All about Nishijin (2) Senryo-ga-Tsuji (Center of Nishijin are during the Edo period)

The Nishijin area had a central location known as "Senryo-ga-Tsuji." During the Edo period, this street, lined with silk wholesalers and textile merchants, was so bustling that transactions worth a thousand ryō (currency used in the Edo period)  took place in a single day. Even in the Meiji era, the area continued to be a hub for silk wholesalers, with financial institutions also establishing their presence, reflecting its status as a major economic center.

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In the past, this area was densely populated by Nishijin weaving professionals, and the sound of looms weaving could be heard from many homes. Today, it’s rare to hear that sound, but occasionally, when passing through, you might still catch it. The number of people involved in dyeing, refining, and spinning threads has significantly decreased, though there are still some who are active in the area. However, most of the production processes have now moved to the Tango region.

Currently, the former Nishijin Textile Centre is used as the Kyoto City Archaeological Museum. A stone monument in front of the building bears inscriptions about the origin of Nishijin.