The Best 19 Things to Do in Shinjuku (Experience Traditional Dyeing)
Experience Traditional Dyeing: Things to Do in Shinjuku
Today, we introduce the dyeing experience offered by Tomita Sen Kogei (Tokyo Some Monogatari Museum), one of ‘The Best 19 Things to Do in Shinjuku’ for which we are selling tours.
Many dyeing-related businesses gathered in the Kanda River basin, seeking clean water suitable for dyeing. As a local industry in Shinjuku, they continue to preserve traditional crafts while incorporating new designs. Our company, Tomita Sen Kogei, which offers dyeing experience tours, is the largest dyeing workshop.
Tomita Sen Kogei Was Founded in 1882
Tomita Sen Kogei was founded in 1882 by the first generation, Tomita Kichibei, in Asakusa, marking the beginning of its history. In 1914 (Taisho 3), the dyeing workshop for Edo Komon and Edo Sarasa was relocated to its current location in Waseda. The workshop retains traditional features such as the “Itaba” and the steam box used to fix colors on dyed fabrics, providing a nostalgic atmosphere.
The workshop has amassed an extensive collection of Ise Katagami stencils, totaling over 120,000 sheets for Edo Komon and Edo Sarasa. Among them are many with a modern touch. Edo Komon (Tokyo Dyed Small Patterns) and Edo Sarasa are designated as traditional crafts by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry and as Tokyo Metropolitan Traditional Crafts, respectively.
Tomita Atsushi, the fifth generation of Tomita Sen Kogei, proposes dyeing using Edo Komon and Edo Sarasa patterns for modern items such as scarves and parasols that suit contemporary lifestyles. Tomita Sen Kogei also produces the “Furoshiki cloth,” which became official Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics merchandise. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike wore the “Furoshiki cloth” as a scarf, sparking interest. Tomita Sen Kogei also has a branch in Paris, France.
Experience Tote Bag Dyeing at Tomita Sen Kogei
Wouldn’t you like to experience tote bag dyeing at Tomita Sen Kogei (Tokyo Some Monogatari Museum)? Choose from 12 floral patterns or the playful raccoon pattern and dye it onto a tote bag. Dyeing at this long-standing workshop is sure to create unforgettable memories. Moreover, you can use your own tote bag in your daily life, making it a wonderful souvenir of your trip to Japan.
