Kaga Yuzen, along with Kyoto Yuzen from Kyoto and Edo Yuzen from Tokyo, is known as one of the 'Three Great Yuzen'. This coveted style of kimono is sought after by many women in Japan who dream of the chance to wear it at least once in their lifetime. Fabric-enthusiasts love Kaga Yuzen for its authentic, fully hand-drawn dyeing technique made by artisans without the additions of any embroidery or similar embellishments.
Miyazaki Yuzensai is said to be the founder of Kaga Yuzen, hailing all the way from Ishikawa Prefecture. In his later years, he joined the Kaga Domain's official dyer 'Tarodaya' and laid the foundations for Kaga Yuzen. Tsurumi Dyeing and Craft Decoration is the place to get up close with the traditions of 'Tarodaya'.
Step inside the studio to find a man-made “river” used for dyes, allowing guests to see the Kaga Yuzen process from start to finish. Here you’ll enjoy the chance to shadow Kaga Yuzen artist Kunichika Tsurumi in using gold maki, finely crushed gold leaf to design a one-of-a-kind tote bag or placemat. At the end of the experience, participants can try on a Kaga Yuzen kimono snaps in an impromptu mini photoshoot.
Highlights
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See the coveted Kaga Yuzen process up close in a studio complete with a dyeing area and an artificial river.
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Try pressing find gold powder into surfaces like placemats.
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After the experience, put on a Kaga Yuzen kimono for a commemorative photo.