Core Kyoto
Season 9, Episode 5: Tango Chirimen: The Finest Texture in Silk Crepe
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The Tango district in northern Kyoto Pref. is Japan's largest producer of a supple fabric, supplying 60% of the kimono industry. The elegantly crimped texture makes it easy to dye. But with the proliferation of Western clothing, production has dropped to as far as 3% of the industry's heyday. The pandemic was an additional blow. Young artisans are exploring new materials to capture the world. Discover how this 300-year-old textile evolved and its ties with the ancient capital.
All Episodes - Season 9
Episode 1
Conversations: A Nishijin Textile Producer & An Architect
Episode 2
The Forests of Keihoku: Nature's Blessings Sustain the Ancient Capital
Episode 3
Conversations: The Enduring Pride of Two Venerable Families
Episode 4
Life in a Machiya: The Appreciation of Nature and Time
Episode 5
Tango Chirimen: The Finest Texture in Silk Crepe
Episode 6
Conversations: A Landscape Gardener and a Glass Artist
Episode 7
Okudo-san: Traditional Cooking Stoves
Episode 8
Karakami: Ornamental Paper with Timeless Beauty
Episode 9
Higashiyama Potters: Creativity in Clay Connects the Ages
Episode 10
The World of Moss: Soothing Beauty, Subtle yet Refined
Episode 11
Wire Netting Utensils: Practical, Superbly Handwoven Beauty
Episode 12
Kyoto Breweries: Aromatic Tipples to Suit the Times
Episode 13
Taiko Drums: The Pulsing Heartbeat of Life
Episode 14
Calligraphy for the Times: The Resonating Power of Ink
Episode 15
Tokonoma: Alcoves of Reverence and Welcoming Beauty
Episode 16
Beans: Versatile, Practical, and Cultural
Episode 17
Dramatic Masks: Embodiments of Prayers to the Spirit World