Akane Dyeing Experience with "Japan Akane," an Ancient & Mysterious Art

Although highly valued more than a thousand years ago, today Japanese Akane has mostly fallen out of use. However, the rare Japanese Akane plant was recently discovered growing wild in Miyoshi city, in the Nishi Awa region of Tokushima prefecture. These precious plants were collected, seedlings raised, and the plants were bred until there were enough to produce Akane dye. Traditional Akane dyeing is unique in that the roots are used; they are dried and boiled, producing lovely shades of orange, pink and red. Try your hand at creating your own unique and precious Akane artwork!