Nishijin-ori, Nishijin Kinran Brocade fabric.

The delicate and colourful weaving technique was introduced to Japan from China long ago and has developed uniquely in the Nishijin district of Kyoto over time. Looking back on its history, it is clear how cultural exchange between countries has contributed to the continuation of peace and the development of art.

Today, Okamoto Textile Co., Ltd. continues to challenge itself to convey the charm of Nishijin-ori to China, tracing its roots back to its origins.

The beauty of Nishijin Kinran Brocade fabric delivered to China

Okamoto Orimono Co., Ltd visited China three times last year.

• May 2024: Exhibition at the Xiyue Wujian · Life Aesthetics Museum in Shanghai. This exhibition venue attracts the attention of affluent individuals seeking sophisticated interior design, and served as a platform to showcase the new possibilities of Nishijin Kinran Brocade fabric.

• In June 2024, we exhibited at Design Shanghai, one of China’s largest design events, and interacted with local designers and companies.

• In September 2024, at Song CASA in Xi’an, we explored the possibility of incorporating Nishijin-ori into an interior space that blends tradition and modernity.

We were invited to the unveiling ceremony at Song CASA in Xi’an. (The person wearing green trousers is our textile designer.)

Through these initiatives, we have been promoting the value of Nishijin Kinran Brocade fabric to China’s ultra-high-net-worth individuals. In China, once something is recognised, word of mouth spreads quickly, and we felt the power of this effect at last year’s exhibition.
Additionally, it was striking to observe the growing interest among China’s younger generation in ‘tradition.’ There is a noticeable effort to re-evaluate and rediscover traditional practices that had seemed to fade away, and this reflects a passionate appreciation for artisanal works like Nishijin Kinran Brocade fabric.

Issues with evaluated technologies and products

At the exhibition, Okamoto Textile Co., Ltd.’s ‘Junbiki Pattern Foil’ technique was highly praised. The unique texture of this technique resonated strongly with Chinese designers, media, and the affluent.
On the other hand, it became clear that the price of daily necessities such as cushions was a major obstacle. To convey the value of Nishijin weaving, proposals tailored to the characteristics of the high-end interior market are required. The challenge lies not in engaging in price competition, but in how to help others understand its value.
There is no doubt that there is a demand for traditional crafts in the high-end interior design market, and we continue to challenge ourselves with the hope that Nishijin weaving can bring a new light to this field.

Beyond Craft Japan—Challenging Tradition

This year, Okamoto Orimono Co., Ltd. will once again participate in the ‘Design Shanghai 2025 Beyond Craft Japan’ exhibition. We plan to use this exhibition as a springboard to advance activities with a long-term vision.
Our primary goal is not to export small items, but rather to export fabric in its raw form to China.
In previous exhibitions, we have proposed Nishijin-ori as interior design elements, but by strengthening the sale of fabric itself, we aim to expand into new markets.
This is not merely an exhibition but a challenge to connect Japan’s traditional crafts to the future.
The techniques of Nishijin-ori, the beauty of dyeing and weaving, and the fusion with modern design—these will be showcased in the Chinese market, opening up new possibilities.

Overcoming difficulties to deliver Nishijin textiles

Different markets, different values, different customs, and language barriers—delivering Nishijin textiles to China presents numerous challenges.
However, for centuries, Nishijin has overcome countless obstacles, preserving its techniques and beauty. That is why Okamoto Textiles Co., Ltd. will not give up. We will continue our efforts to deliver Nishijin textiles to the Chinese market, connecting tradition to the future.
Tradition is not merely something to be passed down; it is something that is reborn in new forms. We believe in a future where Nishijin textiles thrive in the Chinese market, and we will continue to challenge ourselves in the years to come.