Experience Biei blue dyeing! Indigo Dyeing” Theme Park by Mizuno Dyeing Factory

The Series of Daisetsuzan 100″ – This is a special feature that carefully selects 100 must-do, fascinating activities that can be enjoyed in the nine cities and towns centered around Daisetsuzan National Park, the roof of Hokkaido.

Mizuno Dyeing Factory, established in 1907, operates
You can enjoy an indigo dyeing experience at “Aizome Yunomori” in Biei-cho.

What is Aizome?

Aizome is a traditional dyeing technique that has been popular since ancient times.

The name “aizome” comes from the fact that the color is dyed using a plant that contains indigo pigment.
The leaves used for indigo dyeing (takara) are called aizome.

Leaves used for indigo dyeing (Tade indigo)

Of the plants that contain indigo pigment, the most common in Japan are
Tade-ai, a variety from the Tadeshika family (Tadeshika).

Tade-i is used in East Asia, including Japan.
It has a basil-like appearance.

Dyeing Methods

There are two types of indigo dyeing.

The first is a technique called “ai-denkaku.
Dyeing is done with dye solution made by fermenting the leaves.

This is the technique that generally comes to mind.
It can be dyed all year round and produces deep blue or dark blue dyes.

The second technique is called “raw leaf dyeing.
Dyeing is done with dye solution made from fresh leaves.

This technique is limited to summer when fresh leaves are available.
It is characterized by its bright and vivid sky blue hue.

Let’s try dyeing!

This time, we will introduce the indigo dyeing experience of “Ai Shikken”!

(1) Imagine the pattern you want to dye and create it.
　　　Fold the fabric, roll it up, and use rubber bands to make it stronger or weaker.
　　　(2) Put the fabric in water and pull out the air.

(2) Place the fabric in water to remove air.

(3) Place the fabric in the dye solution and wait one minute,
　　　The cloth turns green!

(4) Remove the cloth from the dye solution and let it air dry.
　　　(4) Remove the cloth from the dye solution and let it air dry!

(5) Then, wash and dry the cloth to complete the process!

Indigo is not just for dyeing!

At Aizome Yuyu no Mori, we don’t just use indigo as a dye.
We use indigo not only as a dye but also for other purposes.
We also use it for other purposes, and showcase the many charms of indigo.

Take our café for example!

Aizome Yui no Mori has a café/communication space on the second floor.
Here, you can enjoy indigo tea and sweets made from indigo.

Another highlight is the “Blue Hill” located behind the facility!

The benches painted with indigo are called “blue rings.
Visitors can sit on the benches and enjoy the view of Biei in a relaxed atmosphere.

Indigo has a strong image as a dye, but it is surprising that it can be used for many other purposes.
It is surprising to know that it can be used for many other purposes as well!

The indigo dyeing theme park is located in Biei-cho, a town rich in nature!
Please come and experience the charm of indigo!

Aizome Yui no Mori
[Address] 071-0474
　　　Aza Takushin, Biei-cho, Hokkaido (across from Takushinkan, Biei-cho)
[Period] All year
[Business hours] 10:00 – 17:00 (10:00 – 15:00 from December to March)
[Inquiries] 0166-74-8855