Quilting Expo in Tokamachi

Tokamachi is a town with a long history of kimono production. It is still well known for turning out beautiful material for the traditional Japanese dress. A walk around the town will turn up plenty of opportunities to buy bits of this stunning material - a dream for anyone who turns their hand to crafts from time to time. There is an active circle of patchworkers and quilters in and around Tokamachi and until the end of September they are having an exhibition of their work. Examples of their handicraft are on display in offices and business around the town. Their are some really amazing creations and if you find yourself in Tokamachi you are sure to stumble upon some. It may even inspire you to take up a needle...

Cross10 Tokamachi

Cross 10 is a road station just off the main street of Tokamachi. It has just had a refit and is now a great place to have a break or do a bit of shopping. It is right next to Kinare so there is plenty in the area to do if you have a bit of extra time.

There are a few different shops but they all celebrate the best of the area with local sakes, foods, materials and crafts. There are some really interesting souvenirs and you can be safe in the knowledge that they are all made by local craftsmen. The kimono heritage of the area is also prominent with material, accessories and kimonos for sale at a couple of specialist boutiques. Business card cases made out of kimono material are an example of one of the unusual items on sale.

 There is also a record-breaking display of hand-made decorations hanging from the ceiling as well as photographs and information about local events and attractions.

It is worth planning to eat there as there is a fantastic restaurant that specialises in local produce - seasonal and freshly harvested, prepared simply to showcase the fantastic flavors. It is also great value and is a modern take at Japanese fast food where organic local ingredients are the star of the show. Manma and cafe Yukimatsuri is the name of the establishment and it is highly recommended if you would like to savor the taste of Snow Country.

Tokamachi Kimono Matsuri - May 3

Here is one festival that you do not want to miss out on. And as it falls during Golden Week you have no excuses. The Tokamachi Kimono Festival is one of the highlights of the year in Snow Country and one of the most colorful festivals you are likely to visit.

The whole town gets involved and everywhere you look there are locals dressed in kimono. There are rental kimono available if you would like to join the fun.

Back in the day, the towns in Snow Country were all but cut off by the heavy snow and to pass away the long hours of a dark winter many an idle hand was turned to weaving. The kimono material of Tokamachi has long been famous and was much prized by the city folk. When spring came and the roads were finally passable the merchants would rush up to this region to purchase the handiwork of the housebound winter months. This festival at the beginning of spring captures the spirit of those times and celebrates Tokamachi's kimono heritage.

The kimono's on display around town and being worn out in the street are breathtaking. Everywhere you turn you are greeted with colorful designs and there are plenty of other attractions going on during the day as well.

More details and some more photos can be found on the Tokamachi Tourism page (Japanese).