Immerse Yourself in the Arts and Culture of Edo’s Townspeople

During the Edo period (1603–1868), Japan enjoyed prolonged peace and stability after centuries of conflict. As life improved, people flocked to the sprawling capital of Edo (present-day Tokyo), bringing their crafts with them. This would give rise to a newfound appreciation for the arts and a culture unique to Edo’s townspeople that lives on today.

Yuzen dyeing, andon paper lanterns, and ukiyo-e woodblock prints were popular among the masses and intertwined with daily life. In Arakawa City, you can paint designs with Yuzen techniques and make your own andon paper lantern.

Moments away from the busy, trendsetting streets of Harajuku in Shibuya City, appreciate ukiyo-e art, and delve into the history of the village of Onden that once stood there and inspired the famed artist Katsushika Hokusai (1760–1849).

DISCOVERING TOKYO puts the spotlight on various recommended spots and experiences introduced by Tokyo’s many municipalities. Step back in time and experience the arts and culture of Edo.

Tokyo’s Arakawa, where tradition and innovation come alive through DIY creation
(Arakawa City)

A short journey through culture and calm: Echoes of Edo in the heart of Harajuku
(Shibuya City)

Arakawa CityTokyo’s Arakawa, where tradition and innovation come alive through DIY creation

Step into the world of Edo Period art in Tokyo’s Arakawa City.

Arakawa City’s Nippori Fabric Town is an iconic, traditional neighborhood of artisans, where you can find all kinds of fabric materials for your latest crafts project. One station away from Nippori Station, try Tokyo Tegaki Yuzen, a hand-painted dyeing art passed down since the 1600s. Unlike other places, artisans in Tokyo do every step by hand, from drawing to coloring. Here, you can try a simplified version, perfect for first-timers. Create your own delicate design and take home a one-of-a-kind memento.

Continue on to Miyako Andon, where you can craft your own Japanese lantern. Once a common fixture used for lighting during the Edo Period, these lamps represent beauty, ingenuity, and humanity’s mastery of light before the advent of electricity. Today, artisans preserve this tradition while blending it with modern sensibilities to fit today’s interior spaces. Bask in the warmth exuded by the natural wood and washi paper as you bring your own piece of history together.

General information

Nippori Fabric Town

Regular Holidays : None
Address : 5 Higashi-Nippori, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo MAP
Nippori Fabric Town Official WEB Site＊The holidays of Nippori Fabric Town’s shops vary by store.

See details at “GO TOKYO”

Tsukiyasu

Business Hours : 10:00-17:00
Regular Holidays : Sunday
Address : 5-32-10 Higashi-Nippori, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo MAP
Tsukiyasu Official WEB Site
＊Cash only

Hand-Painted Yuzen Dyeing Experience

Regular Holidays : Irregular holidays
Address : 3-61-4 Arakawa, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo MAP
Hand-Painted Yuzen Dyeing Experience Official WEB Site＊Click here for details on the plans and your reservation.

Miyako Andon

Business Hours : 9:00-17:30
Regular Holidays : Saturday, Sunday, Holiday
Address : 4-26-10 Higashi-Nippori, Arakawa-ku, TokyoMAP
Miyako Andon Official WEB Site　　（Japanese）＊Click here for details on the plans and your reservation.＊Visit to the showroom and the workshops are by reservation only.

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE!

Local Crafts & Textile

The GO TOKYO website provides travel information in a range of categories. Check it out to find other activities and outings similar to those we explore in these articles.