Okayama Arts and crafts of Tsuyama: "Sakushu-gasuri" weaving

Take a close look at this ancient weaving technique, typical of this town

An ancient castle town, Tsuyama prospered throughout the Edo Period 1601-1868 thanks to its many textile laboratories. A rather special feature is that Tsuyama artisans create motifs by first coloring the threads and then later weave them in order to recreate the planned motif on the fabric. A slow and rather complex way of weaving that makes these products rather unique.

In this walking tour, try your hand at this interesting art, also making simple products that you will be able to bring home as souvenir.

There will also be plenty of time to take a much broader look at this ancient town: special access to some of the most impressive private temples, an overview on the local cuisine -focusing on beef- as well as a coffee break at a well-preserved Taisho Era building, showing the typical traits of the modernization process that Japan went through in the early 1900s.

Watch a textile artisan's work and make your own woven chopstick-sleeve

Experience this ancient weaving technique first-hand by learning directly from a local artisan. During the lecture, you will make your own chopstick-sleeve made of Sakushu-gasuri fabric by weaving it ancient-style. You will also make your own button in your personal design, to complete your creation.

As an option, take a longer class to make your own small doily for decoration or other use.

Have a taste of the local cuisine with a refined dining experience

Lunch will be served at The Shiroyama Terrace, a local ryokan-style venue featured by Michelin Hotel Guide. Overlooking the Tsuyama castle, taste dishes featuring the local beef meat.

Visit the highlights of Tsuyama

For a deeper understanding of Tsuyama, visit the highlights of the city, from beautiful temples generally not open to the public, to a coffee break at a Taisho Era building, where the atmosphere of the modernization process that Japan went through in the early 1900s is still present.