Private Tokamachi Kimono Factory Tour, Dyeing Workshop and Soba Inari Experience

Tokamachi’s long, heavy snowy winters have shaped the way people make, eat, and live here. As part of Japan’s Snow Country Heritage, the city is known for its kimono craftsmanship and hegi soba. This half-day experience brings these local traditions together, taking you behind the scenes at an artisan kimono workshop before ending with a taste of Tokamachi’s specialty, soba inari. Meet the staff at Aoyagi Co., Ltd. and begin with an introduction to Tokamachi’s kimono culture and the workshop’s rare integrated production system. Unlike many kimono makers, which handle different stages in separate locations, this long-established manufacturer brings much of the process together under one roof. During the 90-minute factory tour, see how a kimono takes shape, from design and stenciling to dye blending, brush dyeing, and hand embroidery. You’ll also see hon-oke shibori, a rare form of bucket tie-dyeing, as artisans demonstrate their skills up close. Next, try traditional dyeing under the guidance of the artisans. Choose between two workshops. With Yuzen dyeing, use stencils and brushes to layer colors and create a pattern on a handkerchief or tote bag. With shibori, dip an artisan-prepared handkerchief into a hot dye bath and watch a pattern emerge. After the workshop, relax with Japanese tea and Tokamachi’s specialty, soba inari. These sweet-and-savory tofu pouches are filled with hegi soba noodles. As you enjoy this local snack, discover the surprising connection between kimono and soba. Funori seaweed gives hegi soba its smooth texture and was also traditionally used to starch kimono threads. Bringing these traditions together, this experience offers a closer look at the Snow Country culture that has shaped Tokamachi. Watch artisans at work, create your own dyed piece, and taste soba inari while discovering the local traditions behind both.