To a new world, the kimono patterns of old Tokyo.

At the point where two rivers meet in central Tokyo, is Ochiai. Here, around this water, is a traditional location of old Tokyo’s dye works. By the edge of one of the rivers, the Myoshoji, in a quiet residential area can be found Futaba-en. Through its window it is possible to see the eager movements of young dye workers. With workshops and classrooms, in an age when kimonos have become less a part of daily life, Futaba-en is a precious place in central Tokyo to connect with an older culture. The founder of the company, Shigeo Kobayashi came to Tokyo from his home prefecture of Nagano in 1914. From here he entered the tutelage of Kousuke Komiya, who would later be designated a ‘living national treasure’ for his work in the Edo Komon textile print style. Acquiring skills in this technique, Kobayashi also visited and trained at other leading dye-houses of the day, before in 1920 establishing his own workshop – Futabaya. This coincided with the golden age of his industry, and allowed Kobayashi to devote himself to work in the Edo Komon, and Edo Sarasa patterns. At present, the business he created is in its fourth generation, and in the hands of Motobumi Kobayashi, who continues to upholds its tradition and excellence in Edo fabric prints. A location where the old world of kimonos still lives, Futaba-en is known especially for its work in Edo Sarasa. The beauty and romance of kimonos of old Tokyo, is the essence of what Futaba-en achieves, and the driving force in bringing the designs to new generations.

FUTABA INC.
2-3-6,Kamiochiai,Shinjuku-ku,Tokyo 161-0034
Tel:+81-3-3368-8133
Fax:+81-3-3362-3287
Motobumi Kobayashi
moto@futaba-en.jp
http://www.futaba-en.jp/