Nishijin Textile Center — Kimono Weaving District

**Kimono show:** The daily fashion shows (20 min, free) feature models wearing ¥1–10 million kimono in seasonal themes. The narration (Japanese/English pamphlet) explains kimono types (furisode, tomesode, uchikake) and how to distinguish quality by fabric, pattern complexity, and dyeing technique. The show is touristy but informative for understanding kimono culture. Arrive 15 minutes early for front-row seating. **Weaving workshop:** The 60-minute hand-weaving workshop (¥2,000, reservation required) teaches basic jacquard loom operation. Participants weave a coaster-sized piece (10cm x 10cm) using traditional looms — simplified version of the complex process used for kimono. The workshop demonstrates why Nishijin fabrics cost ¥50,000–500,000+ per meter (months of labor for intricate patterns). **Studio visits:** Some workshops accept visitors to observe weavers at work. Showen (勝鬘, English-speaking master weaver) offers tours by appointment (free, tips appreciated, email reservation). Watching an experienced weaver operate a jacquard loom — hundreds of threads, foot pedals, hand shuttles coordinating in rhythm — conveys the craftsmanship that photos cannot.