ミーコ
Yelp
This seven-storied building houses some exhibition rooms, material rooms, workshops, corners of various experiment (trying on Jyunihitoe, kimono, and maiko-style, handweaving a table ware with a loom) and kimono show, souvenir shops, and a cafe.
I have been here several times, dating back to my university period. The university I attended was located close to here. I did a part-time job here for a short time when I was senior. Then I didn't peep in each floor, but after decades I have been interested in Kimono and looked around elaborately. This facility introduces the history or culture of Nishijin well.
In the workshop weaving demonstration is held in which I could see an artisan weave artistic designs by using numerous threads. He sat down and concentrated on working all the time. I was astonished at the artisan's high and matured hand skill. I wondered that he didn't get fatigue, as he concentrated for long hours.
As for Kimono show, it is amazing and overwhelming. Colorful, showy, gorgeous, elegant, refined...it is beyond description. It is a must for foreigners! You can feel Japanese traditional culture here for free. The stage show is performed almost once an hour.
You can buy kimono or obi (sash) or other small articles made in Nishijin here. If you want to try on Kimono, you have to pay for 10000 yen (Junihitoe or Maiko, Geiko style) or 3600 yen (other Kimono). You can change yourself to a graceful Heian court lady or a traditional entertaining girl or woman to host guests in Gion area.
I was aware of only one thing. The staff members talked to me a lot when I was looking at the products. I was just looking, so I felt a little embarrassed.