Roketsu indigo dyeing
Spend a fun morning or afternoon learning how to dye material in the traditional Japanese style at Yamamoto Roketsu Dyeing Studio in Kyoto
Roketsu is a traditional method of dyeing cloth unique to Kyoto. Using ancient techniques, wax is applied to the fabric blocking indigo dyes to form elaborate, intricate designs of a beautiful blue shade.
InsideJapan are delighted to offer a roketsu dyeing experience at the only studio in Japan where you can try your hand at the whole process from start to finish. Under the instruction of a family of crafts people with over 50 years experience, you don't need to be an artist to create a fine looking souvenir. Choose to create a handkerchief, bandana, t-shirt or noren (Japanese curtains) and then select a design from hundreds of different stencils or design your own.
The first step is to apply hot wax to the fabric using a brush to trace through the stencil. When this has cooled it's time to dye the fabric. You'll be given protective clothing in order to stir your piece in a vat of natural indigo dye. The final stage is to iron the fabric and seal in the design (who knew you'd be ironing on holiday!)
When to go: Roketsu Dyeing is available all year round.
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
A quick note about our experiences: Our experiences are designed to be part of a complete, tailor-made travel package and are not available to book individually. This allows us to ensure every detail – from accommodation to transport – is perfectly coordinated for you. If you're interested in one of these experiences, we'd love to help you build a full itinerary around it!
Interested in this Experience? It is included in this tour:
-
Contemplate your reason for being on a philosophical journey around Japan.
Japanese Ikigai and the Path to Happiness
Find new meaning in Japan's old ways on a special cultural trip that explores Japanese philosophical concepts from wabi sabi to the bushido samurai code and ikigai.
Tour Gallery
Other Traditional arts & textiles experiences
View more >Ikebana flower arranging
Discover the finer points of this unique Japanese style of flower arranging with a lesson with a licensed ikebana teacher
Kimono wearing
The Japanese kimono is perhaps the most exquisite national dress on earth and a real treat to try on.
Pottery class
Get your hands dirty whilst learning some of the techniques of Japanese 'yakimomo' pottery.

Japanese embroidery class
Hone your embroidery skills by attending this private class with one of Japan's leading exponents of 'nuido'

Calligraphy class
Take your first steps on the road to becoming a master calligrapher with a 'shodo' class.

Origami
Learn to fold paper like a pro... well like an elementary school kid really... with this beginners class in origami.