Indigo dyeing process of Matsusaka cotton

Matsusaka cotton indigo-dyeing is a traditional weaving technique that has continued for more than 400 years since the Edo period (1603-1868), and has been designated as a prefectural traditional craft by Mie Prefecture.

Matsusaka cotton is said to have its roots in the fact that this area was once one of the leading spinning and weaving centers in Japan, and was obliged to dedicate its cotton fabrics to the Ise Shrine, which is located near the production center.

During the Edo period (1603-1867), the castle area of Matsusaka flourished as a merchant town.
The "Matsusaka merchants," who mainly dealt in Matsusaka cotton, were among the first to set up store in Edo (Tokyo) and are said to have achieved tremendous sales of over 500,000 tons per year. (Half the population of Edo at that time).

Today, there is only one Matsusaka cotton weaving company, but it still continues to produce indigo-dyed fabrics as in the past.
The indigo dye process is called "liuchu-shibori," in which the threads are repeatedly dipped into an indigo jar dug underground and dyed.

The video is a highlight of the process, so please watch it first.