Hello!
This is MAKIKO,the designer of KARAKU be me.
Recently, I traveled to Bishu, a region in Gifu Prefecture known as one of Japan’s most important wool production areas.
Here, several textile mills have been operating for over a hundred years, preserving traditional craftsmanship while quietly supporting the world of luxury fashion.
The Material Center — where designers from all over the world come to find inspiration.
What surprised me most was that fabrics from Bishu are used by world-famous maisons such as CHANEL and DIOR.
These fabrics have a depth and texture that can only be created here — woven with both advanced machinery and the delicate touch of human hands.
A century-old weaving machine at Kuzuri Wool Textile Co., still creating beautiful wool fabrics today.
During my visit, I watched the looms moving rhythmically, weaving beautiful wool fabrics.
But before a single thread can be woven, each yarn must be passed through the machine manually — one by one, taking several days to prepare.
The patience, precision, and love behind this process deeply moved me.
I had the chance to thread the yarn through the loom myself — a humbling and unforgettable experience.
Sadly, many of these remarkable mills are now closing due to a shortage of skilled artisans and successors.
As Japan’s manufacturing heritage slowly fades, I find myself asking what I can do to help preserve it — even in small ways.
An over 100-year-old spinning machine at Kitamakeori Co., twisting threads with timeless precision.
Every fabric holds time, care, and human warmth within it.
Visiting Bishu reminded me that the true beauty of Japan lies in its spirit of craftsmanship — the quiet strength behind every handmade creation.
