Weave Your Own Nishijin Brocade Tapestry at Masuya Takao in Kyoto

Exclusive Weaving Experience at a Historic Weaving Studio

Masuya Takao, located in Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, is a weaving workshop with over 90 years of history. They were commissioned by the Tokugawa Art Museum to restore the famous Golden Nenkin Fukusa (a square silk wrapping cloth), which inspired them to create their own nenkin thread by wrapping cotton strands with gold leaf.

Craftsmen weaving nenkin threads by hand

This plan offers exclusive use of the Masuya Takao KINKAKUJI SALON, just a 5-minute walk from Kinkakuji Temple, for one pair of participants per day to create a tapestry. Optionally, you can choose to make an obi (sash) instead. Experience authentic weaving using a hand loom similar to those used by artisans.

Hand loom used during the hands-on experience

Luxurious Tapestry Woven With Metallic Thread

Masuya Takao is committed to SDGs initiatives. As weavers of Nishijin textiles, they have created a manufacturing experience using leftover threads and cloth from kimono production.

Finished tapestry

In this experience, you will weave a tapestry for your home. Choose from a white, gray, or black base fabric on the workshop day. The nenkin thread woven into the fabric will glimmer and shine as it catches the light, adding sparkle and elegance to your space.

Choose from white, gray, or black for the tapestry's base

The tapestry's center is woven with two seasonal warp thread colors, vibrant nenkin threads as weft threads, along with leftover threads and fabric scraps from the production of expensive obi belts. The warp threads are bi-colored, with different colors for the left and right halves, and the available colors change depending on the season. Add Masuya Takao's signature gold and nenkin threads to customize your piece, making it truly unique.

Fall's warp threads are pale and deep purple (only for reference)

Weave the center of the tapestry to your liking

Explore the Roots of Beauty by Crafting from Threads

First, you will learn directly from the artisan’s about the history of Nishijin textiles and Masuya Takao's role, along with their insights into Masuya Takao's craftsmanship. Then, you will experience the depth of Nishijin textiles by touching the tools and threads with your hands, feeling their warmth.

Feel the warmth as you touch the tools and threads

Try Your Hand at the Hand Loom and Experience Artisan Craftsmanship

Finally, move to the loom and experience weaving firsthand. You will operate a weaving machine, threading the weft yarn, beating the stile and rail by hand, and stepping on the treadle with your foot. Skilled weavers will guide you through any unfamiliar tasks, ensuring a smooth process. Another highlight of this one-day private workshop is the opportunity to discuss materials and colors with the artisan while observing the weaving process.

Warp threads vary in color by season

After weaving the center section, the artisan combines it with the base fabric to complete the tapestry. You will receive the finished product by mail in about 1 to 2 months. Plus, there is a special offer from Wabunka: participants will receive a Masuya Takao original item as a gift. Choose from accessories like necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or tassel key rings to take home the same day.

Masuya Takao original items are handmade by craftsmen

Optional Plan Available for Making an Obi Belt

Alternatively, you can opt to create an obi belt using the same technique as the tapestry, with a choice of four different types. The luxurious base fabric is made of 100% nenkin thread, available in dark, light, and multi-colored options on the same day. After selecting the fabric, weave the parts for the back and stomach using threads and fabrics. Masuya Takao’s artisans will finish the obi, which will be shipped to you in about 1 to 2 months.

Image of an optional obi belt that can be produced

As an exclusive benefit for those who have an obi made, Wabunka offers Masuya Takao's original etiquette pouch. Designed with layers of fabric in three colors, you can choose from four or five different shades to take home the same day. Highly rated in antibacterial tests, they are recommended for use as mask cases or accessory holders.

Masuya Takao's etiquette pouch

Experience the richness of Japanese tradition with colorful tapestries for interiors and unique obis for kimono outfits. Dive into the world of Nishijin textiles and create your own one-of-a-kind items.