tourism

Kasuri is a weaving technique where pre-dyed yarn is used to create patterns in the warp or weft threads, or both. This technique, also known as ikat, is said to have originated in India and spread throughout the world, coming to Japan through Okinawa. Kurume Kasuri was invented around the year 1800 by a young girl named Den Inoue, a weaver from the former Kurume feudal domain (what is now an area in southern Fukuoka Prefecture that contains towns such as Hirokawa, Chikugo, and Yame). Though there used to be over 300 Kurume Kasuri weavers, today less than 20 remain. These makers employ a wide range of techniques, from traditional hand weaving and indigo dyeing, to production that uses power shuttle looms — this diversity in production a defining characteristic of the modern Kurume Kasuri craft.photo: Koichiro Fujimoto

Founded in 1948, Shimogawa Textile is a Kurume Kasuri weaver (orimoto) specializing in chemical dyeing and machine weaving — the last remaining orimoto left in Yame City. With about 20 small-width shuttle looms from the 1950s, Shimogawa Textile creates unique fabrics with a soft texture that feels almost as if they are hand-woven. Third-generation owner Kyozo Shimogawa carries on the traditional craft traditions of Kurume Kasuri while experimenting with the new possibilities by collaborating with brands and designers both in Japan and abroad. With the motto, “our factory is a studio, our work is broadcast live,” the Kurume Kasuri maker shares its activities through social media, and also actively organizes factory visits, training programs, and artists in residence from across Japan and overseas.

In the first half of the tour, enjoy a lecture by Mr. Shimogawa and a factory visit. In the lecture, learn about the fundamentals of Kurume Kasuri through photos and videos, including production processes that take place outside the factory. You will also be able to see how Kurume Kasuri patterns have changed over the years, and fabrics created through collaborations with designers and artists from the Netherlands, Finland and other countries. Afterwards take a tour of the weaving factory, filled with 80-year-old Toyota power shuttle looms that are still in operation — a precious relic of industrialization. On weekdays, see the looms in action amidst the bustling noises of the machines; on Saturdays, soak in Mr. Shimogawa’s explanations inside the quiet factory.photo:Koichiro Fujimoto

Experience the soft textures of Shimogawa Textile’s Kurume Kasuri designs for yourself. After choosing your favorite design from a wide selection of fabrics, such as plain, striped, checkered, or kasuri, make the scarf tassels yourself. As needles or thread are not necessary, the experience is suitable for all — even elementary school children and those that might not be particularly crafty. On a sunny day, sit on the engawa,　the porch of a traditional Japanese house, and enjoy a relaxing moment with Kurume Kasuri.