Mizuhiki Knot-tying
Simple and Elegant Piece of Culture
Mizuhiki is a traditional art form of knot-tying that has an important role in Japanese culture since the Asuka Period (538-710), when the nation was still in its infancy. Mizuhiki decorations are mainly used in life’s auspicious moments that warrant celebration, such as births or weddings. The Japanese believe that, through the action of tying knots, one can tie down the good that occurred in those moments into their life.
The art form itself is, in essence, quite simple. The base material is Japanese washi paper twisted into cords and colored with thin strands of silk. The knots used are few in number, relatively easy, and can be learned quickly. Yet, the possibilities are endless, from small earrings, desk decorations, to room-sized installations, you can truly make anything with Mizuhiki.
The Meaning Behind the Knots
Japanese people use Mizuhiki knots to express their feelings. They firmly believe that some feelings cannot be fully conveyed by words alone, which is why they started using these decorative knots to help express them. The most common use for them is to decorate Kinpu envelopes, which as given as gifts during holidays and events such as weddings or funerals. The knots represent the connection and bond between people.
Only one knot is used to represent everlastingness in the case of once-in-a-lifetime events, or to stop sadness in the case of mourning. For events one would like to experience more than once, such as childbirth, one would tie knots that can be repeated to reflect that. Mizuhiki is a cultural tradition that symbolizes the Japanese spirit of modesty and thoughtfulness.
Meet the Artist: Kana Inami
Kana first encountered Mizuhiki when she stumbled upon a plum-shaped piece while looking for a cute accessory to match her new kimono.
She immediately fell in love with the art form, and is now pursuing the art in Kanazawa with a mission to preserve and teach people about it.
Details
Location
At our studio, “unveil”, located close to the Higashi Chaya Tea District
Workshop Length
Up to 2 hours
Fee
Starting at ￥43,800 for a group of two
(Extra fee of ￥6,600 for each additional guest)
Reservation deadline
Please contact us at least 5 days in advance to check for availability
Cancellation policy
No refund for cancellations made within a week of the workshop date
Join the Experience
Discover how tradition is preserved and form is reimagined.
