JAPAN
MAple basket weaving
October 26-31, 2026
$ | per person, shared room
$ | per person, private room
Obara Kago is a traditional wooden basket that has been passed down for about 250 years in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture. It is crafted from broadleaf trees, such as maple, which are gathered directly from the mountains by the artisans. Originally serving as a mingu (folk tool) that supported daily labor and life in the past, it is characterized by its exceptionally durable construction. In March 2026, the technique for making these wooden baskets was officially designated as a Traditional Craft of Shiga Prefecture. Its simple, unadorned form blends seamlessly into modern interiors and contemporary lifestyles.
On this journey, we will immerse ourselves in this craft alongside Japanese basket maker Eriko Arai and Appalachian basket weaver Micah Wiles, exploring the shared relationship between forests and materials that connect craft traditions across cultures. Together, we'll learn the art of split-wood basket weaving while discovering the rich cultural landscapes of Shiga and Gifu through visits to a folk museum, a castle, a traditional tamari brewery, a kakishibu persimmon dye workshop, and restorative onsen baths.
This experience is an invitation to slow down, connect with the natural world, and gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring traditions that continue to shape everyday life in rural Japan.
where we’ll be
Nestled along the shores of Lake Biwa, the historic town of Nagahama is home to the quiet district of Kinomoto, a place where centuries-old traditions continue to shape daily life. Once a thriving post town along the historic Hokurikudō, Kinomoto is known for its beautifully preserved streets, artisan workshops, family-run shops, and deep connection to Japanese craftsmanship. Surrounded by mountains and rice fields, the town offers a slower pace of life, inviting visitors to experience the warmth of rural hospitality.
what we’ll do
Join basket weavers Eriko Arai and Micah Wiles for an immersive week exploring the art of traditional split wood basketry using itaya kaede (maple). Bridging the distinct approaches and techniques of both teachers, this workshop offers a rare opportunity to learn from two accomplished makers while working with locally harvested maple. Together, you'll learn how to prepare and split the wood, and will weave your own basket to take home. No previous weaving experience is required; all skill levels are warmly welcomed.
Beyond the studio, you'll experience the rhythms of rural Japan through a thoughtfully curated itinerary that includes a sake tasting, a visit to a tamari brewery, a soak in a local onsen, a kakishibu (persimmon tannin) dyeing workshop, and other meaningful encounters with the region's rich craft and culinary traditions.
where we’ll stay
We’ll be hosting guests at Nakaya Ryokan and Kusano Ryokan, two welcoming, family-run ryokans that offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese hospitality.
Guests may choose between private or shared accommodations, with the option of western-style mattresses or traditional tatami mat rooms with Japanese futons. All accommodation options offer guests an authentic and comfortable stay.
Please review
Your Hosts, Eriko + Micah
Eriko Arai is the representative of Arai Kigago Seisakujo and a traditional wood basket weaver. She is also a doctoral candidate researching heritage studies and intangible cultural heritage. She goes into the mountains herself to gather materials and weaves the baskets using traditional techniques. In March 2026, alongside her mentor, Mr. Tadano, she was designated as a Traditional Craftsperson of Shiga Prefecture. With a deep respect for folk techniques, she creates durable tools designed for long-term use in modern everyday life.
Micah Wiles is a farmer and craftsperson living in Kentucky in the foothills of the Appalachian mountains. He has been weaving baskets for over twelve years with a focus on traditional white oak basket making. His practice of craft is place based and involves a connection with the land, utilizing local materials found in the landscape around him. He has studied the traditional baskets of Kentucky and Tennessee and has travelled internationally learning from basket makers in Romania, Ireland, England and Japan. Passing on knowledge and keeping traditional skills alive is important to Micah and he teaches a variety of classes on his farm as well as at craft schools throughout the Appalachian region.
Trip ITINERARY
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Group arrival to Bhuj. Welcome dinner and trip orientation
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Morning walk with rabari shepherds.
Kala cotton spinning workshop in Bhujodi.
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Bhujodi weaving and indigo dye workshop.
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Visit local textile museum.
Visit Ajrakh blockprinters.
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Visit collective of female embroidery artists.
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Bhuj city day. Visit market, vintage textile museum and bandhani tie and dye studio.
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Visit to copper bell maker and the Rann desert.
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Final group breakfast in the hotel garden.
Farewells and departures. We hope you join us again!
TRIP DETAILS
DATES:
October 26-31, 2026
Accommodation:
The Johri has 8 luxurious and spacious suites, of which guests have the option to select a private, double or triple occupancy room. In all room options, guests will have separate beds, therefore, it is not necessary to book with someone you know. You can reserve as an independent traveler.
As the suites are very spacious (all have annex rooms like reading room and/or dressing room), guests will have plenty of space to feel comfortable in the shared accommodation.
If you have any questions about the hotel, or would like to see more photos, please contact us. We truly believe this is the best accommodation option for our groups. Exquisite design and hospitality, excellent location, and the whole property for just our group!
PRICING + PAYMENT:
$4,800 per guest // triple room, separate beds
$5,700 per guest // double room, separate beds
$6,950 per guest // private room
A non-refundable deposit it required in order to reserve your space on this trip. The remaining balance can be made at your convenience on this page at least two months prior to the trip.
When making a reservation, there is the option to Pay it Forward. These contributions are directed exclusively towards our Artisan Exchange Program.
COST INCLUDES:
In-Country Transportation: Pick up and drop off from Jaipur airport or train station, as well as private group transportation during our scheduled activities.
Accommodation: Boutique hotel accommodation in Jaipur, at the Johri Hotel. Prices vary depending on preference of private, double or triple occupancy rooms.
Food + chai: A selection of wholesome vegetarian meals at our hotel and restaurants in town. All meals are included except two dinners.
Art Education: A day of wood block carving and three days of natural dyeing with instruction led by local craftspeople.
Craft Supplies: You will be provided with the necessary raw materials and tools to create block printed textiles of your own.
Additional Experiences: While we are not creating, we will visit museums, palaces, and many other sites in and around Jaipur.
Support: A Thread Caravan team member and a local guide will both accompany the group for the duration of the trip, offering participants their combined knowledge of the country, while making sure everything runs smoothly. In addition, Thread Caravan staff is available to answer questions and assist with trip preparations beforehand.
Gift: Special welcome gift upon arrival.
Carbon Emissions Offset: We’ve partnered with Trees for the Future to plant 50 tress on your behalf in order to offset the carbon emissions of your travel to India. Please contact us if you’d like us to plant additional trees on your behalf.
NOT INCLUDED:
Airfare: We've found that flights from the U.S. cost approximately $1000, varying depending on the airline and how far in advance you book.
Personal Travel Insurance: We require all participants to have personal travel insurance. This will cover things like illness, flight cancellations, theft, etc. We can help you arrange insurance with a provider.
Alcohol
GETTING THERE AND AWAY:
This workshop starts and ends at the Jaipur International Airport or train station in Jaipur. You get there and we'll handle the rest. If you have questions about flight options, please contact us.
Often times, there are more affordable flight options if you book two separate flights — one roundtrip from your home country to Delhi International Airport, and another domestic flight from Delhi to Jaipur. If you opt for this route, we are happy to share suggestions for time spent in Delhi.
Additionally, please contact us if you would like support with flights.
VISA + Passport: Travelers going to India must obtain a tourist visa. In most cases (including if you are a US resident), you can apply and pay for your e-Tourist visa online, or you may take your passport to an embassy near you. Indian tourist visas cost approximately $60 USD. *All travelers must apply for visas immediately after reserving space on the workshop.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Scheduling: While we plan to stick to the schedule, India is full of surprises and our schedule is subject to change at the last minute. If you keep an open mind and are flexible in your thought process, this will be a truly enriching experience. All plans and schedules are subject to change at the discretion of the Thread Caravan team.
Preparing for India: India is the land of sensory stimulation! Creating a safe and mindful itinerary with authentic, unforgettable experiences is what we are striving for. This trip should be considered an opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. We want you to be excited and prepare yourself for this journey of a lifetime. We encourage reading about Indian culture beforehand.
This trip is not a resort experience. We will be sharing rooms in a beautiful and intimate boutique hotel. In a land of over a billion people, privacy is a prized notion, so please prepare accordingly. Going with the flow has been our mantra and has helped us find little, unexpected moments of joy along the way.Dietary Restrictions: Many dishes in India contain garlic, yogurt and dairy. While we can accommodate some dietary restrictions (e.g. vegetarian), please contact us in advance to see if we can accommodate your dietary needs.
Mobility Requirements: This trip includes city walks as well as shuttle commutes. Please contact us in advance if you have specific mobility requirements.
Vaccinations: Routine vaccinations, measles, Hepatitis A, and Typhoid are suggested by the Center for Disease Control.
Physical Abilities: Ensuring you have a strong immune system before travel will help your trip experience be more enjoyable. Please make sure you are eating healthy meals, are well rested and are in good health before and during travel. If you have any pending health concerns, please consult with your doctor before reserving your space on the trip, and of course, please contact us if you have any questions.
BOOKING TERMS + CONDITIONS
Travelers must agree to Thread Caravan's Booking Terms and Conditions in order to join this experience.
RegisTER
HERE
50 trees planted for every
reservation made
Explore the blockprinting traditions in Rajasthan, India with a multi-day workshop. This immersive textile tour also includes guided visits of architectural gems, unique food experiences, and visits to design and paper-making studios.
Thread Caravan provides fully-funded artists residencies to our community of indigenous artisan collaborators, as part of our artisan exchange program. To date, we’ve been proud to host Gujarati turban weaver Shamji Vishram Vankar in Oaxaca, as well as Zapotec Oaxacan sisters and weavers Silvia and Dahlia Gutiérrez on our weaving retreat Guatemala. In June 2024 we will host potter Macrina Mateo Martinez from Tlapazola, Oaxaca on our pottery retreat in the Rif mountains of Morocco.
Should our community be interested in contributing to these efforts, there is the option to pay it forward when making a trip reservation. These financial contributions will be used exclusivity towards our artisan exchange program.
Learn more about this program here.