House of Aizumi History Museum, indigo

Tokushima (徳島県)
Museum
House of Aizumi History Museum, indigo - Photo 1
House of Aizumi History Museum, indigo - Photo 2
House of Aizumi History Museum, indigo - Photo 3

Maezunishi-172 Tokumei, Aizumi, Itano District, Tokushima 771-1212, Japan

088-692-6317

4.1 (414 reviews)

Opening Hours

Monday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Reviews

YJ

YJ

9 months ago

An enjoyable and immersive experience about indigo dyeing and the trade industry that flourished here in the past. Prior to this, did not even know that this indigo is a plant ☘️ (thought it was just a colour) If you sign up for the workshop, you get to dye a piece of clothing (handkerchief, towel, bandana etc) and you pay according to the size of cloth you're dyeing. You get to choose the type of dyeing pattern (as the dyeing process depends on how the cloth is prepared), and the instructor guides you through the entire process which takes around 40 min. Despite speaking very little English, the instructor was very professional and engaging in the demonstration and explanation of the various steps. You gain a deeper appreciation for the labour put into painstakingly designing patterns and shapes on various materials. The exhibits are hosted in the sprawling compound (which is still very well maintained) and the dioramas do a fantastic job showing how grueling the planting, harvesting, fermentation and dyeing process was. An absolutely educational and enriching experience to showcase why indigo dyeing deserves its spot as a Japan Heritage icon. Value for money exhibit and workshop.
R Y

R Y

9 months ago

Really enjoyed this educational experience. The write-ups were amazing (English write-ups available), the models were great, the residence was preserved in excellent condition. We learned a lot about this unique, traditional craft. We opted for the handkerchief dyeing experience. Although we barely spoke Japanese, our guide made an effort to converse with us. Highly recommended.
Debra S

Debra S

5 months ago

We had a wonderful hands on experience of traditional Japanese dyeing with plant based indigo dye. The museum displays are amazing as they depict in miniature the entire process from growing the plant through to the buying and selling process.
Erika Houle

Erika Houle

9 months ago

This place is a must visit if you are in the Tokushima area and would like to make your own indigo dyed items! The museum is nice and small, but make sure to come with enough time (30-50 min) to make your own dyed items. I was visiting alone and made 3 items each in 2 rounds for a total of 6 items. I would have made more if I had more time. The staff is super helpful and care about your items turning out nicely. The process is super easy. They do give you an apron, but wear black, especially shoes, if you have. Otherwise, just be careful of drips. I didn’t get dye on my clothes but could see that happening. The gift shop is also stunning. I want to go back! I rented a car (very affordable, just get your international driver’s license before coming to Japan). I don’t know how to get here via public transport.
Phillip

Phillip

4 months ago

The staff are kind and friendly. The dying experience is fun. I understand why they have set options for patterns, it makes things go more quickly. However, I imagine many Americans would also prefer an additional option to do something free-form. This is especially true because many Americans have experience tye-dyeing. I would also suggest that tourists have the option to not use gloves. Having stained hands for a day or two would extend the memory. The historic home is incredible and feels like a dreamlike liminal space. I would suggest doing more than one cloth to extend the experience. Make one, learn, then make another. It was really fun. Some people think the ferment smells bad, but it will seem less offensive as you work. It's a fun time.