JAPAN
exploring japanese blues
tokushima, Japan
May 5-11, 2025
May 19-25, 2025
$3,850 USD per person, shared room
$4,250 USD per person, private room
Join Thread Caravan and indigo artist Natalia Munro in the famed indigo region of Japan, Tokushima.
Here we will work alongside local host Makiko-san to explore the region’s profound indigo traditions, with workshops covering traditional shibori stitching and dyeing, tsutsugaki and kakishibu, katazome, and the making of traditional Japanese fans.
Additionally, we will visit the acclaimed Buaisou workshop to learn about their indigo farming and design process, visit a ceramics studio and more. While this experience provides a deep dive into Japan’s indigo traditions, it also provides a wonderfully immersive introduction to Japanese culture - the food, countryside and the start of the charming rainy season.
This experience is open to all indigo-enthusiasts, no prior experience is necessary.
Where we’ll be, Tokushima
Nestled on the island of Shikoku, Tokushima is a region rich in history, culture, and craftsmanship. Known as the birthplace of Japan’s indigo dyeing tradition, or "Awa-ai," Tokushima has been cultivating and producing indigo for centuries. The area's fertile soil and favorable climate make it ideal for growing the "Tade-ai" plant, from which the iconic indigo dye is derived.
The vibrant blue hues created by Tokushima’s artisans are renowned worldwide, not only for their beauty but also for the deep connection to the region’s cultural heritage. What makes indigo from Tokushima so special is the meticulous care and time-honored techniques passed down through generations. The fermentation process, unique to this region, produces a rich, deep blue that is unparalleled in its depth and vibrancy. This "Japan Blue," as it is often called, is more than just a color; it symbolizes the spirit of the land and the resilience of its people.
Indigo in Tokushima is not merely a craft—it's a living tradition that continues to evolve while honoring its roots. The deep respect for nature, combined with the skillful hands of local artisans, ensures that each piece of indigo-dyed fabric is a work of art, embodying the essence of Tokushima's cultural identity.
Meet Our co-host,
Natalia Munro
In 2019, artist Natalia Munro began her journey into the realm of natural dyes, captivated by the rich hues they could create. As she delved deeper into her exploration, it was the unique process of indigo dyeing that truly captured her heart. The fact that indigo, in its raw form, does not manifest the color blue until it undergoes oxidation, felt like witnessing a magical transformation reminiscent of alchemy. It fascinated her that a simple green plant had the power to yield such intense blues, creating a striking beauty that further fueled her dedication to exploring the secrets of this ancient craft, and has since led her to study Japanese Indigo dyeing and its meticulous craftsmanship.
Japanese art, culture, and their mastery in textiles have had a profound influence on Natalia’s work as an artist. Their expertise in this timeless art is truly awe-inspiring; the dedication and attention they devote to every detail is mirrored in her own practice, as she strives to approach her work with the same level of care. By incorporating Japanese techniques into her art, she is able to not only pay homage to their rich artistic heritage but also enrich her self-expression.
Patience is a key aspect of working with plants and nature, just as it is in the traditional Japanese art forms. We must work in harmony with the rhythm of nature, understanding that we cannot manipulate it to suit our immediate wishes. This philosophy resonates with Natalia deeply and underscores the value of this virtue in both her creative process and in life as a whole. It is in this awareness that she finds clarity and meaning, where the swirling hues mirror the emotions and experiences she processes daily. Through dyeing, she is able to release and express herself, and in return, it grants her the space to reflect, rejuvenate, and gain perspective on life's continual fluctuations.
ITINERARY
-
Arrive to Tokushima airport.
The Thread Caravan team will greet you at the airport and bring you to our accommodation. Time to settle in and walk around the area.
Group dinner and orientation.
-
Today we will begin our shibori workshop with Makiko-san. We will have an introduction to the process and begin stitching our fabrics, preparing them to be dyed tomorrow.
Group breakfast, lunch and dinner.
-
Today we will continue our work with shibori, dyeing our stitched fabrics in Makiko-san's indigo vat. Learn more about Makiko-san's indigo vat dyeing techiniques, and reveal our beautiful creations.
Group breakfast, lunch and dinner.
-
Private transportation approximately 1 hour away for an all day workshop in Tsutsugaki (hand painted rice paste) and Kakishibu (persimmon) dyeing techniques with Takimoto.
-
A tour of the Buaisou studio, to see their farm and learn about their artisanal processes, followed by a workshop making an indigo-dyed noren curtain on handwoven fabric with katazome (rice paste resist).
After this experience we'll head to one of our favorite shops for finished indigo pieces, and a ceramics studio.
Group breakfast, lunch and dinner.
-
Workshop to create artisanal, traditional paper fans, dyed with indigo at Tonbiii in Marugame.
Group breakfast, lunch and farewell dinner.
-
Final group breakfast and private transport to the Tokushima airport.
TRIP
DETAILS
GROUP
This trip is limited to 8 guests, who will accompanied by 1 Thread Caravan trip facilitator, artist Natalia Munro, and our local partners.
PRICING + PAYMENT
Pricing is $3,850 per person for a shared room, and $4,250 per person for a private room..
A non-refundable $1,250 deposit is required in order to reserved your space on this trip. The remaining payment is due 60 days prior to the trip date.
ACCOMMODATION
We will be staying at a Western-style hotel in the city center of Tokushima. There is option for private or shared room (in separate beds) accommodation.
GETTING TO Tokushima
This trip starts and ends in Tokushima, Japan. You may want to book one roundtrip international flight to Tokyo, and then a separate domestic flight from Tokyo to Tokushima.
You may contact us or request our concierge flight service if you need support arranging your flights.
COST INCLUDES
Artisan Experiences: Hands-on workshops in shibori, tsutsugaki, kakishibu, katazome and artisanal fan making. During workshops, all materials are included, as well as fair pay to artisan instructors. In addition to workshops, this experience includes various studio visits and shopping experiences.
In-Country Transportation: You get to Tokushima airport and we handle the rest. We will work with local drivers to take us around the island, and may also take local transport like train.
All Meals: Due to the nature of Japanese cuisine, it is not possible for us to accommodate vegetarian or vegan diets during this trip. If you have any questions about dietary restrictions, please contact us.
Accommodation: We will be staying at a western style hotel during this trip, with either private or shared room occupancy.
Support: Two trip facilitators will host this experience in partnership with local guides and hosts. The Thread Caravan team will be available in the months leading up to the trip to help you prepare.
Carbon Emissions Offset: We’ve partnered with Trees for the Future to plant 50 tress on your behalf in order to offset the carbon emissions of your travel to Japan.
ADDITIONAL EXPENSES
Alcoholic Drinks: Thread Caravan does not cover the cost of alcoholic beverages (and they will not always be available in Morocco).
Airfare: To and from the Tokushima airport.
Personal Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance is required for this trip. Please find an insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations.
Extra Excursions: During our scheduled free time, guests will be responsible for all incurred expenses.
Personal Expenses: Shopping, medicine, snacks, etc.
OTHER IMPORTANT INFO
Vaccinations: The CDC recommends preparing for Japan with routine vaccinations as well as Typhoid and Hepititis A + B and Japanese Encephalitis.
VISA: A visa is not required for US citizens visiting Japan for less than 90 days. If you plan to spend more than 90 days in Japan, or are a citizen from a country other than the US, please look into visa requirements or contact us to help you.
Passport Validity: Passport must have at least 6 months validity at time of entry as well as at least one empty page.
Trip Preparation: We will send a trip preparation packet to you one month before the trip. It will include things like an exact itinerary, a suggested pack list, useful country information and more.
QUESTIONS? CONTACT US.
