Gold and silver threads, crafted by applying gold and silver leaf to washi paper, are essential to Nishijin brocade. Their luxurious look has made them popular in royal and religious garments, as well as in festival floats and palanquins. In the 1960s, the rise of lamé production allowed the industry to expand into women's fashion. However, it now faces a crisis with a shortage of skilled artisans and a shrinking market due to the pandemic. Explore the challenges these craftsmen face as they seek innovative ideas and new avenues for their work.
Show
Core Kyoto
Episode
S10E01
Air Date
Jan 06, 2022
Season 10 Episodes
S10E01
Woven Gold and Silver: A World of Shimmering Patterns
S10E02
Conversations: A Living Museum of Modern Architecture
S10E03
Writing Implements: Modern Elegance in Traditional Stationery
S10E05
Conversations: The Power of Women in Decorative Arts
S10E06
Gateways: Sacred Demarcations that Repel Evil
S10E07
Buddhist Bells of Prayer: A Universe of Sound Cleanses the Heart
S10E08
Conversations: Learning Aesthetics from the Ancients
S10E09
Old Building Materials: The Ancient Capital's Culture of Recycling
S10E10
Dried Foods: Ancient Wisdom Gracing Kyoto Tables
S10E11
Art Frontier: Creators Forge New Paths into the Future
S10E12
The Lights of Kyoto: Illuminating and Soothing People's Hearts
S10E13
Shikimono: The Culture of Living on the Floor
S10E14
Wazuka Tea: A Vibrant Village of Fragrant Fields
S10E15
The Beauty in Copying: An Art Form of Aspirations
S10E16
Conversations: The Colors of Kyoto
S10E17
Ornamental Metalwork: Magnificent Mastery Transcends Generations
S10E18
Men's Kimono: The Beauty of Dressing with Flair
S10E19
New Directions for Washi: The Sustainable, Elegant Use of Paper
S10E20
Kamo River: The Flow of Life and Culture in the Ancient Capital
S10E21
The Spirit of Frugality: Modern Ingenuity and Age-Old Wisdom
S10E22
Dashi Stock: Savory Umami for Exquisite Cuisine
S10E23
The Dragon: Deity of Water, Protector of the Capital