Handcrafted Japan: A Cultural & Textile Journey
$6,580
per person, twin share (land tour only)
$1,465 single supplement for sole use of a hotel room
Tour Leader
Tour Info
OVERVIEW
Join us for an exploration of Japan's rich textile traditions and cultural heritage. This carefully crafted 12-day journey takes you from the bustling fabric districts of Tokyo to the historic craft villages of the Japanese Alps, culminating in Kyoto's legendary textile quarter.
Experience Japan's living craft traditions through hands-on workshops led by master artisans, learning ancient techniques including sashiko stitching, indigo dyeing, shibori resist-dyeing, temari ball making, and yuzen painting. Visit renowned textile artists in their studios to find more inspiration.
Beyond the workshops, discover Japan's cultural treasures: peaceful temple gardens, historic castles, world-class museums, and the architectural wonder of Matsumoto Castle. Browse vibrant fabric markets, from Tokyo's famous Nippori Fabric Town to Kyoto's bustling Tenjin-san flea market where vintage textiles and handmade treasures await.
Join us for an essential exploration of Japan's artistry, craftsmanship, and enduring traditions, as we journey through the cultural heartlands of this captivating country.
HIGHLIGHTS
Textile Workshops & Master Artisans
- Discover traditional Japanese textile techniques: Yuzen kimono painting, Roketsu dyeing, intricate Shibori resist-dyeing, delicate Sashiko stitching, and ornamental Temari ball making
- Visit Akie Ginza's renowned Sashiko Museum in the serene mountain village of Hinohara, showcasing her personal collection and lifetime dedication to this traditional art
- Tour the Itchiku Kubota Museum to discover the late textile artist's visionary kimono dyeing techniques
- Experience traditional washi papermaking in a picturesque Japanese Alps village
Historic Textile Districts & Markets
- Spend a full day exploring Kyoto's legendary Nishijin Textile District, the heart of Japanese silk weaving for over 1,200 years
- Hunt for vintage fabrics and handmade treasures at Kyoto's famous Tenjin-san flea market and browse Tokyo's Nippori Fabric Town, a textile lover's paradise with dozens of specialty shops
Cultural Landmarks & Experiences
- Walk through thousands of vermillion torii gates at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Experience the serene beauty of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and the famous rock gardens of Ryoanji Temple
- Explore the majestic Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan's most beautiful original castles
- Discover the Tokyo National Museum and peaceful Imperial East Gardens
- Stroll through Koishikawa Korakuen, one of Japan's oldest and most beautiful landscape gardens
- Relax in a traditional onsen (hot spring) at Lake Yamanaka with views of Mount Fuji
Detailed Itinerary
START & FINISH
The tour begins with a welcome dinner in Kyoto, on Day 1, Thursday, October 22. The tour concludes after breakfast at your leisure in Tokyo on Day 12, Monday, November 2.
An airport arrival and departure transfer is included. These transfers are only valid between our designated hotels and airports within specified times. Contact us for additional details.
Itinerary
DETAILED ITINERARY
Please contact our office for more information
Opulent Quilt Journeys
Phone: 877 235 3767
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tour Leader
Lisa Ellis
Lisa began quilting in her early thirties, starting with baby and lap quilts for her family. What started as a simple creative outlet quickly grew into a lifelong passion for both quilting and the community it fosters. Now the owner of Cactus Quilt Shop in Tucson, Arizona, she has built a vibrant hub where quilters of all levels come together to learn, share, and be inspired. Lisa is known for making quilting approachable and fun for beginners, while also offering fresh challenges that keep experienced quilters engaged. More than anything, she treasures the connections and friendships that grow from the quilting community and delights in creating spaces where those bonds can flourish.
Inclusions
TOUR INCLUSIONS
What is included in the tour price?
- 11 nights twin-share accommodation at well-appointed hotels with breakfast daily
- Shared arrival & departure transfers (conditions apply)
- Transportation in Japan by bullet train and chartered coach
- Meals, workshops and entrance fees as stated in the itinerary
- An English-speaking guide throughout the trip in Japan
What is not included in the tour price?
- International airfare to Japan
- Travel insurance
- Porterage at hotels and personal expenses
- Gratuities and anything not mentioned
Hotels
HOTELS
Please contact our office for more information
Opulent Quilt Journeys
Phone: 877 235 3767
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tour Details
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