Aya Fiber Studio

I am pleased to announce the organization of an exclusive, intimate group trip to Japan that promises to be an extraordinary experience. This tour is specifically curated for textile art enthusiasts and will include visits to the studios of renowned Japanese artists and sightseeing at some of Japan's most iconic and picturesque locations.

This unique Textile Tour offers participants an exceptional opportunity to delve into the profound tradition and beauty of Japanese indigo dyeing and traditional Japanese craft. Designed to cater to both beginners and experienced textile artists, the workshops will provide comprehensive knowledge and hands-on practice. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the intricate processes involved in creating the rich blue hues characteristic of indigo dye, fostering a profound appreciation for this ancient craft. Whether your goal is to enhance your artistic skills or indulge in a cultural experience, this program promises to be enlightening and unforgettable.

Throughout the journey, participants will engage in multiple private hands-on indigo dyeing sessions. You will learn the complex process of making sukumo, the traditional Japanese compost method of producing indigo dye, which involves fermenting indigo leaves to create a natural dye. Additionally, you will explore various resist dyeing techniques such as stencil cutting and katazome (using rice paste to create detailed patterns), kasuri (a Japanese ikat technique known for its distinctive blurred designs), and shibori (an ancient tie-dye resist method producing exquisite organic patterns).

Participants will interact with a diverse range of individuals deeply connected to the art of indigo dyeing. This includes indigo farmers cultivating the plants, 'National Living Treasure' artisans recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovative young practitioners redefining traditional techniques, artists incorporating indigo into their works, and experts and collectors with a deep appreciation for indigo textiles.

The tour also includes visits to specialist indigo museums, galleries, and studios, showcasing remarkable design and craftsmanship. Attendees will benefit from insightful talks by artisans, offering an in-depth look into the history and evolution of indigo dyeing. Furthermore, there will be opportunities to purchase stunning indigo textiles and handcrafted items, each reflecting its creator's dedication and skill.

Beyond the hands-on indigo experiences, participants can immerse themselves in Japan's rich cultural heritage. This includes participating in a traditional tea ceremony, epitomizing the principles of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. Visits to magnificent temples and shrines, each featuring unique architecture and history, will be arranged. Cultural sites in Kyoto, Tokushima, and Kurume—cities renowned for their historical significance and beauty—will also be explored. We will discover Okayama's historic sites and gardens, followed by visits to Naoshima Island’s art museums.

Join us for an unparalleled experience of traditional Japanese culture and hospitality, in the company of a small group of like-minded textile and indigo enthusiasts. This journey is not merely about acquiring a new craft; it is about connecting with a rich cultural heritage and becoming part of a community united by a shared passion for indigo.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• 15-day tour in Japan, focusing on indigo, textiles, culture, and lifestyle
• Hands-on Experiences to learn more about Japanese Textiles, including the opportunity for a 2-day Kurume Kasuri apprenticeship workshop
• Museum Collections of Japanese Art and Craft
• Beppu Onsen Experience
• Be inspired by Japan's Markets, Gardens, Temples, Shrines, and other Cultural Experiences
• Food

We will be exploring Southern Japan and the textiles in this region. The trip will begin in Osaka. We will fly into Osaka and then travel by shinkansen to Fukura. ( Day trips from Osaka to Kyoto are only 1.5 hr to Kyoto/ 2 hours to Arimatsu)

• On Kyushu, we will visit Fukuoka, Beppu ( a geothermal onsen), the Craft Village of Yame, where we will stay in a Craft Inn that is all Indigo and experience indigo, shibori, kasuri weaving, and other crafts. Those interested will have the opportunity to experience a 2-day Kasuri apprenticeship where participants will create a Kurume Kasuri handkerchief featuring next year's zodiac sign. Experience yarn-tying, indigo dyeing, and weaving, the major steps of the Kurume Kasuri production process, on this short two-day program.
• Yame includes 3 Artisan Studios and offers 16 different experiences: https://en.yame.travel/event-tour/landing-experiences/2019/

From Yame, we travel to Beppu Onsen, Beppu is a city and spa resort. Set between Beppu Bay and volcanic mountains, it's home to more than 2,000 onsen (hot springs). The Kannawa Onsen district has facilities for bathing in nutrient-rich water, mud, and sand. The 8 Hells of Beppu—6 in Kannawa, 2 in outlying Shibaseki—are dramatic landscapes of thermal pools. To the west is Mount Tsurumi, accessible by cable car. Leaving Beppu, we travel on to Okayama and take a ferry to visit Hiroshima, Miyajima, and the Art island of Naoshima. After leaving Okayama, we will visit Takami Niime in Nisiwaki City. Next, we will travel to Tokushima. In Tokushima, we will visit the studio of Makikko Tokunaga for Sukumo Indigo exploration and Stitched shibori workshops. Makikko has a guesthouse where we will stay. In Tokushima, we will visit a Kakishibu studio, Awagami Papermaking, and hopefully I can arrange a visit to Buaisou and Watanabe studios.

Finally, our trip will end back in Osaka. We will spend 3 days in Osaka at either the beginning of the trip or the end, which will depend on the availability of unique experiences and accommodations.

Approximate cost of Trip: ($4000- $5000) - this should cover self pays and items I will be paying for for the group: YAME-2-day weaving apprenticeship (includes accommodations), Kyoto Rocketsu, Beppu Onsen, Hiroshima/ Miyajima Tour, Arimatsu Masterclass Shibori workshop, Tokushima Shibori workshop (4 days includes accommodations/food), Awagami Paper Factory workshop, 8 nights shared accommodations - does not include airfare from US, railpass, lunches, dinners, plus other events to be determined by availability The $700 Fee shown is a NONREFUNDABLE Deposit that secures your spot- balance will be due 60 days before departure (March 2027). All events planned on this trip will be listed as à la carte items and you will be able to pick and choose those you wish to participate in.

Final costs determined by YEN value in 2027