Arimatsu - Image 1
1 / 10

Arimatsu Nagoya

4.6
·491k reviews·Nagoya, Japan

Arimatsu, Nagoya: A historic town famed for its centuries-old Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori tie-dyeing and beautifully preserved Edo-period streets.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Arimatsu - Image 1

Arimatsu Nagoya

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Arimatsu, Nagoya: A historic town famed for its centuries-old Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori tie-dyeing and beautifully preserved Edo-period streets.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Step back in time and immerse yourself in the vibrant artistry of Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historic streets and shops.

📅 Book Shibori Workshops Early

Popular tie-dyeing experiences fill up fast, especially during peak tourist times.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori Workshops

Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori Workshops

Various studios and cultural centers

Experience the magic of traditional Japanese tie-dyeing firsthand. Create your own unique shibori masterpiece to take home.

Historic Arimatsu Townscape

Historic Arimatsu Townscape

Arimatsu district

Stroll through beautifully preserved streets that echo with Edo-period history, showcasing traditional merchant houses.

Arimatsu Shibori Museum

Arimatsu Shibori Museum

Arimatsu

Discover the rich history and intricate artistry of Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori through fascinating exhibits.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Shibori Craftsmanship

Arimatsu is renowned for its centuries-old Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori tie-dye technique. Immerse yourself in this traditional craft by visiting workshops or exploring the historic townscape. Book experiences in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and learn this intricate art form. TikTokInstagram

Explore the Historic Townscape

Wander through Arimatsu's preserved streets, once a vital post town on the Tokaido road. Admire the traditional architecture and soak in the Edo-period atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes as you explore the charming alleys and discover hidden artisan shops. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn (October-November)
Why
Pleasant weather for walking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

CRAFT CHRONICLES ep.24 → Centuries of color, tied by hand Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori (Aichi) - Country Registered Craft Arimatsu was founded in the 1600s along the Tokaido route, Japan’s historic highway connecting Edo and Kyoto. With poor farmland, locals turned to craftsmanship instead. What emerged was *Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori*, a tie-dye technique so intricate that a single kimono can take over ...
@otofromtky
16.4K likes • 98.6K views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historic streets and shops. Instagram+1

📅 Book Shibori Workshops Early

Popular tie-dyeing experiences fill up fast, especially during peak tourist times. Instagram+1

名古屋のコスパ最強海鮮丼といえばこちら💁‍♂️ @ajifuku.arimatu 行列の出来る人気店なのにずっと薄利でやってるから人気が衰えない😳 最近は本ズワイ蟹が安く仕入れ出来るらしく新メニューの本ズワイ蟹丼🦀2,500円で食べられる🤤 蟹足8本、蟹爪2本、蟹身、蟹味噌、いくら、ネギトロ、玉子などボリュームも凄い😳 他にも最近色んなお店でみる特大岩牡蠣もあって、なんと1,100円の名古屋最安値で提供してくれてる🦪 びっくりするくらい安い🤭 平日の開店30分前に行ったけどすでに何人か待ってるお客さんがいて、帰る時も外に並んでた😳 波はあると思うけど最近また、混んで来てる印象だった! 店名 味福 📍〒458-0924 愛知県名古屋市緑区有松2623 🈺11時〜14時 17時〜21時 日曜定休日 Speaking of Nagoya's cost-effective seafood bow...
@gourmetemperor1
4.7K likes • 107.7K views
Arimatsu Tie-dye Experience in Nagoya Design your own tie-dye handkerchief “Tenugui” with local guides. −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− ◆Nagoya Tours◆ Customized Private Tour with 100% local friendly guides 📍Nagoya, Japan🇯🇵 https://nagoya-tours.com −−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−− #nagoya #nagoyatours #nagoyafood #nagoyasightseeing #nagoyatour #nagoyatourswithlocalguides #nagoyaprivateguide #nagoyaprivateto...
nagoyatours
3 likes • 264 views

📸 Capture the Charm

The traditional architecture and vibrant textiles make for stunning photo opportunities. Instagram+1

☔ Check Weather for Festivals

Outdoor events like the Arimatsu Festival can be canceled due to rain. Instagram

Welcome to Arimatsu 👘 My fascination with fabrics (especially shibori) lead me here and in case you didn’t know I was a fashion graduate and did textile studies so this is my kind of heaven 🥹 Arimatsu is a town in Aichi prefecture that was once part of the old Tokaido road known for its intricate tie-dyeing technique called “Arimatsu Narumi Shibori”. This craft has earned its spot as a designat...
arisachw
1.3K likes • 25.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the historic streets and shops. Instagram+1

📅 Book Shibori Workshops Early

Popular tie-dyeing experiences fill up fast, especially during peak tourist times. Instagram+1

📸 Capture the Charm

The traditional architecture and vibrant textiles make for stunning photo opportunities. Instagram+1

☔ Check Weather for Festivals

Outdoor events like the Arimatsu Festival can be canceled due to rain. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Arimatsu's authentic charm and the unique experience of Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori tie-dyeing. The preserved historic townscape offers a captivating glimpse into Edo-period Japan, while the hands-on workshops provide a memorable cultural immersion. Some visitors note that certain popular dining spots can have long queues, and festival events are weather-dependent.

What People Like

Authentic Shibori experiences
Preserved historic townscape
Traditional crafts and culture

What People Dislike

Long queues at popular restaurants
Festival cancellations due to weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Arimatsu is easily accessible from Nagoya Station. Take the Meitetsu Nagoya Line to Arimatsu Station, which takes approximately 20-30 minutes. From Arimatsu Station, it's a short walk to the historic district. Instagram

While there isn't a direct subway line to Arimatsu, it's well-connected by the Meitetsu Nagoya Line, which is a convenient rail option from central Nagoya. Instagram

Driving is possible, but parking can be limited in the historic district. Public transportation is generally recommended for a more relaxed experience. Instagram

The best way to explore Arimatsu is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to wander through the charming streets and discover its hidden gems. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Arimatsu is a perfect day trip from Nagoya, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese crafts and history. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The town itself is free to explore. However, specific workshops, museums, or special exhibitions may require admission fees. It's advisable to check in advance for any specific attractions you plan to visit. Instagram+1

Opening hours can vary. Generally, shops and workshops are open during typical business hours, often from around 10 AM to 5 PM. Some restaurants may have different hours, like the popular Ajifuku mentioned for its seafood. TikTok

The cost for a Shibori tie-dye experience can vary depending on the duration and what you create. A handkerchief (tenugui) experience might cost around 1200 JPY. Instagram+1

No, exploring the historic Arimatsu townscape is free. You can wander through the streets and admire the traditional architecture without any entry fee. Instagram+1

While some places might accommodate walk-ins, it's highly recommended to book Shibori workshops in advance, especially for popular experiences or if you have a specific date in mind. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The entire historic townscape is a photographer's dream, with its traditional wooden buildings and narrow streets. Look for unique textile patterns and the vibrant indigo dyes. Instagram+1

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask for permission from the staff or instructors before taking extensive photos, especially if it might disrupt the experience for others. Instagram+1

There are usually no specific restrictions on general photography in the town. However, be mindful of private residences and businesses. Instagram

A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, will work well. Consider a lens that can capture both wide streetscapes and detailed textile patterns. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric photos. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Arimatsu offers a range of dining options. For a unique experience, consider Ajifuku, known for its popular and affordable seafood dishes, especially its large king crab. TikTok

While specific vegetarian restaurants might be limited, many Japanese eateries offer vegetable-based dishes like tempura or vegetable stir-fries. It's always best to inquire about ingredients. TikTok

While Arimatsu is famous for its Shibori textiles, the local dining scene includes fresh seafood, as highlighted by the popular restaurant Ajifuku. TikTok

Dining prices can vary. Restaurants like Ajifuku offer very affordable options, with some dishes costing around 1,100 to 2,500 JPY, making it quite budget-friendly. TikTok

Yes, you can find charming cafes within the historic district, perfect for a break while exploring. They often serve traditional Japanese sweets and tea. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Arimatsu offers a unique cultural experience that can be engaging for families. The Shibori tie-dye workshops are a highlight, allowing children to get hands-on with a traditional craft and create their own colorful souvenirs. Instagram+2

Exploring the historic townscape is also enjoyable for families, with plenty of interesting sights and the opportunity to learn about Japan's past. Encourage kids to look for unique patterns on the buildings and textiles. While dining, look for family-friendly eateries that offer simple, appealing dishes. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there will be a lot of walking.

🎨 Art & Craft Enthusiasts

For those passionate about textiles and traditional crafts, Arimatsu is a must-visit. The Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori technique is a centuries-old art form that you can witness and even participate in. Visiting the Shibori Museum and engaging in a hands-on workshop are essential experiences. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond the workshops, take time to appreciate the historical architecture of the town, which reflects its past as a prosperous post town. Many local shops sell exquisite Shibori products, offering a chance to purchase unique, handcrafted items directly from artisans. The intricate details and vibrant colors are a testament to the skill and dedication involved in this traditional craft.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Arimatsu is a wonderful destination for solo travelers seeking a peaceful and culturally rich experience. The historic townscape provides a serene environment for leisurely walks and personal reflection. You can easily spend hours exploring the charming streets at your own pace. Instagram+1

Participating in a Shibori workshop is a great way to connect with local culture and potentially meet other travelers. It's a rewarding activity that allows you to immerse yourself in a traditional Japanese art form. Enjoy the local cuisine at your own leisure, perhaps trying the highly-rated seafood at Ajifuku for a memorable meal. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori

Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori is a celebrated traditional Japanese tie-dyeing technique with a history spanning over 400 years. Founded in the early Edo period, it emerged from the need for local artisans to develop crafts due to the area's poor farmland. The technique involves intricate folding, stitching, and binding of fabric before dyeing, creating unique patterns that are impossible to replicate exactly. TikTokInstagram+1

This craft is deeply intertwined with the history of Arimatsu as a post town on the Tokaido road, the historic highway connecting Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto. The distinctive patterns and vibrant colors became highly sought after, contributing to the town's prosperity. Today, Arimatsu-Narumi Shibori is recognized as a Registered Intangible Cultural Property of Japan, with efforts focused on preserving and promoting this exquisite art form. TikTokInstagram+1

Visitors can experience Shibori firsthand through various workshops. These hands-on sessions allow you to learn the basic techniques and create your own unique tie-dyed items, such as handkerchiefs or small cloths. It's a fantastic way to connect with Japanese culture and take home a truly personal souvenir. Instagram+2

Exploring the Historic Arimatsu Townscape

Arimatsu's charm lies in its remarkably preserved Edo-period townscape. Once a bustling post town along the Tokaido road, the district retains much of its historical atmosphere, with traditional wooden merchant houses and narrow, winding streets. Walking through Arimatsu feels like stepping back in time, offering a peaceful contrast to modern city life. Instagram+2

The area is designated as an Important Traditional Buildings Preservation District, ensuring its historical character is maintained. As you wander, you'll discover small shops selling local crafts, including beautiful Shibori textiles, as well as charming cafes and restaurants. The architecture itself tells stories of the town's past as a vital stop for travelers. Instagram+1

To best appreciate the townscape, wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time for exploration. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience. The visual appeal of the old buildings, combined with the artistry of Shibori, makes Arimatsu a unique and picturesque destination. Instagram+1

You may also like

1 of 2