A New Hub for Okinawa's Traditional Crafts

First, could you provide a brief overview of this facility?

Suikara was established as a center to preserve the two traditional crafts of Ryukyu bingata and Shuri-ori cloth for future generations. The first floor features a gallery and shop, the second floor houses the Ryukyu BINGATA Business cooperative, while the third floor contains the Naha Traditional Textiles Cooperative Association. Each floor includes workshops where artisans continuously improve their skills while creating. Additionally, the facility allows the general public to tour and participate in dyeing and weaving experiences.

In 2019, Shuri Castle was devastated by fire, significantly impacting the tourism industry in Shuri. In response to this situation, Suikara was built as a facility for passing on traditional craft techniques to the next generation. This establishment provided a stable space for cooperatives that had long lacked a base for their activities.

The appeal of Ryukyu Bingata and Shuri-ori

Can you tell us about the historical background of Ryukyu Bingata and Shuri-ori?

Okinawa is known as the “island of crafts”, and of the 16 items designated as traditional Japanese crafts, 13 of them are related to dyeing and weaving. Since the 14th century, various techniques have been introduced through trade with Southeast Asia, China and Japan, and these have been adapted and developed to suit the climate and natural environment of Okinawa. Distinctive weaving techniques have been passed down in various regions, but in Shuri in particular, beautiful and elegant textiles have been woven for royalty and the nobility.