Yumihama Traditional Resist-dyed Textiles (Yumihama-gasuri)

Yumihama-gasuri textiles from western Tottori feature deep indigo with beautiful, splashed patterns of white shining through

Production Area

Yonago City / Sakaiminato City / etc., Tottori Prefecture

Historical Details and Geographic Characteristics

The western part of Tottori Prefecture (formally called the Hoki Province) is known for producing cotton (hakushu cotton) due to its well-draining sandy soil. In addition to cotton and cotton yarn, the area is recognized for gasuri or splash-dye patterns.

Initially, the most prominent yumihama-gasuri was the striped pattern; however, from the Meiji period to the Taisho era, egasuri, or picture-like patterns, came to be. Using various artworks as a basis, these patterns allowed for more individual expression and were sold country-wide. Despite this, there was a decline in the art form due to the advancement of textile production and the invention of synthetic fiber.

From around 1970 onwards, efforts to preserve Japan’s designated Traditional Craft Products and the prefecture’s Intangible Cultural Properties commenced. Through this, the marvel of traditional handwoven textiles was rediscovered, propelling it into use in modern interiors and new miscellaneous goods.


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Main Retailer/Affiliated Museum

Asia Museum – Yasushi Inoue Memorial Hall

Address 57 Oshinozucho, Yonago City, Tottori Prefecture
Phone 0859-25-1251
Hours of Operation 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Closed Mondays (If the Monday falls on a holiday, the museum will close the following day)
Admission Fee Adults: 500 yen, High School / College Students: 300 yen,
Elementary / Middle School Students: 200 yen
URL http://www.yonago-navi.jp/yonago/yumigahama/sightseeing/asia-inoue-museum/

Map

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