Fukiya Furusato Village in Takahashi City , Okayama Prefecture , is a beautiful, historic town known as the birthplace of "Japan Red." In this village, where traditional Japanese architecture and culture remain strong, why not enjoy a dyeing experience using the natural pigment red ochre and discover the charm of Japan?
2025.01.07-
Table of contents
- A special moment to experience traditional culture in a Japanese Heritage town
- What is Bengara?
- Bengala dyeing experience
- Highlights of Fukiya Furusato Village
- access
- Experience traditional Japanese culture
A special moment to experience traditional culture in a Japanese Heritage town
Fukiya Furusato Village in Takahashi City , Okayama Prefecture , is a valuable cultural heritage area that preserves the historic townscape that flourished from the 18th century to the late 19th century thanks to copper and bengara (iron oxide pigment). The village's distinctive copper-colored Sekishu roofing tiles and rows of bengara-colored buildings are a beautiful example of Japan's Hara landscape. In 2020, it was designated a Japan Heritage Site as the "Birthplace of Japan Red."
What is Bengara?
Bengala is a natural pigment made from iron, and its vibrant red color has been used to dye buildings and fabrics. Fukiya Furusato Village was once the center of bengala production in Japan, and that culture and technology are still passed down today.
Bengala dyeing experience
If you visit Fukiya Furusato Village , you should definitely try the Bengala dyeing experience. Dyeing with natural pigments is environmentally friendly and can be enjoyed by beginners.
Flow of the experience
・A craftsman will give a brief explanation of the history of Bengala and dyeing methods.
- Choose items such as scarves and handkerchiefs and dye them with your own designs.
- After coloring, let it dry and you can take home your one-of-a-kind original work as a wonderful memory.
The experience can be enjoyed in a short time of about 15 to 30 minutes, so it is recommended for short trips. The price is reasonable, starting from 1,800 yen for a handkerchief, so you can easily participate.
The Bengala dyeing experience requires advance reservations and can be made by phone or email. Same-day reservations may be possible, but it is recommended that you inquire in advance.
Reservation phone number: 090-8999-0477
Email: bengara.yahaci@gmail.com
Hours: 11:00-16:00, irregular holidays
Venue: Fukiya Information Center, Shitamachi Furatto, 890 Fukiya, Nariwa-cho, Nariwa Town Takahashi City
Highlights of Fukiya Furusato Village
After your dyeing experience, be sure to take a stroll around the village. Recommended spots are listed below.
Former Katayama Family Residence
This restored merchant's house from the Edo period is a place where you can learn about the history of Fukiya.
Former Fukiya Elementary School
It is famous as the oldest wooden school building in Japan and is still open to the public.
Bengala Museum
There are plenty of exhibits to teach you about the manufacturing process of bengara.
access
Location: Fukiya, Okayama Prefecture -cho, Nariwa Town Takahashi City
Access: Approximately 40 minutes by car from JR Hakubi Line's Bitchu-Takahashi Station, or approximately 55 minutes by bus bound for Fukiya (get off at the last stop). By car, it is approximately 30 minutes from Niimi IC on the Chugoku Expressway via Prefectural Route 33.
Experience traditional Japanese culture
The Bengala dyeing experience at Fukiya Furusato Village is a special experience that allows you to experience traditional Japanese culture while taking in the historic townscape. The dyeing process, which uses natural materials that are environmentally friendly, is gentle on both the body and mind, and allows you to create one-of-a-kind memories.
Be sure to visit Fukiya Furusato Village and experience the charm of Japan Red!
The contents on this page may partially contain automatic translation.