This is an opportunity to witness first-hand the intricate step-by-step process by which the panels of a kimono are first designed, hand-dyed using the Kyo-Yuzen techniques, and then hand-sewn to form the completed kimono. The company we visit is one of Kyoto’s oldest kimono makers, specialising in particularly high-end kimono (some of which have been purchased by Japan’s imperial family). The company also has on display some very rare, antique Kyo-Yuzen kimono which allow you to appreciate earlier designs favoured by Kyoto’s aristocratic families.