1. What is the plant dyeing workshop, Kameya?

Kusakizome Kobo Kameya is a dyeing workshop quietly nestled in Hirashimizu, a town with a long history of pottery making dating back to the Edo period.

Just a few minutes’ drive from the shop is a vast field that was created from scratch by hand, reflecting the owner’s desire to “dye with things he has grown himself.”

They practice a naturally sustainable manufacturing method, growing plants and trees without using pesticides and returning the dyed plants and water back to the soil. This approach has been highly praised, including receiving the Good Design Award.

You might be a little surprised when you stop by the store.

The brightly colored products are not displayed outside; they are all quietly stored inside traditional Japanese chests of drawers.

This is to protect the delicate natural colors, which are not produced using any chemical dyes, from light.

When you open the drawer, you’ll be greeted by breathtakingly beautiful, once-in-a-lifetime colors dyed onto Yamagata silk and handmade Japanese paper.

2. Activity Report

This time, I enjoyed a leisurely stroll through a dye field in the countryside, along with a pesticide-free fresh herbal tea and a luxurious hand bath experience!

① Stroll through a dye field of approximately 3,300 square meters

After gathering at the workshop, we are guided by the shop staff to a vast dye field that spans approximately 3,300 square meters.

Here, more than 200 types of plants are grown without pesticides, including dye plants such as indigo and safflower, as well as herbs such as chamomile and thyme.

First, take a leisurely stroll through the vast dye fields.

As we walked around, the shopkeeper explained the plants and trees to us, and there was a lot of variety I’d never heard of before. It was a fascinating experience, both to see and to listen to.

for example,

“This tree has white, handkerchief-like flowers that bloom on its branches. That’s why it’s called the ‘handkerchief tree’ or the ‘ghost tree’.”

“This is a herb called ‘lamb’s ear,’ and if you touch it, you’ll see it’s soft like a ‘lamb’s ear.'”

It wasn’t just about walking; being able to explore while learning about the background of each plant and tree made the experience even more enjoyable.

Furthermore, the fields have toilets and gazebos where you can rest, creating a safe and relaxing environment.

Toilet

② Organic fresh herbal tea 

After our stroll, we enjoyed a herbal tea experience.

The colorful herbs on display are so beautiful that just looking at them lifts my spirits a little .

You can choose any herb you like from this selection. What a wonderful experience!

A luxurious experience made possible only by the freshness of freshly harvested produce.

The flowers on display change with the seasons, which is another point to enjoy.

Choose your favorite herbs and put them into your own teapot.

How does this look? And with that, my original herbal tea is complete!

Pour in the hot water, wait a little, then take a sip.

Drinking herbal tea outdoors after walking through the fields felt especially refreshing.

The participants were clearly very satisfied, taking lots of photos in between activities and saying things like, “This is a luxurious experience. “

Since different people choose different herbs, the resulting flavors and aromas are a fascinating aspect of the dish.

Unlike the dried herbal teas I usually drink, this one was visually vibrant and I could really appreciate the freshness of it.

I heard that it’s very popular with customers coming from the Kanto region, and I really felt that it’s a unique experience that can only be found here.

③ A luxurious hand bath enveloped in natural fragrances. 

Furthermore, a special treat unique to this plan is a luxurious hand bath filled with plenty of fresh herbs and flowers.

This time, they prepared the chamomile for us on the spot.

Tear the freshly picked chamomile petals and put them in a bowl.

At this point, a gentle fragrance is already spreading, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

When you put your hand in, it feels pleasantly warm and quite soothing.

When you scoop up the flowers with your hands, their fragrance gently spreads, providing a sense of healing not only visually but also through scent.

Afterwards, other flowers were added, and the hand bath became increasingly vibrant.

It was truly an experience of being “surrounded by flowers,” a simple yet incredibly luxurious time.

3. Message

We have a message for everyone reading VISIT YAMAGATA.

“What we want you to value most is actually coming to this place, breathing in the air of the fields, and touching the plants to feel healed.

The maintenance of this vast field begins every year in March, when it’s still chilly, and continues every day. Because it’s so large, we have to weed the field about four times a year. During the hot summer months, we aim to work in the cool early morning hours.

People sometimes say, ‘That must be tough,’ but I actually enjoy it. The time I spend touching the soil and interacting with plants is very important to me.

Please come and relax in our lovingly cultivated dye fields, and let us soothe your daily fatigue. We look forward to seeing you.”

4. Summary

What I realized through this experience was the comfort of spending time slowly in nature.

Immerse yourself in the scent of plants and the sound of the wind, stroll leisurely, savor the herbs, and relax by dipping your hands in the water.

This is an experience that’s a little different from a typical tourist trip; it’s about enjoying the “time spent” there.

This is highly recommended for anyone who wants to take a break from their busy daily life and refresh themselves. Please give it a try!

5. Application

Date and time
Activity period
May to June (Closed on Wednesdays)
*Subject to change depending on weather and field conditions.

Activity start time
10:30
*
Meeting Place and Access
Meeting time
10:15

Meeting place
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
(151 Hirashimizu, Yamagata City, 990-2401 Japan)
*After gathering at the store, a staff member will lead you to the dye field.
If you do not have a car, we can provide transportation.
*
Activity fee (per person)
● For 2 participants: 6,500 yen (tax included)
● For groups of 3 to 6 people: 5,000 yen (tax included)
*
Number of people in the reservation
2 to 6 people per reservation
*
Contact
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
151 Hirashimizu, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture 990-2401
Phone number: 023-625-7736
Hours: 10:30~16:00
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Click here for the official website ☜

6. Other Recommended Activities

① Activity making the Seven Lucky Gods seasonal decorations

This auspicious ornament is made by combining seven cocoons, gold and silver mizuhiki (decorative cords), and Gassan Japanese paper, with a “red-dyed cocoon” at its center, which symbolizes celebration and protection against evil.

Why not try making a heartwarming, handmade item that will be a comforting presence not only for the start of the year but also for other important milestones in your life?

It’s perfect for yourself, and also makes a wonderful gift for someone special.

Date and time
Activity period
Open year-round (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)

Activity start time
① 10:30~
② 14:00~
*If you would like to request a time outside of the above hours, please contact us.
*
Activity fee (per person)
5,500 yen (tax included)
(Includes materials and experience fee / Create one Seven Lucky Gods item)
*
Number of people in the reservation
2 to 6 people per reservation
*
Contact
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
151 Hirashimizu, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture 990-2401
Phone number: 023-625-7736
Hours: 10:30~16:00
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Click here for the official website ☜

② Visit to the Kameya Plant Dyeing Workshop and Warehouse Exhibition Hall

While viewing valuable materials such as safflower-dyed kimonos, Edo-period children’s kimonos, and lipstick, we will discuss the history, culture, and meaning of safflower, including “How did safflower arrive in Japan?” and “Why has it attracted people?”

Standing before a safflower-dyed kimono, why not let your thoughts wander to the profound world of safflower?

We will explain the following while you view them in the storehouse exhibition hall.

• A kimono dyed with a precious red color, which accounts for only 1% of 100% of safflower pigment.
• Children’s kimono from the Edo period
• Lipstick made from safflower
• The Origin, History, and Culture of Safflower
• The meaning of the red pigment

*Please refrain from touching the exhibits, as safflower dyes are very delicate and sensitive to light.

Date and time
Activity period
Held year-round
(Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)

Activity start time
① 10:30~
② 14:00~
*If you would like to request a time outside of the above hours, please contact us.
*
Activity fee (per person)
1,000 yen (tax included, includes souvenir)
*
Number of people in the reservation
3 to 8 people per reservation
*
Contact
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
151 Hirashimizu, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture 990-2401
Phone number: 023-625-7736
Hours: 10:30~16:00
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Click here for the official website ☜

③ Indigo leaf dyeing activity using materials from Yamagata Prefecture

This experience involves harvesting fresh indigo leaves grown in a dye field and dyeing a silk shawl in a gentle light blue using the “fresh indigo leaf dyeing” method.

Indigo dyeing includes two methods: “indigo vat dyeing,” which uses fermented dye, and “fresh leaf dyeing,” which uses fresh leaves.

In this plan, you will experience “fresh leaf dyeing,” which uses only fresh indigo leaves and water to bring out vibrant and translucent colors.

You can also enjoy strolling through the dye fields and harvesting herbs, and we’ll even provide a tea time with herbs picked that morning in between activities!

It’s a special moment where you can leisurely enjoy nature and craftsmanship.

Date and time
Activity period
Late August to early October (Closed on Wednesdays)
* May vary depending on leaf growth.
Activity start time
10:30
*
Meeting Place and Access
Meeting time
10:15

Meeting place
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
*After gathering at the store, a staff member will lead you to the dye field. Transportation is available if you do not have a car.
*
Activity fee (per person)
・For one participant: 40,000 yen (tax included)
・For 2 participants: 25,000 yen (tax included)
・For groups of 3-6 people: 22,000 yen (tax included)
*Please contact us if you require a group of 6 or more.
*
Number of people in the reservation
1 to 6 people per reservation
*
Contact
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
151 Hirashimizu, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture 990-2401
Phone number: 023-625-7736
Hours: 10:30~16:00
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Click here for the official website ☜

④ Safflower dyeing activity using materials from Yamagata Prefecture

This is a special activity where you can dye a silk shawl in a beautiful crimson color using the traditional safflower dyeing method, which utilizes the safflower flower that is the official flower of Yamagata Prefecture.

The tour also includes a walk through dye fields, allowing you to connect with nature while listening to explanations about plants and herbs.

After your stroll, take a break with our original herbal tea made with fresh herbs picked that morning from the dye fields!

This is a luxurious activity unique to Yamagata, where you can feel both nature and culture.

Date and time
Activity period
Open year-round (closed on Wednesdays)
*Subject to change depending on weather and field conditions.

Activity start time
10:30
*
Meeting Place and Access
Meeting time
10:15

Meeting place
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
*After gathering at the store, a staff member will lead you to the dye field.
If you do not have a car, we can provide transportation.
*
Activity fee (per person)
・For one participant: 40,000 yen (tax included)
・For 2 participants: 25,000 yen (tax included)
・For groups of 3-6 people: 22,000 yen (tax included)
*Please contact us if you require a group of 6 or more.
*
■Number of reservations
1 to 6 people per reservation
*
Contact
Plant Dyeing Workshop Kameya
151 Hirashimizu, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture 990-2401
Phone number: 023-625-7736
Hours: 10:30 – 16:00
Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Click here for the official website ☜