Celebrate Traditional Japanese Dyeing at the Thanksgiving Festival in Kagurazaka – A Unique Showcase of Artisanship and Culture
On November 16 (Sat) and 17 (Sun), 2024, a Thanksgiving Festival will be held by dye artisans at Bishamonten Zenkokuji Temple in Tokyo’s Kagurazaka. This event is organized by the dye studios that participated in the recent "Oedo Shinjuku Konya Meguri (Dyeing Workshop Tour)" held from October 31 to November 3, 2024. The festival celebrates the successful completion of the tour, which allows visitors to experience traditional dyeing firsthand. In Japan, dye artisans are called Konya (dye houses), a term originating in the Edo period when most dye works used ai-zome (indigo dye).
Under the main hall of Zenkokuji Temple, there will be exhibits of Edo Komon, Edo Sarasa, Tokyo Tegaki Yuzen, and other traditional dyeing techniques, as well as accessories related to kimono. These include Fukusa (decorative cloth), Haneri (collars), Kinchaku (pouches), "Tenugui" (traditional hand towels), and stoles. It’s a rare chance to witness the skills of artisans who have supported Shinjuku’s dyeing industry for over a century.
Don't Miss the Chance to Get the Traditional Japanese Towel 'Tenugui' – Experience Craftsmanship and Culture
Additionally, all visitors to the Thanksgiving Festival will receive a free "Tenugui," a traditional Japanese cloth dating back to the Nara period (710-794). "Tenugui" are used for wiping hands, faces, or bodies, similar to a towel. Beyond everyday use, they have been used as headgear at festivals, showcasing their versatility.
In the Edo period, "Tenugui" were essential items carried everywhere, just like today’s scarves. They were often draped over the shoulder or wrapped around the neck as a fashionable statement, showing off one's personal style.
"Tenugui (traditional hand towels)" have long been an integral part of Japanese daily life. Don’t miss this unique chance to get a free "Tenugui," admire the works of skilled artisans, and learn about Japanese traditional crafts.
Discover the Hidden Charms of Kagurazaka: A Town of Serendipity Awaits You with Unique Cultural Experiences
Kagurazaka is a unique area where various cultures merge harmoniously, which is why I think of it as "A Town of Serendipity.” Serendipity, meaning fortunate discovery by chance, perfectly describes Kagurazaka. Every corner reveals new sights reflecting the town’s cultural and historical layers. Why not explore Kagurazaka’s cobblestone alleys with our guide during the Konya Meguri Thanksgiving Festival and see what lucky discoveries await?
Recently, the CEO of a major American company who joined us on a Kagurazaka tour shared his impression: “I’ve traveled all over the world, but this experience with Ninja Kotan Travel was genuinely something special. This was hands down one of the best tours I’ve ever had.” Now it’s your turn to experience something truly unique in Kagurazaka.
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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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