Traditional Kyoto Textile Tour & Weaving at a Studio

Experience the Aesthetics of "Nishiki-ori," the Pinnacle of Textile Art
Just as the word "Nishiki" is used as a synonym for "the most beautiful of things," Nishiki weaving represents the pinnacle of Japanese silk textiles. Introduced from the continent and uniquely evolved within Japan, we invite you to experience the rich history and radiant beauty of these intricate patterns that shimmer complexly under the light.

A Tour of a 130-Year-Old “Living Studio,” Led by an Artisan Couple
Guided by a master artisan couple, you will visit a studio that has been operating for 130 years. From the restoration of ancient textiles over 1,000 years old to Nishiki weaving infused with modern sensibilities, the creators themselves will explain the profound essence of this tradition, offering insights that cannot be found in textbooks.

[Sharing Kyoto Exclusive] An Authentic Creative Experience Starting with the Threads
Exclusive to this plan, your experience begins with "thread preparation" before the weaving process. You will select your favorite 5 colors from 30 varieties of silk thread and wind them onto the tools yourself. This process breathes life into a creation that is uniquely yours.

One-on-One Guidance: Take Home your Finished Piece the Same Day
With an artisan by your side providing attentive, one-on-one support, even beginners can weave authentic silk textiles with confidence. Your completed work will be carefully finished on the spot, allowing you to take it home immediately as a cherished memory of Kyoto.

◎ English-speaking local guide
◎ Studio tour
◎ Weaving experience
× Transportation costs

Studio Tour
Guided by the artisan couple, you will tour the studio of Koho Tatsumura. You will have the rare opportunity to explore the inner workings of the normally private studio, home to exquisite works of Nishiki art, historically significant restored ancient textiles, traditional Takahata (high looms), and valuable textile archives.

Thread Preparation Experience
Prepare the threads for your weaving session yourself. Choose your favorite 5 colors from an array of approximately 30 colorful silk threads to create your unique color scheme. You will then wind these selected threads onto the kuda (quill) used for the loom, setting the stage for your creation.

Hand-Weaving Experience
It is finally time to sit at the loom and weave your own piece. Using the threads you selected and wound yourself, you will weave a piece of silk fabric approximately 10cm x 10cm (about 4 x 4 inches).

Finishing Touches & Conclusion
Your completed work will be carefully finished by the artisan on-site, allowing you to take it home with you immediately.

・Your reservation will be confirmed upon a reply from Sharing Kyoto.
・Please book at least 1 days in advance so that we can build the best experience for you.
・Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply. Minors must obtain the consent of a parent or guardian before applying. Elementary school children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
・The experience may be canceled or postponed at short notice, or the content may be changed due to traffic conditions, etc.
・We may share your responses to surveys and reviews on our social networking sites and media.

・Free of charge for cancellations up to 3 days prior to the tour date, 100% for cancellations 2 days or less prior to the tour date.
・Special Cases (Natural disaster, virus, etc.): Full refund.
・Transaction fees for refunds in the event of cancellation will be borne by the customer.
・Please contact us if you will be more than 5 minutes late. If you are late without notice, we may have to treat your booking as a cancellation. Please be aware of this policy.