About Nishijin-ori
A traditional textile passed down for over 1,000 years
Nishijin-ori is one of Japan’s most famous traditional textiles, passed down in Kyoto for more than 1,000 years.
The name “Nishijin” comes from the Ōnin War in 1467.
After the war, the textile industry developed in the area where the Western Army (“Nishijin”) had been based, and the textiles produced there became known as Nishijin-ori.
Nishijin-ori is known for its detailed patterns, rich texture, and elegant three-dimensional designs created with fine silk threads.
It has long been used for kimono obi belts, traditional clothing, and Noh costumes.
One of its special techniques is “pre-dyed weaving,” where the threads are dyed before weaving.
This allows artisans to create deep, detailed, and highly complex patterns.
Nishijin-ori is not only beautiful, but also durable, and has been loved for generations as a high-quality textile.
Delicate craftsmanship created through specialized work
Nishijin-ori is not made by just one artisan.
Many different specialists work together through separate steps such as pattern design, thread making, dyeing, warping, pattern planning, and weaving.
Each process requires years of training and skill.
For example, one important process is called “Sōkō,” where artisans carefully pass each warp thread through a jacquard loom one by one.
Because this work requires extreme precision and concentration, it is done by highly skilled specialists who spend years mastering the technique.
In addition to jacquard weaving, there is also traditional hand weaving.
Hand weaving artisans even shape and roughen their fingernails to catch threads more easily, showing how deeply their skills become part of their daily lives.
Through these many detailed processes and the craftsmanship of each artisan, Nishijin-ori achieves its elegant patterns, rich texture, and refined beauty.
Miyako and Nishijin-ori
Miyako creates dog accessories using the delicate and elegant beauty of Nishijin-ori.
From special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and photo shoots, to ordinary everyday moments, we hope our items bring a small sense of joy and beauty into life with your beloved dog.
Miyako works together with Kano-ko (Certificate No. 440), a long-established Nishijin textile company registered with the Nishijin Textile Industrial Association.
Founded in 1889, Kano-ko is known for its highly skilled weaving techniques and beautiful textile designs passed down through generations.
Miyako hopes to carry the beauty of Nishijin-ori into the future in a new and meaningful way.