Shuri Dyeing and Weaving Museum Suikara / Naha City—A popular spot to learn about Shuri Hanaori and Ryukyu Bingata

We recommend “Shuri Dyeing and Weaving Museum Suikara” for anyone who wants to experience authentic Okinawan traditional crafts. Located in Shuri, Naha City, this facility offers hands-on experiences with “Shuri Hanaori” and “Ryukyu Bingata Dyeing,” both of which boast a history of over 500 years. Even beginners can create a one-of-a-kind piece with the attentive guidance of the staff. Why not come and experience Okinawa’s traditional crafts at this spot, which is beloved not only by tourists but also by locals?

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Try Your Hand at Traditional Techniques at the Shuri Hanaori Workshop

The Shuri Hanaori Experience is a popular activity that lets you try your hand at a traditional Okinawan weaving technique with over 500 years of history. The process—using a “nagehi” shuttle while moving your hands and feet in unison to weave—is enjoyable even for first-timers. You can choose your favorite colors and patterns from the samples, and since you’ll receive careful, one-on-one instruction, even those who aren’t very crafty can feel at ease! The finished piece can be displayed in a photo frame, of course, but we also recommend using it as a mat.

Price: 4,400 yen
Duration: About 60 minutes
Eligibility: 5th grade and up (height 145 cm or taller)

Create Colorful Pieces at a Ryukyu Bingata Dyeing Workshop

In the “Ryukyu Bingata Dyeing Experience,” you can dye a tote bag with colorful traditional Okinawan patterns. There’s a wide variety of options to choose from, ranging from solid-color designs in shades like pink and blue to two-tone variations! Another appealing feature is that the experience takes only about 60 to 90 minutes, so you can enjoy it in a short amount of time. Under the guidance of a master artisan, this program offers a casual way to experience Okinawa’s traditional dyeing techniques.

Tote Bag (Solid Color): 3,520 yen
Tote Bag (Small, Two-Tone): 4,290 yen
Tote Bag (Large, Two-Tone): 4,950 yen
Duration: 60–90 minutes

Suikara: A Place That Carries Traditional Crafts Into the Future

The Shuri Dyeing and Weaving Museum, Suikara, is a facility dedicated to training the next generation of artisans and preserving traditional techniques. In addition to hands-on workshops, visitors can tour the workshops and observe the artisans’ craftsmanship up close. This offers a valuable opportunity to experience the rich culture and history of Okinawa—aspects that cannot be fully appreciated through sightseeing alone.

Facilities and Access Information

Suikara is located in Shuri-Togura-cho, Naha City, close to tourist attractions such as Shuri Castle and the cobblestone streets of Kinjo-cho. With its own parking lot, it’s easy to access by car. It’s conveniently located for a quick stop during your sightseeing in Naha.

The Charm of Suikara That I Experienced During My Visit

I took part in the Shuri Hanaori weaving workshop. Moving my arms and legs at the same time was harder than I expected, so I had to go through the motions while checking each step, almost as if I were reciting a spell (lol). But the finished piece was simply breathtaking! The staff gave me such kind and patient guidance that even as a complete beginner, I was able to create a beautiful piece. Next time, I’d like to try the Ryukyu Bingata dyeing workshop.

Enjoy Okinawa Even More at Nearby Tourist Attractions

Shuri Castle: About 2 minutes by car
A magnificent castle, listed as a World Heritage Site, that symbolizes the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

Ishidatami, Kaneshiro-cho—about a 7-minute drive
A spot perfect for a leisurely stroll along a cobblestone path that retains the atmosphere of the Ryukyu Kingdom era, where you can experience history and charm.

Shikina-en: About 7 minutes by car
A beautiful World Heritage Site built as a secondary palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, blending Japanese and Chinese garden traditions.

DFS Okinawa Naha: About a 10-minute drive
A popular shopping destination in Naha where you can find luxury brands at duty-free prices.

Kokusai Street—about a 15-minute drive
The main street in Naha City, bustling with tourists, where you can enjoy Okinawan souvenirs and local cuisine.

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