Step into the refined world of kumihimo, Japan’s ancient art of braided cords, in this hands-on cultural experience guided by a master artisan. While seemingly simple in design, kumihimo is a challenging and deeply symbolic craft that leaves a lasting impression on those who try it.
At the Kumihimo Studio, you will learn how these humble cords weave together centuries of tradition, technique, and beauty, and leave with a handcrafted accessory that reflects your taste, effort and patience!
Key features of the Kumihimo Experience:
- Participate in a workshop where you pick the type of accessory you will be making and the colours
- Have a master craftsman guide you through the process and help you achieve a high-quality item
- Visit the museum and see how far Kumihimo has been stretching throughout Japanese history and culture.
Kumihimo: An Ancient Craft That Quietly Shapes Everyday Japan
Though often subtle in appearance, kumihimo has long held a significant place in Japanese life. To my surprise, these cords have been used to tie samurai armour, fasten kimonos, decorate religious items, and embellish both everyday goods and ceremonial treasures!
In every braid lies purpose, patience, and harmony and by challenging myself with this craft, I was able to connect with Japanese culture in a new, meaningful way.
The Craftsman
Adachi San is an older gentleman who grew up surrounded by Kumihimo, eventually being pulled by it’s strings and making it his profession. After adventuring in its complexity, it took him about 5 years to be able to craft pieces that were good enough to sell, and now, with decades of experience, he runs this workshop and museum, making it so that both Japanese and foreigners can connect with the craft.
With a sharp eye and swift moves, he will help you pick up where you stopped if you get lost. With one quick look, you will also be able to see how a master braids Kumihimo at a fast speed. (It’s incredibly fast, you will be amazed!)
According to Adachi-san, the one thing that one must have to master Kumihimo is 根気 Konki, meaning perseverance and patience, since mistakes often happen. The most important thing is to be patient enough to undo and redo the braiding.
The Experience at the Kumihimo Studio
My journey began by choosing the accessory I wanted to create. From stylish keychains to elegant bracelets or bag ties, there were many options to pick from. Some take more time to finish since they’re longer, like the glasses strap.
But if you’re going to try your best at this new craft, where often the crossing of the threads is seen as the intertwining of fate, my suggestion is you pick something that will be with you often, to remind you (or the person you’re giving it to) of the time you took a unique experience while visiting the Japan.
I ended up going with a keychain, and then it was time to pick my favourite colours from an array of sets of dyed threads. The options here are also vast, and while you cannot make your own combination since they’re previously tied at the end, I’m sure you will find one that suits your taste.
Next, the instructor introduced me to the technique behind the rhythmic beauty. The weaving looked quite straightforward, and it was! But the motions required focus, consistency, and flow, so it was easy to forget what the next move or direction was; I ended up losing track of what the next move was a couple of times.
Each movement must be deliberate, because while it is a repetitive motion, each time you cross the threads, they can twist or cross unevenly–focus and attention from start to finish are key! I didn’t think this would be such a grounding task, but I was absorbed into the task at hand, and it felt great.
If you’re afraid it might be too complex or demanding, don’t worry. The master artisan is not only an expert in the craft but also a patient guide who will gently correct any missteps and ensure your final braid appears as flawless as if it had come from a machine. He kindly helped me figure out the next move many times over.
This personalised guidance allows even beginners to produce a piece of quality and precision, one you will be proud to wear or gift to someone special.
A Small Museum With a Lot to See
While my keychain was being turned into a finished accessory by the staff, I stepped into a small yet illuminating museum space with the master artisan ready to answer any questions I had. Here, I discovered the remarkable range and complexity of kumihimo, from thick, richly coloured cords used in traditional garments to vast, intricate braids made using large-scale wooden looms. (These were amazing, and I couldn’t even understand how one could keep track of such a complex process.)
This is where you can get a proper understanding of how deeply rooted Kumihimo is in Japanese history. Through detailed displays, you’ll see how kumihimo has evolved over the centuries and remains an enduring thread in the tapestry of Japanese aesthetics and craft.
The exhibit, while small in scale, offers insight into the discipline, creativity, and artistry required to master this age-old skill. It helps you to appreciate even more the simple cord that you just made, and who knows, make you begin a new hobby?
Kumihimo FAQs
What is the spiritual meaning of kumihimo?
Kumihimo symbolises connection and unity—threads woven together to represent harmony, relationships, and strength.
Is kumihimo hard?
Not at all! It’s beginner-friendly and meditative once you get the rhythm, though complex patterns can take practice.
What is the difference between kumihimo and obijime?
Kumihimo is the braiding technique; obijime is a decorative cord (often made using kumihimo) used to secure a kimono’s obi.
What is the purpose of kumihimo?
Traditionally used in samurai armor and kimono accessories, kumihimo now serves both functional and decorative purposes in fashion and crafts.
Ready to Weave Your Own Connection to Japan
Step away from the crowds and into the quiet, meditative world of a master artisan. In this workshop, you will do more than just braid a cord—you will connect with centuries of Japanese history and create a unique symbol of your journey.
Ready to weave your story? Book this authentic Kumihimo session or explore dozens of other cultural experiences that will define your trip.
Taking Tradition and Craft With You Back Home
This experience offers not only the chance to create a beautiful, personalised item, but also to develop a deeper understanding of how something so small can carry so much cultural significance.
Unfortunately, Kumihimo is a dying art struggling to reach younger generations. Adachi San is hoping that by sharing this experience, the craft can be stronger and linger a while longer in Japan. And once you try your hand at it and see how present it is in Japanese life, you will start spotting it more and more, at shrines, kimonos, and more modern accessories, like the one you will have created!
Whether you’re new to Japanese craft or a returning enthusiast, this encounter with kumihimo is an enriching and meditative way to connect with the spirit of craftsmanship that runs through Japan’s living heritage. If you’d like to try this very experience, meet Adachi San and make your own Kumihimo piece, you can book this and many other culturally enriching experiences through Flip on our website!
