Traditional Dyeing in Shinjuku: Beat the Heat with a Cool Dyeing Experience by the River
Enjoy Traditional Dyeing Experience in Shinjuku
Our company offers dyeing experience tours at “Tomita Sen Kogei (Tokyo Some Monogatari Museum)” and “Some-no-Sato Ochiai.” Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you can dye your own cotton tablecloths, tote bags, and silk scarves, creating unique, personalized products. This summer, many children are participating in dyeing, an activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Not only is it fun, but it’s also a great opportunity to learn about the traditional culture of Shinjuku, Tokyo.
The History of Dyeing in Tokyo
Dyeing requires a large amount of water to wash away the dyes and starch, which is why Tokyo’s dyeing industry began along the water-rich Kanda River during the Edo period. In the Meiji and Taisho periods, dye houses moved upstream along the Kanda River, spreading to areas such as Edogawabashi, Waseda, and Ochiai in search of better water. Even today, this area remains a center for the dyeing industry. In the past, it was common in Tokyo to see people washing kimono dyes and starch in the river.
“Iki” Born from “Tokyo Some-Komon” and Samurai Culture
“Tokyo Some-Komon (Edo Komon)” is a traditional craft designated by the Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, and “Edo Sarasa” is recognized as a traditional craft of Tokyo. “Some-Komon” is a dyeing technique that features tiny, repeated patterns, and from the mid-17th to the mid-19th century, it was used by samurai to distinguish their domain by the patterns on their attire when they entered Edo Castle.
This “Some-Komon” symbolizes samurai culture, appearing solid from a distance but revealing intricate craftsmanship up close, embodying the aesthetic of “Iki” (refined beauty). Due to the luxury ban, “Some-Komon” was also adopted by commoners, spreading the “Iki” culture from samurai to the townspeople. Especially in the Kagurazaka area of Shinjuku, the “Iki” culture remains strong and is highly regarded.
Modern Dyeing Studios and Environmental Considerations
Today, due to environmental considerations, rivers are no longer used to wash away dyes and starch. Instead, long tanks installed in the studios are used. However, these studios still exist along the rivers, preserving their historical locations.
A Cool and Comfortable Dyeing Experience in Shinjuku
Working in a cool, air-conditioned studio by the river, with the sound of flowing water in the background, is a truly comfortable dyeing experience in Shinjuku. The hot summer is the perfect time to enjoy a dyeing experience in a refreshing environment. We encourage you to try the traditional Shinjuku industry. We guarantee that it will be an unforgettable experience.
