Aizumicho Historical Museum Travel Guide

Every prefecture has its own local craft specialities and Tokushima is no different. Since the tenth century, the people were historically masters of indigo dying, creating the kind of deep, rich blues you’ve probably seen on many a Japanese kimono and woodblock print.

This museum stands as a testament to that history, and is located inside an old dyer’s house and factory. It displays a range of the tools used in the process, and completed articles with the signature deep blues of the traditional, natural dye. You’ll even have the chance to try your hand at the process yourself!

The whole thing takes a long time to complete, as the dried leaves of the indigo plant have to be steeped in water for over three months, but by the time you arrive all of the prep work is done for you. All you have to do is follow the instructions to make a highly-personal souvenir.