SHIMIWATARU
The SHIMIWATARU Project
We launched the SHIMIWATARU Project in order to create new ways to harness the techniques of chiyogami artisans, which are in danger of being lost, and pass them down to future generations.
The Japanese word shimiwataru can mean "to soak through" or "to sink in." We strive to spread the beauty of yuzen-dyed washi paper and the hopes of those who make it through the hearts of those who have not experienced it yet, just like dye spreading through washi.
Our project involves the three initiatives below. To participate, contact us here.
Studio Tours
A chance to create value
（For creators）
People may call something tradition, but in fact, all traditions begin with a novel idea from a single person.
Yuzen Miyazaki, the pioneer of yuzen dyeing, was one such person.
Originally a fan painter, he perfected the rice paste dyeing technique that allowed him to create elaborate and expressive designs on kimono.
We invite creators and artists to tour an active yuzen studio, gain inspiration from chiyogami designs that have been passed down for centuries, and create new design values for the future.
In doing so, we hope to revolutionize the field, like Miyazaki did long ago.
Workshops & Tours
Understand the value of
chiyogami
（For everyone）
Experience and enjoy chiyogami at one of our workshops. We hope that feeling the paper and seeing the vibrant colors firsthand will give you an understanding of the unique hand-dyeing techniques used and the value of artisans.
From little children to older people, we want even more people of all ages to not only experience chiyogami, but also find joy in it and help to pass it down to future generations.
Studio Tours
For everyone (including creators)
30,000 yen/group
(max. 5 people/group)
We began to offer this tour to show people how all of our beautiful chiyogami was actually made.
However, entering the studio means interrupting the artisans' regular work. We want to respect their valuable time. On the other hand, we still truly want others to learn about their masterful techniques.
This is why we ask for payment from visitors, which will go to supporting the artisans and their techniques. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Educational Visits
Learn about the value of
culture
While this is similar to the workshops mentioned above, we also use chiyogami to teach children in other countries about Japanese culture.
We hope that it will also inspire Japanese people to take a fresh look at tradition.
