A Journey Through Indigo: An Intimate Textile Tour of Japan

May 2027 · Curated by Aya Fiber Studio
15 Days | Small Group | Deep Cultural Immersion
Deposit: $700 (Nonrefundable)
Estimated Cost: $4,000–$5,000 USD (excludes airfare & rail pass)

I’m thrilled to invite you on an exclusive, small-group adventure through Japan—a thoughtfully curated Textile & Indigo Tour designed especially for fiber artists and creative souls. This is not your typical tourist itinerary, but rather a rich, hands-on journey into Japan’s deep-rooted textile traditions, natural dye practices, and vibrant contemporary craft culture.

Together, we’ll travel across Southern Japan, from the historic streets of Fukuoka to the thermal springs of Beppu, the craft villages of Kyushu, and the artist islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Our path is designed to immerse you in the techniques, spirit, and beauty of Japanese indigo dyeing and textile artistry.

🌿 Highlights Include:

Multiple private, hands-on workshops in shibori, katazome, kasuri weaving, sukumo indigo dyeing, and kakishibu (persimmon dyeing)
Learn the complete process of natural indigo dyeing, including the traditional sukumo fermentation method
Meet National Living Treasure artisans, cutting-edge young makers, and dedicated indigo farmers
Two-day Kurume Kasuri Apprenticeship: Tie yarn, dye with indigo, and weave your own handkerchief featuring the Zodiac sign of the year
Visits to Indigo Studios, Museums, and Artisan Workshops, including Makiko Tokunaga, Buaisou, Watanabe, and Awagami Papermaking
Stay in a traditional Indigo Guesthouse in Yame and soak in the culture with local craft experiences
Optional visits to temples, shrines, gardens, and hidden gems across Tokushima, Kyoto, Okayama, Miyajima, Hiroshima, and Naoshima
A rejuvenating stay at Beppu Onsen, a renowned geothermal spa town with over 2,000 hot springs
Final group days in Osaka to reflect, shop, and soak up Japan’s vibrant city life

🧳 What’s Included:

Indigo and shibori workshops (Yame, Arimatsu, Tokushima, and more)
8 nights shared accommodation ( other nights self pay- shared or private rooms)
Entrance fees to curated events, galleries, and workshops
Select meals and artisan-led experiences (see full breakdown in final itinerary)

Not included:
Airfare, JR Rail Pass, some lunches/dinners, and other à la carte options (customizable)

✨ Designed for Artists, Created for Connection

This trip is not a fully guided tour, but a “travel with me” experience—perfect for adventurous, flexible creatives who want a blend of planned workshops and personal discovery days. You’ll receive a full itinerary with recommended accommodations, and you’ll have the freedom to pick and choose from the à la carte activities based on your interest and energy.

Please note: You must be physically fit and prepared for long walking days (10,000–17,000 steps), stairs, and slopes. This is a fast-paced, immersive journey—you’ll see and do a lot!

👥 Who Should Apply?

This is a small, intimate group experience, open only to:

Former Aya Fiber Studio students, OR
Those planning to spend at least one week with me in the studio before the trip
All applicants will be interviewed to ensure the group dynamic stays positive, open, and drama-free. This is essential to preserving the joyful spirit of our journey—no “Debbie Downers,” please! ✨

📅 Important Dates:

Nonrefundable deposit ($700) secures your spot
Final payment due 60 days before departure: March 2027
Final cost may adjust based on 2027 exchange rates and inflation

Let’s explore indigo’s soul together—its rich history, its artisans, and its place in Japan’s culture. This trip is a rare opportunity to go far beyond the tourist trail and enter the world of master dyers, textile innovators, and sacred traditions.

If you’re ready for a life-changing journey through Japan’s creative heart, I can’t wait to travel with you.

👉 To express interest or reserve your place, email me directly or contact Aya Fiber Studio.
Spaces are extremely limited.

Japan Indigo and Textile Travel 2027