The History of Nishijin-ori (1) The Beginning

The origins of Nishijin-ori are inextricably linked to the history of Japanese silk fabrics, with its roots tracing back to the 3rd century, as noted in the Chinese historical record "The Account of the Wa People in the Records of Wei." However, it is likely that Japanese society had already begun sericulture and silk weaving as early as the 2nd century BC.

The history of Nishijin-ori dates back to the 5th century. The Hata clan, an influential immigrant family, introduced advanced irrigation and weaving techniques to Japan, establishing their base in Uzumasa, Kyoto. This area, now approximately a 30-minute bike ride southwest of present-day Nishijin, became a center of silk production and is known for the historic Koryuji Temple.

A brief walk from Koryuji leads to Kaiko-no-yashiro Shrine, a lesser-known but significant site related to the Hata clan and their legacy in silk weaving. Kaiko-no-yashiro, often overlooked by casual visitors, houses the rare Mitsutorii, a unique structure composed of three interconnected torii gates. 

The continuity of silk weaving in Kyoto for over 1,600 years is remarkable. Where else in the world can we find an industry that has persisted in the same city for such an extraordinary span of time? While Murano glass production in Italy has a lengthy heritage, the weaving traditions of Kyoto may stretch even further into antiquity, preserving both an art and a legacy.