Beginner Sewing Machine Workshop with Aims Watts from Indy Bindy
Curious about sewing but not sure where to start? This beginner-friendly workshop is designed to help you build confidence using a sewing machine in a relaxed, small-group setting.

With only 4 participants, you’ll receive plenty of individual guidance with time to ask all your questions and get help as you go as Aims calmly walks you through the fundamentals step by step.

What you’ll learn:

• Understanding your machine
• How to thread your sewing machine
• Winding and inserting a bobbin
• Basic stitches
• Sewing straight lines and curves
• Turning corners
• Simple construction techniques
• What to do if things go wrong
• The confidence to use your machine at home

What you’ll make:
By the end of the session, you’ll complete your own drawstring bag using your choice of 4 curated cotton prints.

Who it’s for:
Perfect for complete beginners or anyone looking to refresh their sewing basics. No prior experience needed.

What to bring:
We recommend bringing your own sewing machine so you can get familiar with the one you’ll be using at home. If you do, please make sure to bring all essential parts:

• Power cord
• Foot pedal
• Bobbin case (if your machine has one)
• Bobbin
• Needle

(If you don’t have a machine, let us know in advance so that you can borrow one of ours.)

Workshop details:
📍 Location: Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa
🗓️ Date: Sunday 24th May 2026
⏰ Time: 10:00-12:30
👥 Capacity: 4 participants

What’s included:

• All materials and sewing tools
• Fabric options (4 cotton prints to choose from)
• Thread and cord for your bag
• Step-by-step instruction from an experienced sewist and sewing community founder
• Your finished handmade bag to take home

Please note: Due to the small class size and hands-on nature of this workshop, tickets are limited.
Secure your spot and start your sewing journey with confidence.

This eight day craft retreat invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in Japanese textiles and making traditions. We move through Tokyo at a gentle pace, balancing hands-on workshops with time to wander, stitch, rest and notice the details that often get missed when travelling fast. You will stay in beautiful accommodation with your own private room, giving you space to fully settle in.

Throughout the week you will learn directly from skilled Japanese artisans through workshops including indigo and shibori indigo dyeing, sashiko, temari ball making, katazome resist dyeing, traditional weaving and kintsugi. We also share some of our favourite neighbourhoods, textile studios and craft shops that continue to inspire our own creative practices.
This retreat is about connection to place, creativity and community. If you are craving colour, inspiration and a slower, more meaningful way to experience Tokyo, we would love to welcome you on this journey.
See you in Tokyo!

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting plant materials and other items
• Testing cyanotype on paper
• Making a cyanotype fabric swatch
• Sewing your pin

Only a little sewing experience is required (straight stitch), making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted pin in a presentation box, ready to keep or gift to someone special.

The cyanotype process uses chemicals which many stain hands and clothes, Gloves and aprons will be provided. 

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
Timing: 2.5 hours
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Planning and designing  your unique earrings
  
• Selecting from a wide range of semi-precious beads
  
• Wrapping your beads with fine silver wire to form a securely wrapped bead
  

No experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning pair of handcrafted earrings in a presentation box, ready to gift to someone special.

Sharp craft metal snips and pliers are used throughout this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
Timing: 3 hours
Cost per person: ¥7500
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting your sakura mould, taken from a real cherry blossom tree
• Choosing your pendant shape
• Creating your pendant from precious metal clay
• Oxidising, polishing and burnishing your final piece

No jewellery experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted pendant on a silver chain presented in a gift box ready to gift to someone special.

Sharp tool and a gas torch will be  used in this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 1
Maximum number of participants : 4
Suitable for children: 10+
Timing: 3 hours
Cost per person: ¥16500
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting from a curated range of gorgeous vintage kimono fabrics 
  
• Designing your unique pattern/ image
• Using the kimekomi technique—tucking fabric neatly into grooves to create a smooth, elegant finish 

No sewing experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted bauble in a presentation box, ready to hang on your tree or gift to someone special.

Sharp craft knives are used throughout this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
1 adult per 2 children under 10
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 5
Suitable for children: 8+
Timing: 1.5 hours
Boards will be pre-cut . Children will not be using craft knives in this workshop.
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea, coffee and juice included

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting from a curated range of gorgeous vintage kimono fabrics 
  
• Designing your unique pattern 
  
• Using the kimekomi technique—tucking fabric neatly into grooves to create a smooth, elegant finish 
  

No sewing experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted decor ball, ready to display or gift to someone special.

Sharp craft knives are used throughout this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Suitable for children: 10+
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

STEP 1: Decide on the workshop and invite your group members
STEP 2: Agree 2-3 possible dates/ times with your group
STEP 3: Fill in the form below or contact Victoria to book your private workshop
STEP 4: Victoria will respond with confirmation and a payment link 
STEP 5: Pay for your workshop online

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 5
1 adult per 2 children
Suitable for children: 8+
Timing: 1.5 hours
Kimekomi balls will be pre-cut . Children will not be using craft knives in this workshop.
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea, coffee and juice included

Time: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Perfect for:

• Textile lovers
• Upcycling enthusiasts
• Anyone curious about kimono

Please note: This is not a kimono dressing experience. If you’d like to try wearing kimono, I can arrange it as an optional add-on to your tour.

Location: Tour begins at Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa

Welcome & Inspiration

• Enjoy welcome tea and a traditional Japanese snack
• Learn about different types of kimono, their parts, accessories, and how to shop for them
• Visit 2–3 inspiring spots where kimono are reimagined in creative ways

Lunch
Savor a delicious local lunch — included in your tour.
Shopping
Explore 3–5 carefully selected kimono shops for unique finds and hidden treasures.

Tour Details:

• Available Thursdays and Fridays only
• Group size: 2–10 people

Time: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Perfect for:

• Crafters
• Textile enthusiasts
• Upcyclers
• Anyone curious about kimono

Please note: This is not a kimono dressing experience. If you’d like to try wearing kimono, I can arrange it as an optional add-on to your tour.

Location: Tour begins at Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa

Morning

• Enjoy a welcome tea and a traditional Japanese snack
• Create your own kimekomi bauble in a hands-on workshop

Lunch
Dine like a local — lunch is included in the tour.
Shopping & Inspiration
Visit 3–5 kimono shops and inspiring locations that showcase creative ways kimono are being reimagined today.

Tour Details:

• Available Thursdays and Fridays only
• Group size: 2–6 people

Time: 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Perfect for:

• Textile enthusiasts
• Upcyclers
• Anyone curious about kimono

Please note: This is not a kimono dressing experience. If you’d like to try wearing kimono, I can arrange it as an optional add-on to your tour.

Location: Tour begins at Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa

Welcome

• Enjoy welcome tea and a traditional Japanese snack
• Learn about kimono types, their parts, and accessories in a short presentation

Shopping
Explore 3–5 kimono shops featuring beautiful vintage and modern pieces.

Tour Details:

• Available Thursdays and Fridays only
• Group size: 2–10 people

Step into the cozy, creative atmosphere of Studio Biku and learn the traditional Japanese craft of kimekomi while making your very own beautiful fabric-covered Christmas bauble.

In this hands-on workshop, you’ll be guided through the process of:

• Selecting from a curated range of gorgeous vintage kimono fabrics 
• Designing your unique pattern 
• Using the kimekomi technique—tucking fabric neatly into grooves to create a smooth, elegant finish 

No sewing experience is required, making this the perfect workshop for beginners and seasoned makers alike. You’ll leave with a stunning handcrafted bauble in a presentation box, ready to hang on your tree or gift to someone special.

Sharp craft knives are used throughout this workshop. 

Along the way, enjoy Studio Biku’s warm, creative environment—a space where community, craft, and relaxation meet.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
Timing: 2.5 hours
Suitable for children: 10+ (Family workshops are also available- see below)
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea and coffee included

The studio is located on the second floor of a two storey building with no elevator access. 
Bike parking is available and coin parking is 30 seconds away.

Minimum number of participants : 2
Maximum number of participants : 6
1 adult per 2 children
Timing: 1.5 hours
Suitable for children: 8+ 
Cost per person: ¥6000
Tea, coffee and juice included

Boards will be pre-cut . Children will not be using craft knives in this workshop.

Once a month in Shimokitazawa, my studio fills with quiet energy, the rustle of thread, soft conversation, and the gentle rhythm of needlework. Gather and Mend isn’t a class—it’s a communal moment of slow stitching, connection, and creative repair.

Each meetup has its own rhythm and theme, and this month we’re turning our attention to those well-loved sweaters that need a little care. We’ll be exploring needle felting as a technique for mending holes in knitwear—a simple, satisfying way to bring life and warmth back to your garments.

Never tried felting before? No problem. This is a casual, welcoming space where beginners are encouraged, and perfection is not the point.
As always, Gather and Mend is about more than the repair—it’s about making time for yourself, connecting with others, and sharing the joy of handwork. You can bring your own project or dive into felting with us. Tea, conversation, and a sense of calm included.
Details:
🧵 Focus: Felting holes in sweaters
📍 Where: Studio Biku, Shimokitazawa
🕰️ When: Friday 4th July 10:00-12:00
💰 Cost: ¥500 donation to the Studio Fund (donate on the day)

What Is a Little Free Library?
A Little Free Library is a small, publicly accessible book exchange where people can take a book or leave a book. Some are simple wooden boxes on posts; others are creatively made from repurposed furniture, mailboxes, or even old cabinets. What they all have in common is their mission to inspire a love of reading and build community through sharing.
The movement began in 2009 and has since grown into a global phenomenon, with over 200,000 registered libraries around the world.

Initial Decisions: Things to Consider Before You Start Your Library
Before you dive into setting up your own Little Free Library (LFL), here are a few important questions to ask yourself:

• Where will your LFL be placed? Ideally, it should be accessible, safe, and easy to find.
• Is everyone in the family on board? It’s great to have shared enthusiasm, especially if the library will be in your yard.
• Do you have time for upkeep? Admin tasks like restocking, tidying, and weatherproofing don’t take long but are important.
• Are you okay spending a little money to get started? Between the box, plaque, and supplies, there may be some upfront costs.
• How do you feel about strangers dropping by? Your LFL might attract curious passersby—hopefully in a lovely way!

Step 1: Register as a Steward
To become an official Little Free Library steward, you’ll need to purchase a charter plaque. This makes your library part of the global network and gives it a unique number and a place on the LFL global map.

• Register and order your plaque here: littlefreelibrary.org/start
• Delivery to Japan takes about two weeks.
  
  

Step 2: Set Up Your Library
You can build your own LFL box or purchase one. I bought mine from Amazon Japan, which worked out cheaper than ordering from the .com site due to duties and shipping.
Here are a few options I found:

• Single shelf / single door
• Single shelf / double door
• Double shelf / single door

Once you’ve got your box:

• Waterproof it: I used this sealant, added adhesive felt door seal, and caulked all the joints.
• Decorate it however you like—paint, stickers, stencils—it’s your creative space!
• Choose your placement: It must be on private property or somewhere you have permission to use. Avoid placing it on public land without checking local rules.
  

PLEASE NOTE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Step 3: Gather Your Books
Start by sorting through your own shelves and gathering books you’re ready to pass on. You can also include other small freebies like:

• Bookmarks
  
• Stickers or washi tape
• A guestbook and pen for visitors to leave notes

I also designed a custom Studio Biku stamp using Canva to add a little charm to donated books as they arrive.

Step 4: Map Your Library
Once your plaque arrives and your library is set up, it’s time to make it official!
Log back into your steward account and:

• Add your LFL to the map
• Write a short description of your library (themes, audience, etc.)
  

This helps people nearby discover your LFL and builds awareness.

Step 5: Spread the Word
Your LFL is ready—now tell the world!

• Share photos and updates on Instagram, neighborhood apps, or local Facebook groups.
  
• Let friends, family, and neighbors know it’s open.
• Encourage people to take a book, leave a book, or just stop by to browse.
  
  

Final Thoughts
Setting up a Little Free Library is one of those small, joyful projects that brings surprising connection. Whether you’re sharing your favorite reads or giving forgotten books a second life, your LFL is a gift to your neighbourhood. If you start one, I’d love to see it so please share your photos or tag me so we can celebrate together!

Our next Gather and Mend is open for booking and I’d love for you to join us!

It’s a relaxed, creative gathering where we repair our clothes, share stories, drink coffee, and enjoy lunch together at a local café. Whether you're new to mending or have been stitching for years, everyone is welcome.
We help each other with simple repairs and share tips and mending books—just bring something to mend and your curiosity.

Looking forward to spending a lovely morning slow stitching with you!
Tap the image above to watch the video!

Mottainai, the regret of wasting things with life still left in them, is the core of my being. Since childhood I have saved, collected, repurposed and re-imagined items I find useful or interesting. And for years in Tokyo we've had a family Mottainai Box which is regularly placed  outside our house when it's full of things we no longer need. I hope with all my heart that this passing along of things has inspired others in my community (as well as my kids) to consider new ways of discarding things that no longer serve us.

With this core thought in mind (it's always there) and Inspired by my friend Ushka from NEKO NEKO STAYS, the new stage in my mottainai service is to set up a Little Free Library at my studio in Shimo-Kitazawa, Tokyo.

It's taken a few weeks of planning, ordering the right library box for my needs, buying solar lighting, designing decorative stickers and a book stamp and it has now almost all arrived, and is now open!
I'll be sharing more about the installation over on Instagram and YouTube in the hope to pass along the inspiration Ushka gave me to get it going.

Pippin was "The best boi!" who inspired Ushka to open the doors to Pippin's Inn, a cat-themed short-term-rental for cat lovers located in Sangubashi close to Yoyogi Park. Featuring artwork by Erica Ward, whose beautiful work I stock in my studio shop, the Little Free Library at Pippins Inn is dedicated to Pippin's memory. (Erica also designed the book stamps for Pippin's Inn and Neko Neko Inn as well as the portrait on my own shop card).

You can find out about Ushka's other ventures with her business partner and friend Sharla below.

NEKO NEKO STAYS
Pippin's Inn- Sangubashi
Neko Neko Inn- Sangubashi
Neko Neko Home- Setagaya-ku

NEKO NEKO POST
For (mostly) cat  themed stationery from Japan

If you were captivated by the kimono rescue in Episode 1, get ready for even more discoveries! Episode 2 takes us back inside the fascinating abandoned house in Tokyo, where I uncovered a wealth of beautiful and useful items. This video is from the same visit as the first, but there was so much to explore that I had to split it into two parts!

What's Inside?
In this episode, you'll see:

• More exquisite kimono finds, each with its own story to tell (including a wedding kimono)
• A variety of other intriguing objects, giving us a glimpse into the lives of those who once lived here.
• A closer look at the hidden corners of the house, revealing even more of its secrets.

A Glimpse into the Past
Each item I found offers a piece of the puzzle, helping us understand the history of this place and the people connected to it. The delicate fabrics of the kimono, the craftsmanship of everyday objects – they all speak to a rich and vibrant past.

The Adventure Continues...
But the story doesn't end here! Next week, I'll be sharing a truly special experience: the purification blessing of the rescued kimono at a local shrine. It's a moving cultural tradition that you won't want to miss.

Watch Episode 2 Now!
[Insert YouTube Video Here]

What was your favorite find in Episode 2? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
See you next time,
Victoria x

Tucked away in an abandoned Akiya—a house filled with memories, dust, and forgotten treasures—was a beautiful collection of vintage kimono, waiting to be rediscovered. During a recent visit, I was invited to take as many as I wanted, and what I found was truly special.
This home is now being lovingly restored, and many of its pieces feel like time capsules from a life once fully lived.
This video takes you along for the journey. It’s a longer one, perfect for a slow moment with a cup of tea—or save it to your watchlist for when you’re ready to explore.

In a world where fast fashion dominates, mending is a simple way to extend the life of your clothes and reduce waste. I’m excited to introduce MEND, a workshop focused on quick and easy clothing repairs, where I’ll show you how to fix and restore your favorite garments by hand.

This hands-on workshop focuses on practical, quick, and easy mending techniques that anyone can learn. Whether you have a tear in your tee, a hole in your jeans, or a stain on your shirt, I’ll teach you the simple skills to fix them yourself.

What You’ll Learn
In this workshop, you’ll learn:

1. Basic introduction to visible mending- Getting started with the equipment, make a swatch of practice stitches to use later
2. Simple fixes: How to fix a small hole or cover a stain using visible stitching, a quick and effective technique for repairs.
3. Reinforcement Patch: How to apply a fabric patch to reinforce areas of wear or cover a larger hole, ensuring your garments stay strong and durable.

Included in the Workshop
You’ll receive a basic mending kit with all the tools you need in the class and to continue your mending at home, including needles, thread, fabric scraps, scissors and more.
To take part in the workshop, participants are asked to purchase a drink from Communita Cafe.

Details
Saturday 17th May 2025
Responsible Marche in Meguro
Impact HUB Tokyo
2-11-3 Meguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo

¥3000
Includes a mending kit to take away with you
(Please purchase a drink from the Cafe to take part)

Session 1: 11:00-12.15
Session 2: 12:15-13:30

All materials will be provided. No experience is necessary—just come ready to learn and get creative.
Spaces are limited, so sign up today and join me for a hands-on session of mending and creativity.

Why Mending Matters
Mending isn’t just about fixing clothes—it’s a way to slow down and care for the things you already have. Instead of tossing out items when they get damaged, mending helps you extend their life and reduce waste. It’s a simple practice that helps you save money and keeps your clothes in use for longer.

Come Along
Rediscover the value in what you already own. With a few simple stitches, you can bring your clothes back to life.

What a beautiful morning we had on April 4th at Studio Biku, right in the heart of Shimo-Kitazawa. Gather & Mend was never meant to be a workshop — just a gentle, welcoming space to sit together, drink tea, and quietly mend the clothes we love.

From 10 to 12, the studio filled with the soft sounds of snipping threads, gentle conversation, and the occasional burst of laughter. Some folks brought well-worn jeans, others a favourite sweater with a tiny stain or some well-worn socks to darn — each piece carried its own little story, stitched back together with care.

There’s something special about slowing down in good company, needles in hand and no pressure to perform. Just time to connect — with our things, with ourselves, and with each other.

After our slow stitchy morning, we took a short stroll over to Sidewalk Coffee at the Mustard Hotel. Good coffee, tasty lunch, and more time to chat — the perfect way to wrap up a sweet and simple day of gentle making and shared moments.

These are the kinds of gatherings that remind me why I do what I do — quiet, thoughtful, low-key joy. If you missed this one, don’t worry. There will be more. Bring your mending pile and your stories. There’s always a seat for you at the table.
Until next time,
Victoria x

In a world of fast fashion and disposable trends, Gather & Mend is a refreshing invitation to slow down, connect, and care for the clothes we already own. This new community event brings people together to repair and refresh their wardrobes, fostering both creativity and sustainability on the first Friday of every month.

At Gather & Mend, participants can try out basic mending techniques, share skills, and breathe new life into their favorite garments. Whether it’s darning a sock, patching up a beloved pair of jeans, or adding decorative stitching to a worn-out sweater, the event encourages thoughtful repair over replacement.
More than just a practical workshop, Gather & Mend is about community—sharing stories, ideas, and a collective commitment to reducing waste. It's a space where sustainability meets creativity, proving that small stitches can make a big impact.

Join us for an upcoming Gather & Mend session and rediscover the joy of making things last!
The event is free, with a suggested donation of ¥500 to cover tea and coffee and use of the space. Spots are limited, so please book in advance.

Gather & Mend sessions take place on the first Friday of every month at 10:00-12:00.

Is this a workshop?
No, this is a creative gathering where we will teach techniques to each other, chat, share ideas and mindfully fix our clothing.
Do you provide tools and materials?
Tools and materials are not provided, Please bring an item of clothing to work on and everything you need for your project (scissors, thread, needle).
What happens if I book a spot and can't make it?
There are only 6 spots available each month, so please be mindful when booking. Let Victoria know as soon as you would like to cancel so we can try to fill your spot.
When do I pay my donation for the event?
You can donate your ¥500 on the day of the Gather & Mend event.
Can I bring food into the studio?
Cookies, cakes and snacks to share with others are welcome. There are no plates or forks available. We will be finished before lunch time, so you can visit one of the many lunch spots in Shimokitazawa after the event finishes.
Can I bring a friend or my child?
Please book a ticket for your friend/ child. The studio is not set up for children under 8.
Where is the studio?
Find the access information to Studio Biku here.

WHERE: Nakai/ Ochiai Stations, Tokyo
WHEN: 3rd weekend in February

Imagine walking through a quiet neighborhood in Tokyo… but suddenly, the streets come alive with color! Silk, cotton, and intricate patterns dance in the breeze. This is Some no Komichi, a festival that celebrates Tokyo’s deep history of traditional dyeing!
Today, we’re exploring the Some no Komichi festival in Nakai, Tokyo—a hidden gem where artisans and history lovers come together to celebrate the beauty of hand-dyed textiles. If you love crafts, natural dyeing, and Japanese culture, you’re going to love this!
Some no Komichi, which means 'Dyeing Alley,' takes place every year in late February in Nakai, a neighborhood once famous for its textile industry. During the Edo and Showa periods, this area was home to many dyeing workshops, and even today, you can find traces of that history.

This festival started in 2011 to revive and showcase the art of traditional dyeing, which was slowly disappearing. And now, it’s one of the most unique cultural events in Tokyo!
One of the most breathtaking sights is the River Gallery. These long, hand-dyed fabrics, called 'tanmono,' are hung over the Myoshoji river, just like artisans used to do when drying their work. The colours and patterns reflect the rich history of Japanese textile arts. And the best part? You can actually try it yourself! There are workshops where you can dye your own fabric using natural dyes or traditional methods. It’s an amazing way to connect with this art form and take home a unique souvenir!

As you walk through the streets of Nakai, you’ll find local businesses and workshops decorated with beautiful dyed textiles. And one of the most iconic sights is the noren—those traditional fabric dividers hanging at shop entrances.
Noren have been used in Japan for centuries, not just as decoration but also as a sign of a shop’s identity. In the past, dyeing studios in this area would proudly display noren featuring their unique family crests or patterns. Today, during Some no Komichi, artisans create stunning hand-dyed noren using traditional techniques like shibori (tie-dye), katazome (stencil dyeing), and yuzen (resist dyeing).
Each noren tells a story. Some feature nature-inspired motifs, while others showcase intricate geometric designs. It’s a way for artists to express their creativity while keeping this beautiful tradition alive.
Some no Komichi is more than just a festival—it’s a tribute to Tokyo’s forgotten textile heritage. Many of these dyeing techniques are at risk of disappearing, but thanks to events like this, they are being passed down to the next generation.
As someone who loves natural dyeing, I find so much inspiration here! Seeing how these artisans bring color to life reminds me why traditional crafts are so important.