Kurume Kasuri, a textile produced throughout the Chikugo region in the southern part of Fukuoka Prefecture, has over 200 years of history and continues to attract the interest of creators both in Japan and abroad. Twice a year, Hirokawa Town, a major production area for Kurume Kasuri, hosts a festival where weavers and textile producers gather. Fabrics by the bolt or cut, clothing, and accessories are sold at special prices available only during the event. A highlight of the festival is the “Kasurin-Pic,” a Kurume Kasuri bolt-wrapping competition (free to join, registration on the day). The winner receives a bolt of Kasuri fabric, drawing the biggest excitement of the festival. Other activities include kimono dressing experiences (¥1,000 per person, limited to five men and twenty women per day), a Kurume Kasuri fashion show by local high school students, and a market featuring artisans creating bags and accessories from the fabric. Additionally, free shuttle buses depart from the venue every hour to “Peach no Mori,” where visitors can enjoy grape-picking, including four varieties such as Shine Muscat, a unique experience in Hirokawa, also known for its fruit.
Learn more about Kurume Kasuri in these previous reports on Fukuoka Now!
Kurume Kasuri Guide 2021
https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/kurume-kasuri-studio-guide/
List of all workshops of Kurume Kasuri
https://www.fukuoka-now.com/en/guide-to-kurume-kasuri-experiences/
• 9/14 (Sat.), 9/15 (Sun.) *postponed to 9/21, 9/22 in case of inclement weather
• 9:00~17:00 (9/15: ~16:00)
• Free entry
• Hirokawa Industry Exhibition Hall
• 1164-6 Hiyoshi, Hirokawa-machi, Yame-gun, Fukuoka
• https://www.hirokankou.org/kasuri2024/
