[Zenbird] Launch of “Indigo dyeing tour and beginner kendo session exploring Bushido values”

Harch, which operates Zenbird, will host an afternoon 5-hour tour on 28 November, offering participants a rare opportunity to step inside a working indigo dye house and then onto the floor of a kendo dojo. The tour presents a unique chance to experience two Japanese traditions that continue to shape and teach everyday values in Japan.

Organised by Zenbird Media together with Nogawa Senshoku Kougyou and Heiseikan Dojo, this five-hour event connects the craft of Bushu indigo dyeing with the discipline of kendo to explore ideas often cited in Japanese life. The event also aims to offer practical insight into etiquette, respect and care for people, tools and place, suggesting qualities that you can carry into their own daily routines.

The visit begins at Nogawa Senshoku Kougyou, a 110-year-old manufacturer known for Bushu Sho-Aizome and the Bushuichi kendo uniform. You will tour the factory and see the vats up-close. We will then move to the “Kame-nozoki” site and learn how the indigo culture of the region came to be. You’ll hear a short talk will introduce the Bushu area’s indigo history, followed by a discussion on how the craft models circularity, coexistence with nature and well-being. An optional fitting offers a chance to try on an indigo-dyed kendo uniform and hakama.

The group will then transfer to Heiseikan Dojo for an introduction to kendo. Under expert guidance, you will learn dojo behaviour, core etiquette, posture, grip, footwork and the closing bow. A reflection session will close the day, drawing links between “the Way” as a lifelong practice and everyday habits like punctuality, humility, responsibility, mutual care and respect, alongside caring for objects and space as an expression of gratitude and focus.

Speakers

Yuki Nogawa (left) and Mizuki Amagai (right) will be our guides for an afternoon of culture and new discoveries. (Image: Mariko Sato)

Guiding us through the experience is Yuki Nogawa, the fifth-generation head of Nogawa Senshoku Kougyou, born in Hanyu, who promotes Bushu Sho-Aizome through the Bushuichi kendo uniform and new product development, and Mizuki Amagai, the principal of Ibaraki Chuo Kodomoen, instructor of the Ibaraki Junior Kendo Team and holder of 7th dan. Amagai has coached children to multiple national titles.

The programme follows a dialogue by Nogawa and Amagai on “Indigo is alive: the ‘Strength to Live’ in Kendo attire culture,” which is now translated into hands-on learning for you.

Who is this event for

• Those seeking practical guidance from Japanese ways of thinking
• Visitors who want to see a traditional indigo process up close
• People interested in trying kendo in indigo-dyed uniform
• Anyone curious about the spirit of Bushido and everyday discipline

Programme at a glance

1. Indigo Dyeing Factory Tour (approx. 1 hour) at Nogawa Senshoku Kougyou

• Gathering at Minami-Hanyu Station at 13:00 and walking to the factory
• Opening session (5–10 min): What you will gain from this experience
• Factory tour: Observe artisans at work in the indigo vats (30 min)

Image: Mariko Sato

2. “Kame-nozoki” Indigo Experience (approx. 1 hour)

• Move to the “Kame-nozoki” site and visit the exhibition room
• Explanation of the history of indigo dyeing in Hanyū (Bushu area) (20 min)
• Q&A and participant talk session: In what ways is this sustainable?

Image: Mariko Sato

3. Transfer & Kendo Experience (approx. 2–2.5 hours)

• Move to Heiseikan Dōjō (10 min by taxi)
• Learning proper behavior in the dōjō
• Etiquette and manners
• Posture, how to hold the shinai, and footwork
• Closing bow with all participants
• Group photo session
• Group reflection session: Sharing today’s learnings

Image: Mariko Sato

Event details

• Date and time: 28 Nov. 2025, 1–5 p.m. (programme ends around 5–6 p.m.); meet at Minami-Hanyu Station at 1 p.m.
• Meeting location: Meet at Minami-Hanyu Station at 1 p.m.
• Tickets: ¥20,000 (transport not included); children 12 and under: ¥10,000
• Capacity: 15 people
• Language: English
• Register: via Peatix

[Reference page] Indigo dyeing tour and beginner kendo session exploring Bushido values | Zenbird
[Related site] Zenbird