Page 54 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Japan

Kimono Dragons
A kimono-clad geiko is an
enduring image of Japan.
For a peek at this nonpareil
apparel, check out the fabu-
lous silks at the Itchiku
Kubota Art Museum (p158).
Then create your own at the
Nagamachi Kaga Yuzen Silk
DISCOVER Japan Your Way A trio of elegantly adorned
Center (p164).

geiko, dressed in colorful
silk kimonos

JAPAN FOR
TRADITIONAL

CRAFTS

Hailed as “Living National Treasures,” Japan’s shokunin, or artisans, venerate
tradition, continuity, and attention to detail. Across the country you can
visit workshops and markets brimming with hand-turned pottery, delicately
painted silks and exquistely crafted paper – and even design your own.

TOP OTHER
5 CRAFTS

Origami
Folding paper into
unexpected treasures.
Shodo
The art of calligraphy
arrived in Japan from
China in AD 600.
Bonsai
Carefully pruned,
per fectly formed tiny
trees.
Ikebana Dyeing to Meet You
Beautiful flower For centuries, strict sumptuary laws
arrange ments origi- restricted all but the wealthiest from
nally used as offerings. wearing certain colors and fabrics, such
as silk. Learn more about the history at
Kodo Kyoto’s Little Indigo Museum (shindo-
An “art of refinement” – shindigo.com). Get a feel for creating
the practice of appre- your own textiles at the Mingei Iyo
ciating incense. Kasuri Kaikan in Matsuyama (p256), or
scour flea markets for vintage pieces.
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