clothing, crafts, and organic tea.
Dates: February 21 (Fri) – February 22 (Sat)
Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Gallery Space TRY
Lantern Art Festival at Nakai Station South Exit – A magical display of 400 handmade lanterns created by local residents, plus food stalls and a lantern-making experience.
Dates: February 22 (Sat) & February 23 (Sun)
Time: Feb 22: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Feb 23: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: Nakai Station South Exit Plaza
No reservation required
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