Traditional Shibori: Japanese Tie-Dye Experience & Historic Town Tour in Arimatsu
Tour Duration
Tour Duration
6.5-7
Hours
Starting From
Starting From
19,000
JPY/group
Size
Size
1-5
Person
Highlights
  • Discover the centuries-old Japanese art of Shibori tie-dyeing in its historic birthplace.
  • Stroll through Arimatsu’s beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, a rare glimpse into old Japan.
  • Visit the Arimatu-Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum and artisan galleries to see intricate tie-dyed masterpieces.
  • Create your own unique hand-dyed fabric in a hands-on Shibori workshop with expert guidance (Handkerchief, Tenugui Fabric Dyeing, or T-shirts Dyeing).
  • Experience a hidden cultural gem near Nagoya, blending history, artistry, and local craftsmanship.

Immerse yourself in the rich history and craftsmanship of Shibori tie-dyeing on this hands-on cultural experience in Arimatsu. This town, founded in the early 1600s during the Edo period (over 400 years ago), became a thriving textile hub thanks to its Shibori artisans, whose intricate dyeing techniques gained fame across Japan. The Shibori industry brought prosperity to Arimatsu, shaping its beautifully preserved merchant houses and historic streets, which remain one of the few places where Edo-period architecture can still be seen today.

During this tour, you’ll visit Arimatu-Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum to observe skilled artisans at work, stroll through heritage-filled streets lined with traditional workshops and boutiques, and finally, try your hand at Shibori dyeing in a hands-on workshop.

Whether you’re passionate about Japanese textiles, cultural heritage, or creative experiences, this tour offers a unique and unforgettable glimpse into Japan’s artistic traditions.

Itinerary

9:30 AM – Meet at Nagoya Station & Travel to Arimatsu

Meet your guide at Nagoya Station, then take a local train to Arimatsu. The route offers a glimpse into typical Japanese residential neighborhoods, giving you a unique perspective on everyday life in Japan.

10:20 AM – Arrive at Arimatu-Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum & Explore the Tie-Dyeing Exhibition

Visit Arimatu-Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum, a center dedicated to preserving the art of Shibori tie-dyeing. Watch skilled artisans at work, observe their intricate dyeing techniques, and ask questions about their craft to gain a deeper understanding of this centuries-old tradition.

11:15 AM – Walk Through Arimatsu’s Historic Streets & Enjoy Lunch

Stroll through Arimatsu’s beautifully preserved Edo-era streets, lined with traditional merchant houses and craft shops. Browse unique Shibori textile stores, artisan boutiques, and historical sites showcasing the town’s rich heritage.

For lunch, your guide will recommend a restaurant based on your preferences, whether you’d like to try a local specialty or a classic Japanese meal.

1:00 PM – Shibori Tie-Dyeing Workshop


Try your hand at creating your own Shibori-dyed piece, guided by skilled artisans. Choose from one of the following workshops:

A) Handkerchief / Tenugui Fabric Dyeing (shorter workshop, ends earlier)
B) T-shirt Dyeing (longer workshop, ends later)

A) Handkerchief / Tenugui Workshop Route
2:30 PM – Workshop Ends, Walk to Arimatsu Station
3:00 PM – Take the Train Back to Nagoya Station
3:30 PM – Tour Ends at Nagoya Station

B) T-shirt Workshop Route
3:00 PM – Workshop Ends, Walk to Arimatsu Station
3:30 PM – Take the Train Back to Nagoya Station
4:00 PM – Tour Ends at Nagoya Station

Meeting Point

Nagoya Station Tourist Information Center

What's Included

What’s Included

  • Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Hands-on Shibori tie-dyeing workshop
  • Entry to the Arimatu-Narumi Tie-Dyeing Museum
  • Round-trip public transportation between Nagoya and Arimatsu
  • Travel Insurance

What’s Not Included

  • Transportation to the meeting point
  • Food and drinks
  • Admission to the Arimatsu Float Museum
  • Entry fees for select historical houses
  • Guide gratuities (optional)
Additional Info

Activity Level

This tour involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Accessibility

Stroller accessible – This tour is suitable for those traveling with strollers.

Tour Operation & Language

  • This tour is conducted in English.
    A Mandarin, French, Spanish, German, or Korean-speaking guide may be available. Please contact the supplier in advance to check availability.
  • The minimum age for participants is 5 years old.

Dietary Requirements

Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking. If no dietary information is provided, we will assume you have no restrictions. Advance notice is required so we can arrange a suitable restaurant for lunch.

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Some cash for lunch, drinks, and shopping

Booking Request

This experience is booked on request. The owner of the experience will respond to the request within 5 days

Booking & Cancellation Policy

Booking Deadline

Advance booking is required.
Cut-off time: 1 week before departure.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Date Cancellation Fee
No-show or cancellation after tour departure 100% of the tour price
On the tour date 50% of the tour price
1 day prior to the tour date 40% of the tour price
2 to 7 days prior to the tour date 30% of the tour price
8 to 10 days prior to the tour date 20% of the tour price
11 or more days prior to the tour date Free
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The locations
to visit in this tour

Arimatsu, Nagoya City
Starting From
19,000 JPY/group