Tokyo Great Quilt Festival, Japan

with Karin Hellaby
15-day Tour

19 to 31 January 2013 Ref: 13003
Price: £4395 per person (twin share); Single supplement: £685

The Land of the Rising Sun, a fascinating fusion of old and new: a mix of the ultra modern and an ancient culture, where soaring skyscrapers and the latest hi-tech innovations sit side-by-side with historic pagodas and shrines, and deeprooted cultural and religious beliefs . Not forgetting that Japan has a long history of textiles excellence – which could make this superb holiday the trip of a lifetime for quilters, patchwork and embroidery aficionados alike.

Starting out at Tokyo’s Great Quilt Festival, this tour takes you on a mesmeric path around the very best that Japan has to offer in terms of textiles and sights. You’ll be astonished by the finesse demonstrated in the work of some of Japan’s finest quilters at the Quilt Festival. You’ll also have the chance to see the technique of Yuzon silk dyeing, watch how ‘Nishijin-ori’ textiles are produced, have a go at Shibori fabric dyeing – plus try on a kimono for size.

Then there’s Tokyo, Hiroshima, Kyoto and Mount Fuji to explore – all via the comfort of Japan’s famed Bullet Train. Tokyo and Kyoto encapsulate both Japan’s ancient history, with their shrines, temples and geishas, and its modern face as a major economy. Mount Fuji and its surrounds are typical of the country’s physical beauty, and Hiroshima is never to be forgotten. Likewise, this trip will stay in your memory forever.