Some no Komichi – Fabric Dyeing Festival

“Some no Komichi” is a festival highlighting the art of dyeing and screen printing in the Nakai/Ochiai area of Shinjuku ward. Traditionally, dye producers were located along the banks of the Myoshoji River which runs through the area. On clear days, colorful kimono fabrics were hung out to dry outside the factories. As an artistic tribute to this heritage, 50 to 60 long pieces of kimono cloth will be draped on wires above the river as a “River Gallery”. The shopping area will also be decorated with 87 specially produced noren—the dyed curtain-like fabric that you often see hanging in front of the entrances to restaurants, onsen and shops selling traditional wares.

The Some no Komichi committee often provide English guided tours for those who are interested in the festival. Tours will visit the River Gallery see colourful noren in the street gallery and enjoy some highlights of the Ochiai and Nakai area. You can also enjoy an actual dyeing experience at a workshop – available in the afternoon tour slot, costing ¥500.

(Greg Lane)