Introducing the Nishijin Textile Center!

When it comes to Japanese culture, there are many people who are interested in kimono.
If you want to learn more about kimono, definitely check out the video "Nishijin Textile Center / Nishijin Ori Kaikan" (西陣織会館 / Nishijin Ori Kaikan / 京都いいとこ動画), created by "京都いいとこ動画 KyotoiitokoVideo."
At the Nishijin Textile Center, you can see documents on traditional Japanese clothing, such as kimonos, as well as experience making and putting on a kimono, and even watch a kimono show.

Nishijin Ori

Photo：A Nishijin ori obi

Nishijin ori is a general term for fiber dyed textiles that have been produced in Kyoto since ancient times.

It is said that sericulture and weaving began in Kyoto around the Kofun period (~300 to 538 AD).

During the Onin War (1467 to ~1478), the western military camp (西の陣, Nishi no jin) was set up around Kita no Tenmangu Shrine in Kamigyo, Kyoto, so the area came to be called Nishijin (西陣).

It is said that after the Onin War, many artisans gathered in Nishijin and built the town of Obechou.

Experiences Offered at the Nishijin Textile Center

Source :YouTube screenshot

Nishijin ori is a high-quality silk fabric, and some of its gorgeous designs, such as Junihitoe, with gold brocade, are absolutely stunning.
Inside the Nishijin Textile Center, you can learn about these historic garments through historical exhibits and watch a spectacular kimono show.

There is also an area where you can observe a craftsman’s Nishijin ori techniques, which is shown at 0:50 in the video.

Starting at 0:13 in the video, you can watch a hand-weaving demonstration of hand-woven scarves, using a loom to weave washable silk.
They teach you how to weave a silk scarf, so even beginners can try it out.
For those who want to try on a Kyoto-style kimono, we recommend the Maiko experience, where you can have your make-up and dressing done, or the Kimono rental experience and culture school.

Buy Nishijin ori Goods

Source :YouTube screenshot

You can also buy Nishijin textile items at the Nishijin Craft Shop "Kimono no Yakata."
Many people buy not just kimono, but also Japanese accessories and interior goods.
There are ties, bags and wallets too and they are all fashionable.
The shop is introduced at 0:04 in the video.

There are traditional shrines, temples and restaurants around Nishijin Textile Center, so we recommend sightseeing around the area as well.

Summary of the Nishijin Textile Center

Source :YouTube screenshot

If you're planning a trip to Kyoto, consider taking your time to enjoy the world of traditional Japanese kimono.
There are many attractive sightseeing spots and and hidden gems around Nishijin, so be sure to explore the area.
Trying your hand at making Nishijin ori, as shown in the video, will make your trip to Kyoto a memorable one!

◆Information◆
【Address】414 Tatemonzencho, Kamigyo, Kyoto, Kyoto 602-8216 【Access】A 10 minute walk from Metro Karasuma Line Imadegawa Station, and a 2 minute walk from Kyoto City Bus Horikawa Imadegawa 【Admission Fee】Free 【Parking】Payed parking lot available 【Phone number】075-451-9231 【Notes】Tax can be filed on the sixth floor, exhibition hall

【Official Website】Nishijin Textile Center
https://nishijin.or.jp/eng/

【Tripadvisor】Nishijin Textile Center
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298564-d321410-Reviews-Nishijin_Textile_Center-Kyoto_Kyoto_Prefecture_Kinki.html