Meisen silk textile makers seek collaboration with other businesses

Japanese silk fabric is world famous and Chichibu Meisen is a type of Japanese silk fabric, that is characterized by its unique technique called Hogushi-nassen weaving and dyeing, is a patented method. The textiles are finished with iridescent luster in mostly plant patterns which is a characteristic feature of the textiles, which once took the world of women’s fashion by storm. Producers of Chichibu-meisen silk textiles are seeking collaborations with other businesses to expand opportunities for the textile.

Meisen silk textile was once an essential industry in the Chichibu area in Saitama Prefecture and designated in 2013 as a national traditional craft by the government.

A tour was organized in mid-July by the Chichibu city employment creation council for businesses to visit local textile producers. The idea is to get various industries involved with the aim of joint development of products or hosting of events, and other commercial opportunities.

During the tour, those engaged in various industries participated and visited five textile producers in the city, including Arakei Textile, a textile company established in 1970, they manufacture fabric which is often used for products such as kimonos, sitting cushions (zabutons), and futons using a special technique called “Hogushi Ori”(untangling weaving).

It is said that the sericulture skills took root in Chichibu during the Nara period. Ever since, the area has been one of the biggest producers of silk and eventually, developed into a huge weaving industry by the Edo period. Later, textiles known as the “Chichibu Meisen” which was made using the Hogushi Ori became popular nation-wide.