From Kimono to Couture: Discovering Tokyo's Fashion Heritage & Modern Scene

The day begins with a kimono remake and obi-making workshop in Koto-Ku, where students learn traditional crafting techniques firsthand. They then change into kimono/yukata with guidance from professional dressers and explore the historic district of Asakusa. This immersive experience deepens their understanding of the cultural and historical significance of traditional Japanese clothing, laying a foundation for comparative fashion analysis.

A guided tour of Harajuku and Shimokitazawa exposes students to Tokyo's bold street fashion, vintage culture, and subcultural aesthetics. By engaging in a fashion contest with pieces sourced locally, students practice trend-spotting, personal styling, and consumer behaviour analysis, gaining insight into Japan's influence on global fashion trends.

Students visit the Bunka Gakuen Costume Museum, home to a renowned collection of garments and accessories. This visit offers a historical perspective on fashion evolution across cultures. In the afternoon, students participate in a workshop creating personalised T-shirts or bags using traditional Japanese dyeing methods, applying cultural appreciation through creative practice.

The day begins with an indigo dyeing workshop, allowing students to explore sustainability in traditional textile production. In the afternoon, they meet professionals at the Tokyo Fashion Design Council to learn about fashion business models, innovation, and career pathways in Japan. This direct engagement provides valuable real-world insights into the structure and values of the Japanese fashion industry.

After breakfast, the group transfers to the airport. Students leave with a deeper understanding of Japanese fashion through cultural immersion, hands-on learning, and professional exposure, enriching both their academic and creative development.