Tours

The Yamagata “Benibana” Safflower has been treasured by the prefecture for centuries and is highly prized for its rich natural crimson hues. The safflower is often used for the dyeing of fabrics and textiles across Japan such as the shrine garments worn at  Ise Grand Shrine, the holiest shrine in Japan. Another popular usage of the pigments made from the safflower is the red lip tint of maiko and geishas.

This experience starts with picking the benibana flowers as local farmers have been doing for centuries. After picking for thirty minutes or so (or until you feel content), you will learn more about the pigmentation process by making “Beni-mochi” or “pigment pucks” out of the flowers. Although the beni-mochi you made won’t be ready in time for you to use, you’ll then use the beni-mochi from the other day to dye your handkerchief.

By folding, twisting, stamping, and manipulating the fabric, you’ll turn a plain piece of fabric into a bright red masterpiece! No two handkerchiefs are quite the same and after it dries, you can bring it home as a memory that will last a lifetime!

This experience is great for adults or kids and is a wonderful way to meet and talk with local people while engaging in a practice that has been passed down through the generations.

Proceeds from this experience go directly back into maintaining and preserving this traditional culture and making sure that Benibana Yamagata Safflower Culture has a sustainable future here in Yamagata.