The Art of Kimono

• Yamagatacity

Gain exclusive access into one of the artisan studios of Tomihiro, one of the top 3 kimono producers in all of Japan that has been making some of the finest kimono in the world for over 26 generations.

Here you will be able to see how Tomihiro’s artisans produce their top-of-the-line kimono. Each artist makes the entire kimono from start to finish from the concept design, selection and dyeing of silk, and weaving each of the tens of thousands of delicate threads entirely by hand.

This experience will include a tour of their studio located in a beautiful renovated Japanese storehouse where you will meet the artists working here who will teach you about how they make their kimono from start to finish.  This includes a walk through their studio where you will be able to see multiple artisans making kimono at various stages in their completion including weaving each and every silk thread of these kimono entirely by hand on traditional looks hundreds of years old.

During this experience, you will also be able to try your hand at weaving a table coaster or dyeing your own silk product together with these master kimono artists and enjoy tea together after the tour of their facility.

After meeting the artisans and learning about the kimono they produce, you will then be able to go to their boutique store right in front of Yamagata City where they will dress you into Tomihiro kimono that you can wear around Yamagata City for a day.  Your guide will also recommend various spots that offer beautiful backgrounds to take photos with your kimono.

Note that a minimum of two people is required to run this experience.

An english speaking local guide will be with you at the studio and the boutique store to help you communicate with the tomihiro staff and help with any questions you may have.