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  • Shelves filled with colorful fabric swatches and spools of thread.

TEXTILE TOUR: Kyoto Craft & Quilting Tour • November 2026

time to book your flights + prepare your boarding pass!
00 DAYS
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Kyoto, Japan
November 12, 2026 to November 23, 2026
Limited to 10 PARTICIPANTS

where tradition meets the cutting edge.

I’ve always believed that to truly evolve as makers, we need to get up close with the history and the grit of how things are actually made. Japan is the ultimate destination for that—a place where geometry, intentionality, and ancient technique collide in the most electric way.

This isn’t a curated "sightseeing" trip. It’s a backstage pass for the adventurous spirits who want to see the process behind the art. We’re going to step inside private artist studios, take hands-on workshops with master artisans, and get lost in the stacks of world-class fabric shops.

I’m keeping this group intentionally small—just 10 of us. I want to connect with a squad of like-minded makers who value creative courage and the beauty of independent discovery. We aren't just here to watch; we’re here to be inspired by the grit and the precision of a culture that respects its roots but isn't afraid to innovate.

$9,000.00 CAD
$9,000.00 CAD
Shipping calculated at checkout.

  • TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

    This is a curated deep-dive into the heart of Japanese craft. We’ve bypassed the standard tourist traps to get you direct access to the artisans and studios that define the intersection of tradition and modern textile art.

    • Private visits to master artist studios that aren't usually open to the public
    • Hands-on workshops with Japanese artisans—get your hands into the process
    • Cultural excursions to historic temples and hidden gardens, framed through a maker’s lens
    • Guided fabric and craft shopping in Kyoto’s best-kept secret spots
    • Daily life shared with a small, intentional group of like-minded quilters

  • TIMELINE & TRANSPARENCY

    • A $500 USD deposit secures your spot today. This is refundable until shortly after the final tour dates and pricing are confirmed.
    • Final costs and exact dates will be announced by the end of 2025.
    • The Plan: Once the full tour is released, your initial deposit is applied to the balance. Remaining costs are split into two manageable payments (2nd deposit and final balance).

  • WHAT'S INCLUDED

    • 11 nights in premium western-style hotels (Single occupancy with private bath)
    • All workshops, tour activities, and entrance fees
    • Breakfast every day, lunch on tour days, plus a curated Welcome and Farewell dinner
    • Transportation on all scheduled tour days and professional Japanese Guides.

  • WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

    • International flights to/from Japan
    • Travel insurance (required for all travelers)
    • Free-time activities and meals outside the group schedule (optional)

  • what stays the same, no matter the destination:

    I’ve always believed that the best way to understand a craft is to see the grit, the history, and the intentionality behind it. That’s why every Textile Tour is built on a specific set of standards designed for makers who value creative rebellion over the typical tourist path.

    • We don't just watch from the sidelines; we step into the studios for workshops with master artisans.
    • Every tour has limited space for like-minded makers to ensure the connection is real and the experience is personal.
    • We value the adventurous spirit. You’ll always have space for your own independent exploration.
    • From private artist visits to guided fabric shopping, you get the "backstage pass" to the local textile scene.

  • a friendly note for the adventurous:

    These expeditions are designed for adventurous spirits who are physically active, flexible, and ready for an immersive experience.

    Textile Tours would be the best fit for those who are:

    • Comfortable walking at a steady 3-mph pace for up to an hour and navigating new surroundings unassisted.
    • Ready for daily walks—guests should be able to get up and down unassisted for floor seating and enjoy meals using chopsticks.
    • Excited to learn local etiquette and greetings to enrich the journey for everyone.
    • Enjoy independent discovery and a small-group dynamic built on kindness and punctuality.
    • Understand that while we aim for comfort, we prioritize authentic experiences over highly familiar surroundings.

where tradition meets the cutting edge.

I’ve always believed that to truly evolve as makers, we need to get up close with the history and the grit of how things are actually made. Japan is the ultimate destination for that—a place where geometry, intentionality, and ancient technique collide in the most electric way.

This isn’t a curated "sightseeing" trip. It’s a backstage pass for the adventurous spirits who want to see the process behind the art. We’re going to step inside private artist studios, take hands-on workshops with master artisans, and get lost in the stacks of world-class fabric shops.

I’m keeping this group intentionally small—just 10 of us. I want to connect with a squad of like-minded makers who value creative courage and the beauty of independent discovery. We aren't just here to watch; we’re here to be inspired by the grit and the precision of a culture that respects its roots but isn't afraid to innovate.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What if I am unable to attend after I put down a deposit?

Deposits are non-refundable but transferable. If your plans change, you can transfer your spot to another rebel maker.

Is there a payment plan available?

Yes! Review the Timeline & Transparency section of the event for the full payment plan details.

How do I know if this tour is the right fit for me?

Read the "Friendly Note" above—twice. This trip is for the adventurous. Once you've placed your deposit, I’ll reach out for a one-on-one discussion to make sure our vibes and expectations align before we finalize everything.

What about the "hidden" costs?

Your deposit and final balance cover the "on-the-ground" magic (hotels, workshops, guides, and most meals). You’ll be responsible for your international flights, travel insurance, and any personal shopping or "free day" excursions.

I have a specific dietary need—can you accommodate me?

We’ll do our best to communicate preferences to our local hosts, but Japan can be tricky. We cannot guarantee vegan, gluten-free, or MSG-free meals. If you have strict requirements, this might not be the best fit for your journey.

What if the tour is sold out?

Plans sometimes change! Join the waitlist and I will notify you if a space opens up:

JOIN THE TEXTILE TOUR WAITLIST

What if November does not work for my schedule?

You can check out my friend Nancy's Kyoto Textile Tours which she does twice a year in May and in October. She has been running textile tours for over 20 years and is a wonderful host! To find out more, head over to kyotokimono.com.