Dyeing Studio
Two types of dyeing techniques (Edo Komon and Edo Sarasa)
Edo Komon
Edo Komon is a type of stencil dyeing that developed during the Edo period (1603 - 1868), tracing its roots back to the Muromachi period (1336 - 1573). Initially, motifs used on armor and family crests began to be applied to clothing, and later, they were used in formal samurai attire called “Kamishimo.”
Under the strict sumptuary laws imposed by the Edo Shogunate, the common people also secretly enjoyed fashion. Luxury silk was forbidden, so materials like Tsumugi (pongee), cotton, and linen were utilized, and flamboyant colors were avoided. However, colors like brown and mouse gray were permitted. In this environment, artisans honed their unique skills to satisfy the fashionable desires of the common folk with limited colors, offering Edo Komon that catered to their sense of style.
Particularly around the Kanda River area, where water was abundant, dyeing techniques flourished, and even today, many dyeing businesses can be found in the Ochiai district.
Edo Sarasa
Sarasa, originating from India over 3000 years ago, is characterized by its colorful patterns of flowers and figures dyed on cotton using five colors. It was introduced to Japan in the Muromachi period (1336 - 1573) and flourished as a unique culture during the Edo period (1603 - 1868).
Artisans, using Japanese stencil dyeing techniques, brought to life these exotic Sarasa designs in vivid colors, expressing unique scenes of nature and the four seasons. By the late Edo period, distinguished Sarasa artisans emerged, spreading the fame of Edo Sarasa.
Edo Sarasa is known for its exotic ambiance yet possesses a deep subtlety and the aesthetic qualities of 'wabi' and 'sabi,' reflecting the beauty consciousness of Edo's people. The unique taste of Edo Sarasa, particularly the distinctive astringency created by the chemical reactions with the hard water of the Kanda River, is one of its charms. Today, Tokyo's Edo Sarasa is the only producer of Sarasa in Japan.
Would you like to create your own Edo Sarasa piece in a studio with over 100 years of history? The Edo Sarasa created in this studio was traditionally made for ordinary people's kimonos, while the Edo Komon was for the samurai's crested hakama, truly embodying the attire of Edo itself. Being directly taught in English by an authentic dyeing artisan, you will create your own Edo Sarasa masterpiece, making an unforgettable memory in your lifetime.
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Edo Komon and Edo Sarasa Selected as Among the 42 'Traditional Crafts of Tokyo'
Dyeing businesses specializing in Komon and Sarasa dyeing, in search of high-quality water abundant in Kanda and Asakusa, gradually moved up the clear stream of the Kanda River, relocating to Edogawabashi and then to Ochiai (Shinjuku Ward). Today, they continue to inherit traditional techniques as one of the few local industries in Shinjuku Ward.
Shinjuku Ward: One of Japan's Three Major Dyeing Industry Centers, Alongside Kyoto and Kanazawa
Until the mid-1960s, the area around the Kanda River and Myoshoji River in Tokyo (where they merge at Takadanobaba) was home to over 300 dyeing-related businesses. Thus, Shinjuku Ward was recognized as one of Japan's three major dyeing industry centers, alongside Kyoto and Kanazawa. However, due to the shrinking kimono market, the number has drastically reduced to about 10 companies today.
'Some no sato Ochiai': A Dyeing Studio with Over 100 Years of History
'Some no sato Ochiai' is a long-established studio founded in 1920. They held an 'Edo Sarasa and Komon Exhibition' at the Japanese Embassy in London in 2003. In this way, while spreading Edo dyeing techniques abroad, they have also produced a wide range of products not only for traditional Japanese clothing but also for Western attire, such as tapestries and scarves.
English Instruction by Artisans
At 'Some no Sato Ochiai,' skilled artisans provide dyeing instruction in English. Enjoy an authentic 'Edo Sarasa' dyeing experience alongside real artisans.
Authentic Edo Sarasa and Your Own Dyed Table Centerpiece as Souvenirs
Participants of the experience tour can take home one authentic Edo Sarasa piece (valued at 11,000 yen) created by craftsmen and one table centerpiece they dye themselves. Please take them as souvenirs of your trip to Japan.
You can exchange for other items
Additionally, by paying the difference at the adjacent shop, you can exchange for other items, including Edo Komon bags (valued at 35,000 yen), instead of the authentic Edo Sarasa.
Dyeing Experience Tour Information
Meeting point
The meeting point will be at the bottom of the stairs of Exit 4 at Ochiai (T02) Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line.
Tour Duration
The dyeing experience tour lasts about 2 hours. Including the Kagurazaka street walking tour, it will be a total of approximately 4 hours.
The meeting time is between 12:30 and 12:45.
As the dyeing experience tour will have other participants, we strictly request that you do not be late. Please note that refunds cannot be provided if you are unable to participate in the tour due to being late. We ask for your understanding in this matter.
Accessibility
We want as many people as possible to participate in the dyeing experience. However, since the dyeing experience may be challenging for young children, participation is limited to those aged 10 and above.
Please consult us in advance if you are a wheelchair user. We will make every effort to accommodate your participation. However, please understand that navigating through the dyeing studio in a wheelchair may be difficult, and we cannot guarantee participation for everyone.
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Would you like to create your own Edo Sarasa piece in a studio with over 100 years of history? The Edo Sarasa created in this studio was traditionally made for ordinary people's kimonos, while the Edo Komon was for the samurai's crested hakama, truly embodying the attire of Edo itself. Being directly taught in English by an authentic dyeing artisan, you will create your own Edo Sarasa masterpiece, making an unforgettable memory in your lifetime.