The Rich Tradition of Aizome: Exploring Indigo Blue Dyeing and Its Historical Significance
Every November, the "Shinjuku Konya Meguri" tour takes place in Shinjuku Ward. "Konya" refers to dyers. During the Edo period, "Aizome" (indigo blue dyeing) dominated the dyeing industry, and dyers were collectively called "Konya" because "Kon" means "indigo blue color" and "Ya" means shop. The name "Kanda Konya-machi" still remains in Kanda, which was a dyeing hub before moving to Shinjuku.
"Aizome" is deeply rooted in Japanese life. During the samurai era, indigo blue was favored as a "lucky color." Even today, most kendo attire is indigo blue. The British scientist Atkinson, who visited Japan in the early Meiji era (1868-1912), described the sight of towns dyed in indigo as "Japan Blue," symbolizing Japan.
The Art of Aizome: From Indigo Dye to Intricate Kimono Fabrics
Aizome is a dyeing technique using the plant-based dye "ai" (indigo). The dyed fabric itself is also called Aizome. Plants like Tade-ai and Ryukyu-ai are used. The dye extracted from these plants, known as "indigotin," is collectively referred to as "ai."
There are many steps to turning fabric into kimonos. Sophisticated division of labor has developed, including dyeing techniques like Edo Komon, Edo Sarasa, Tokyo Hand-Painted Yuzen, embroidery like Edo Shishu, and finishing processes such as color correction, stretching, and washing.
Explore the Shinjuku Koya Meguri: A Journey Through Dyeing Workshops and Cultural Festivals
During the "Shinjuku Konya Meguri," you can visit various workshops related to dyeing, mainly in the Ochiai, Takadanobaba, and Waseda areas, along the Kanda River and Myoshoji River in Shinjuku Ward.
Why not take this opportunity to explore the world of Koya, a dyeing industry deeply rooted in the Shinjuku community, during the "Shinjuku Konya Meguri"? An artisan's Thanksgiving festival will also be held at Zenkokuji Bishamonten in Kagurazaka. Detailed schedules for the "Shinjuku Konya Meguri" will be announced in early September.
Experience Shinjuku's Dyeing Tradition Year-Round with Regular Tours
For travelers not staying in Tokyo in November, don't worry. We offer regular tours to "Tomita Sen Kogei (Tokyo Some Monogatari Museum, Nishi-Waseda)" and "Some no Sato Ochiai (Ochiai)," which are part of the "Shinjuku Konya Meguri." Isn't it wonderful that you can experience dyeing in Shinjuku at any time?
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