Introducing Kagurazaka Machitobi Festa 2024 Recommended Event #1: Kumihimo Experience in Tokyo

Explore the Art of Kumihimo: A Highlight of Kagurazaka Machitobi Festa 2024

The Kagurazaka Machitobi Festa 2024, taking place in Shinjuku’s Kagurazaka from Saturday, October 12th to Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, features numerous events. Among them, I’d like to introduce events related to our traditional cultural experience tours and other recommended activities. The first event I’d like to highlight is the “Kumihimo” experience at Domyo in Tokyo. Domyo is a long-established Kumihimo company founded in 1652.

At Domyo, two Kumihimo events are scheduled: “Exhibition of Historical Masterpieces of Japanese Kumihimo using Reproductions” and “Discover and Enjoy Traditional Japanese Craft: Kumihimo.” It has been 1,400 years since Japanese Kumihimo (traditional braiding) was introduced from mainland China. After arriving in Japan, Kumihimo developed into a uniquely intricate and sophisticated craft unlike any other in the world. Through Kumihimo, artisans mastered techniques to create extremely delicate designs in thin cords. Now, you have the chance to learn about and experience this amazing craft and art form in Kagurazaka.

Dive into History: Japanese Kumihimo Experiences in Tokyo

First, let me introduce the details of the “Exhibition of Historical Masterpieces of Japanese Kumihimo using Reproductions,” which will be held over 11 days. The event schedule is as follows, and a 30-minute Kumihimo work commentary will be provided daily at 3:00 PM.

Date and Time: October 24th (Thu) – November 3rd (Sun), 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Kumihimo Experience by DOMYO, 6-75 Kagurazaka
Reservation: No reservation required
Event Details: The historical masterpieces of Japanese Kumihimo include braids from Horyu-ji Temple and Shosoin Repository, the braid from the casket of Fujiwara no Hidehira at Chuson-ji Temple, the scroll straps of Heike Nokyo at Itsukushima Shrine, and the double-sided hexagonal braids of the purple-soled Ō-yoroi at Ontake Shrine. Domyo, a long-established Kumihimo atelier, has studied and restored these historical braids and incorporated these techniques into modern obi-jime (kimono sashes). This exhibition showcases these restored pieces along with contemporary obi-jime, offering a glimpse into the essence of Japanese Kumihimo.

Meet the Expert: Insights from Renowned Kumihimo Specialist Ms. Mihoko Domyo

The commentary for the “Exhibition of Historical Masterpieces of Japanese Kumihimo using Reproductions” will be provided by Ms. Mihoko Domyo, among others. Ms. Mihoko Domyo is a renowned expert in not only Kumihimo but also in traditional textiles and folk costumes worldwide. She has authored books like “Traditional Textiles and Folk Costumes of Asia” and has served as a professor at several universities. Just having the opportunity to hear her commentary is reason enough to visit the exhibition. Below is a brief biography of Ms. Mihoko Domyo:

Education: Master’s Degree from the Graduate School of Humanities, University of Tokyo. Studied at the Lyon Textile Museum in France as a government-sponsored student.
Positions Held: Professor Emeritus at Bunka Gakuen University, Guest Professor at The Open University of Japan, Curator at the Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum, Japan Representative for CIETA (International Centre for the Study of Textiles and Costumes), Director of the Asian Folk Art Society, Board Member of the Hirayama Ikuo Silk Road Museum, and Councilor for the Japan Silk Association. Recipient of the Japan Silk Merit Award. Currently, she is the Director of Domyo Kumihimo School.

Don’t Miss Out: An Affordable Kumihimo Experience You Can’t Refuse

Next, here are the details for “Discover and Enjoy Traditional Japanese Craft: Kumihimo.”

Date and Time:

Saturday, October 26th, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday, October 30th, 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Wednesday, October 30th, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM
Location: Kumihimo Experience by DOMYO, 6-75 Kagurazaka
Event Details: Participants will create a Kumihimo strap using beautifully colored silk threads on a Marudai (a traditional round braiding stand) following traditional techniques passed down since the Nara period. After completing the braid, you will also enjoy a commentary on the exhibited works from the “Exhibition of Historical Masterpieces of Japanese Kumihimo using Reproductions,” allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty, skill, and history of Kumihimo.
Participation Fee: ¥2,000
Capacity: Limited to 10 participants per session
Reservation: Reservation required

One of the highlights of “Discover and Enjoy Traditional Japanese Craft: Kumihimo” is the affordable participation fee. Normally, a Kumihimo experience at Domyo costs ¥6,000, but for this event, the experience is offered at ¥2,000. This event is limited to a total of 30 participants across the three sessions. If you are interested in experiencing Kumihimo, don’t miss this opportunity!

Year-Round English Kumihimo Tours: Discover the Beauty of Japanese Braiding

If you would like to experience Kumihimo in English, we offer a year-round Kumihimo experience tour at Domyo. No one can remain untouched by the beauty and depth of Kumihimo. We encourage you to experience this unique art form for yourself.

Book Each Experience

Kagurazaka Walking Tour

Ukiyo-e Woodblock Printing

Zen Meditation

Kumihimo Braiding

Samurai Sword Training

Clothing Rental (Samue or Outdoor Wear)

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.