Exploring Okinawa's Ancient Textile Arts
$7,390
per person, twin share (land tour only)
$1,285 single supplement for sole use of a hotel room
Tour Leader
Tour Info
OVERVIEW
Journey to Okinawa, a subtropical island chain far south of mainland Japan with its own distinct cultural identity and textile traditions. Once the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, Okinawa developed craft techniques found nowhere else in Japan - from the intricate Hanaori floral weaving to the vibrant Bingata stencil dyeing, delicate Bashofu banana fiber cloth, and indigo traditions unique to these islands. This exclusive 11-day journey takes you deep into the heart of Okinawan craft culture, where you'll work alongside master artisans learning techniques passed down through generations.
Beyond the workshops, you'll explore UNESCO World Heritage castle sites that echo the Ryukyu Kingdom's golden age, witness traditional dance performances accompanied by the three-stringed sanshin, and experience the living culture of islands that feel worlds away from Tokyo or Kyoto. This carefully curated itinerary balances hands-on textile workshops with cultural discoveries that bring Okinawa's distinctive artistic legacy to life.
HIGHLIGHTS
Hands-on textile workshops
- Master intricate Hanaori floral weaving at exclusive workshops with local artisans
- Create your own vibrant designs using traditional Bingata stencil dyeing techniques
- Learn the ancient art of weaving Bashofu cloth from banana fibers in Ogimi Village
- Experience natural indigo dyeing with the Ryukyu Indigo Association
- Practice silk weaving and natural dyeing on Kumejima Island, famous for Tsumugi textiles
- Discover the unique process of sugarcane dyeing at a local cooperative
- Try your hand at traditional Okinawan weaving techniques passed down through generations
island culture & beauty
- Explore the reconstructed Shuri Castle, former royal palace and UNESCO World Heritage site
- Walk through the atmospheric ruins of Nakijin Castle with sweeping Pacific views
- Experience the vibrant colors and sounds of a Festival celebrating centuries of island culture
- Visit historic weaving centers preserving techniques from the kingdom era
- Experience a traditional Ryukyu dance performance with sanshin music
- Stroll through tranquil gardens and gorgeous coastal landscapes
- Take a day trip to Kumejima Island, home to exceptional textile traditions
Detailed Itinerary
START & FINISH
The tour begins with a welcome dinner on Day 1, Sunday, November 1st at our group hotel in Naha. The tour ends after breakfast at leisure on Day 11, Wednesday, November 11 in Onna.
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
Jennifer Williams
Jennifer B. Williams has been passionate about fiber crafts for as long as she can remember. Her enthusiasm led her to band weaving, where she discovered her creative joy. She loves sharing her excitement for the craft and all its possibilities. If you get her talking about inkle weaving, be prepared to stay a while! Over the years, she has explored band weaving techniques from around the world and enjoys the challenge of adapting them to the inkle loom. Jennifer frequently contributes to Handwoven Magazine’s Easy Weaving with Little Looms and occasionally shares her ideas on her blog, inkledpink.com, and Instagram @inkledpink.
Inclusions
TOUR INCLUSIONS
What is included in the tour price?
- 10 nights twin-share accommodation at well-appointed hotels with breakfast daily
- Transportation throughout by private, comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and ferry where noted
- 6 dinner, 2 lunches and workshops and entrance fees as stated in the itinerary
- Services of a local English-speaking guide throughout the tour
What is not included in the tour price?
- 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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