“Kosoen”

At the Kosoen workshop, visitors can purchase and observe the production of indigo-dyed products, and experience indigo dyeing themselves.

Indigo dyeing is one of the most traditional and satisfying experiences you can get in Japan. I had already tried a similar experience in Tokushima Prefecture on the island of Shikoku and I loved it, so I was excited to find another workshop less than an hour and a half away from central Tokyo.

The scent of indigo fills the air as you open the workshop door

In the center, there are vessels about 1.3 meters deep filled with indigo dye liquid and you can see the artisans working at the back of the workshop, accompanied by the pleasant sound of water. While chemical dyes and substances are commonly used today, Kosoen is dedicated to the traditional Japanese techniques passed down since the Edo period.

There are display corners lined with beautiful indigo-dyed garments, and the entire workshop felt like a magical space filled with the lively energy of the artisans. The artisans skillfully moved from one vessel to another, pouring all their technique, strength, and focus into the fabric they were dyeing. I had the opportunity to experience indigo dyeing, and it was sometimes hard to concentrate on my work because I was so captivated by the activities around me, however, the moments spent experiencing this craft alongside the artisans were truly precious.

The reason why artisans dye with their bare hands every day

It is because natural indigo is completely harmless to the body. On the contrary, items dyed with natural indigo are said to have sterilizing, antibacterial, and UV protection benefits, gently protecting those who wear the indigo-dyed items.

As I watched the artisan's work, I noticed that their arms were stained blue up to their elbows. It was an impressive sight and showed a testament to their dedication to the art.

During the workshop, I was given gloves and an apron. Even so, I got some indigo on my arm, but it washed off easily to my surprise. Through this experience, I learned another unique characteristic of indigo: unlike other dyeing techniques and materials, once fabric is dyed with indigo, it does not fade. I was even more impressed that indigo is gentle on humans and the environment, yet strong as a fabric dye.

Using only natural ingredients to create indigo dye

Creating the indigo dye liquid is referred to as "Aidate". The dye liquid is made by fermenting indigo leaves called "Sukumo," which is then mixed with Japanese sake (Japanese rice wine), lime, and other ingredients and fermented again. The "Sukumo" used at Kosoen has been produced over a year under the guidance of a nationally recognized, Awa indigo manufacturing technique holder in Tokushima Prefecture.

It was fascinating to learn that indigo is made up of microorganisms that use sake as a nutrient source. In the workshop, there are many vessels, and one of the artisans carefully inspects each vessel before selecting the one we could use for dyeing. He explained that they do not use the same vessel every day because the microorganisms would wear out, and the dyeing process would not work effectively. It was touching to hear his care for these tiny organisms, and it was truly humbling and wonderful to create an art in harmony with nature!

“Indigo dyeing experience” to feel the Japanese tradition

Under the careful guidance of skilled indigo dyeing artisans, you can experience dyeing with the natural indigo lye fermentation method. This time, we dyed a cotton stole. The experience of dyeing using only materials derived from natural resources was valuable, allowing us to appreciate the greatness of nature. Additionally, the staff is very kind and guides you in English so you can feel at ease.

When I experienced dyeing in Tokushima, I dyed a handkerchief. For this time, to take it up a notch, I chose a longer cotton stole. Watching the artisans, it looked easy, but in reality, it required quite a lot of strength to squeeze the liquid out of the fabric, and I had to repeat this process several times. The most challenging part was unfolding the fabric inside the vessel to ensure it dyed evenly.  I had to concentrate very hard on my hands because the indigo inside was dark and I could not see anything. However, with time I gradually got the hang of it. Seeing the final result was incredibly satisfying.

Experience Fee:

Handkerchief: ¥2,750 / Bandana: ¥3,300 / Cotton Stole: ¥6,600 / T-shirt: ¥7,700

*Please note that prices and times are subject to change, so please check with the workshop for details.

Shop

At Kosoen, besides clothing, various items such as interior decorations are dyed and sold. The items on display feature very modern and sophisticated designs while using traditional techniques, and each is uniquely stylish!

The charm of traditional indigo dyeing has continued since the Edo period

This indigo-dyeing experience allowed us to think about many aspects of our lives today. We could appreciate Japan's history, traditional culture, the greatness of nature, environmental issues, the joy of careful work, and the passion of Japanese artisans. We encourage everyone to try it firsthand!