Aizenkobo Indigo Place — Local services in Kyoto

Aizenkobo Indigo Place was absolutely wonderful to visit. I had done research looking for traditional indigo dyed fabric by the meter, and was unable to find anything throughout my travels that felt promising enough to take the time to venture to or authentic enough to invest in, until I found Aizenkobo. My expectations were exceeded. Despite not knowing as much about the process as I’d like, I greatly value the tradition, time, intention, and skill required for this craft and am willing to compensate accordingly or understand if it is beyond my budget. The shop had a surprising amount of price points, though! From yarn and thread under 1,000 yen, to ready to wear garb that I can only dream of buying—I could splurge on myself while also being able to purchase small gifts for friends that also appreciate textiles. The family that runs this (specifically the son), so generously shared information about the process, Japanese philosophy and so much more (and did so in English which is beyond accommodating). I was so enthralled with the beautiful handiwork and his wealth of knowledge, that we forgot to exchange names (if you’re reading this-so sorry!) I spent much more on multiple meters of fabric, two button up shirts, and thread than I expected, but not because prices were higher than I imagined. Instead, it was because I felt that all the money I’d saved for “souvenirs” on my trip would be best spent on the items that hold the tradition, fine craft, and magical chemistry found at Aizenkobo, so I couldn’t cut myself off! I have slight regret that I didn’t also buy a table/dresser runner that was made of some stunning fabric woven by his grandfather.. But I can’t wait to work with the fabric and make some new clothing that I’ll add, along with the readymade shirts, to my wardrobe as classic staples that will remind me of this lovely interaction for many...

If you end up visiting this store and feel uncomfortable or even offended by the owner’s behavior—don’t take it personally. You’re probably not alone.

Here’s what happened to me: I picked up a skein of silk thread, and the owner immediately launched into a lecture about silk production, the decline of silkworms, and the toxicity of indigo. As someone genuinely interested in textiles, I asked a couple of questions—only to be met with long-winded, often preachy monologues comparing “Japanese ways of living” to what he called “White Caucasian ways of living,” complete with sweeping generalizations and subtle digs at foreigners.

I didn’t mind at first. I had time, and some parts of the conversation about indigo were genuinely informative. But things shifted when he began complaining about how me and other foreigners “always ask too many questions and take too much of his time”—which felt odd, since he was the one who kept the conversation going. I apologized to him and asked his name in a very friendly way, he used it as another excuse to scold me, saying that in Japan, people don’t ask store owners for their names. And this part happened while I was trying to pay and leave!

To make things even more confusing: although the shop clearly doesn’t seem to welcome foreigners, they do have an English-language information sheet. The contradiction just added to the overall strangeness of the experience. It left me thinking the owner is simply a conflicted person—perhaps carrying some deep-seated bitterness, and unfortunately passing that negative energy on to his customers.

If you’re sensitive to energy or just want to avoid unnecessary negativity during your trip, I’d recommend...

My experience in Aizenkobo Indigo Place / workshop and boutique was truly awful. My opinion does not refer however to the elderly couple that was also present at the time of my visit. The couple is fine. The middle-aged man (the son perhaps?) who welcomed me was extremely rude and patronising. He showed no respect. His aim? to prove that he is a know-it-all about Indigo even when unasked. He tailed me while I was checking the items. Like an uncomfortable shadow. I have lived in Japan for a very long time and I have never, ever, encountered anyone as unpleasant as him. He was beyond rude.

As for the prices goes, they were absurd, and yes, I do know about Indigo. I assure you that you can find better indigo garments and prices in Tokyo and in smaller villages where this traditions still live on.

On top of that he has managed to censor (after many attempts, because my report was honest) my opinion on TripAdvisor.

My advise: don't waste your time or money here if you have some respect...