Kosoen Studio (Ome, Tokyo) – Indigo Dying in Tokyo

If you love the samurai blue of Japanese indigo dying, I highly recommend you take a day trip to Kosoen Studio in Ome, Tokyo. My daughter and I visited the other day and learned a lot about Japanese indigo dying, and returned home with scarves we will always cherish. Depending on the item you chose to dye (placemat, handkerchief, shirt or scarf the price will vary between 2,000 – 6,000 yen). The experience takes about one hour. Reservations are needed – you can email or FB message them in English. If you would like to experience indigo dying in central Tokyo, you can join a Best Living Japan indigo class or visit Wanariya in Asakusa.

Kosoen Studio (Ome, Tokyo) – Indigo Dying in Tokyo

Ome used to have hundreds of indigo studios, but now only a few exist. The Murata family has been dying with indigo since the early 1900s and in 1989 opened their studio to the public. Kosoen produces indigo dyed fabrics from clothing to cushions for retail customer. They also have a lovely boutique where they sell some of the items they make. If you want to buy some of their clothing in Tokyo, the Blue & White Shop in Azabu Juban has a nice selection.

During your session, you will be taught how indigo (Aizome) is grown and produced and briefly about the history. Great one hour experience. While in the Ome area you can take a day hike at Mt. Mitake or visit the Tsurutsuru Onsen (external link).

***Notes:

The studio is not baby/toddler-friendly. Kids need to be able to sit and listen carefully.
People sensitive to smell may choose not to visit (Aizome /indigo) smells.
You should wear clothes that can get stained. You will be provided an apron, but indigo travels.

Kosoen Studio – Japanese Indigo Dying

Address: 8-200 Nagabuchi, Ome-shi, Tokyo (google map)
Business hours: 10am-6pm / closed Tue
Access: From Shinjuku take the Chuo Line 90 mins to Ome station, then walk 25 mins to the studio (I would take a cab with kids). Driving is about 70 mins depending on traffic.
Website: http://www.kosoen.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aizome.kosoen/