Traditional techniques
that connect the ages
- Mori Hakataori

Hakata-ori was introduced from China more than 780 years ago, and at first it was mainly used to make “men's belts” for samurai warriors. During the Edo period, Nagamasa Kuroda presented Hakata-ori to the Tokugawa Shogun, and the “Dedication Pattern” became widespread. However, with the end of the Edo period, demand from warriors decreased, and Hakataori began to seek new avenues and started making obis for women. Later, from the Meiji period, mechanization progressed, and obis for women have been made mainly until the present day. However, demand for kimonos declined, and in the Heisei era, the production of sundry goods began as well. Hakataori has evolved in accordance with its history, and is still undergoing such changes today.

a factory tour
Reserve a factory tour
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Woman selecting Mori Hakataori products. The machine that makes Mori Hakataori Weaving Mori Hakataori Making Mori Hakataori Mori Hakataori Shop

About Mori Hakataori Factory Tour

The Mori Hakataori factory tour provides an up-close look at the traditional techniques of Hakata-ori that have been passed down through the long history of the weaving industry. During the tour, you will not only experience the process of careful weaving by craftsmen, but also learn deeply about the history of Hakata-ori and its charms. The tour is led by a full-time guide who explains in detail the history of Hakata-ori from its origins to the present day, as well as the skillful techniques used in the factory. Visitors will be able to closely observe the production process that combines ancient techniques and the latest technology, and will be able to experience the depth of this traditional craft. At the end of the tour, you will also have time to purchase Hakata-ori items that are only available at the factory's gift store. We hope you will fully enjoy the charm of Hakata textiles through the factory tour. Advance reservations are required for the tour. We can accommodate small groups as well as large groups, so please come with your family and friends.

機織りの様子 機織りの様子2
機織りの様子

Up-close view of
the weaving process

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During a tour of the Mori Hakataori factory, visitors can observe craftspeople weaving on a loom up close. This is a rare opportunity to closely observe the process that combines traditional hand-weaving techniques with the latest machinery. See with your own eyes the moment delicate patterns are woven.

Weaving experience

Experience
traditional weaving

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Under the guidance of a craftsman, visitors can have the rare experience of weaving traditional Hakata-ori patterns on an actual loom. While working with your hands, experience firsthand the fascination of weaving and the depth of craftsmanship. Through this experience, you will experience the splendor of traditional craftsmanship.

Shopping

Get limited edition
products at directly
managed stores

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After the factory tour, visitors can purchase Hakataori products at the directly managed store. A wide variety of products are available, from traditional kimonos and obis to modern accessories. Some items are limited edition and can only be found here, making them ideal as souvenirs or gifts. We hope you will find your favorite item.

Factory Tour Overview

Outline
Factory Tour & Handmade Machine Experience Course

You can see and learn the process of making Hakata-ori, a traditional handicraft, and experience Hakata-ori weaving on a handmade loom (tebata). This course allows you to fully experience the charm of Hakata-ori.

entrance fee
880 yen (tax included)
Free for elementary school students and younger
Number of applications accepted
More than 4 people
system
○Morning: Reception hours / 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
○Afternoon: Reception hours / 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Tour Duration
Approx. 30 min.
Other
All visitors will receive a commemorative gift.
Please make reservations at least one week in advance.

Message

President, Mori Hakataori Co.
Oriaguri, directly managed store
Weaving Hakata-ori fabric
Machines making Hakata-ori
President checking threads
The Corona Disaster Brought Change and New Challenges

Mori Hakataori was founded in 1896 and has evolved with the times while maintaining traditional Hakata-ori techniques. Until the 1960s, the company mainly manufactured obi belts, but later took on the challenge of producing towels made of silk. However, due to the rising cost of raw materials and changes in the market, we temporarily suspended towel production in 2022. We also set a new direction to operate a roadside station and create a base for local production for local consumption, which we had envisioned before the Corona disaster. Currently, the company is focusing on tourism by attracting tourist buses and offering tour courses, with a focus on “weaving aguri”. At this turning point, which saw major changes before and after Corona, the company is reevaluating its direction and taking on new challenges.

Practicality of Hakata-ori loved by Samurai

Hakata-ori is characterized by weaving tightly by passing thick weft yarns through thin warp yarns. The density of the warp threads is particularly high, with approximately 3,000 to 4,000 warp threads used in a 20 cm wide fabric, resulting in a very dense weave. Due to this structure, a major characteristic of Hakata-ori is that the weft yarns do not show, and the warp yarns are used to create the pattern. The reason why Hakata-ori was widely used by warriors had to do with the characteristics of silk, which was valued for its practicality: it would not move when a sword was inserted into the obi. The hardness of the fabric also makes it excellent for protection in battle, and its use as protective clothing was once considered. This comfort and practicality are the main attractions of Hakataori.

Uncompromising Product Creation Policy

We continue to maintain the traditional weaving method using warp and weft yarns, and we never compromise on quality even if the cost of raw material yarns increases. Even if the cost of production increases, we will not reduce the quality of the material or change the weaving method by reducing the number of threads. This is our characteristic and policy. Our mission is to continue to provide high-quality products that our customers can use with confidence. If there is a request to compromise quality, we will accept it only on the condition that our name is not used and we assume no responsibility, and we have never received such a request. We will continue to take this stance and continue to manufacture products without compromise.

Trial for Reproducibility

The greatest challenge we face is to reproduce the exact same quality and form of a product that we have produced in the past. For example, it is very difficult to re-create an obi that was created two years ago at the same price, in the same material, and in the same color. This is due to the rising prices of raw materials, the weather at the time of production, the condition of the machinery, and also the characteristics of silk. Silk is a natural fiber and, like human hair, is affected by temperature and humidity. Therefore, reproducing the same product under the same conditions is an extremely difficult task. This difficulty in reproduction is the greatest challenge for us and the most important issue in our daily product manufacturing.

Silk Production and Contemporary Issues

Japan used to lead the world in silk production, but today the number of sericulturalists has decreased dramatically, making it difficult to find new possibilities for silk. Silk research facilities still exist, but they too are shrinking, limiting our ability to improve yarn quality and expand production. While the price of silk is rising, we continue to offer our products without compromising quality. However, there is an increasing need to look at materials other than silk, and we are actively incorporating alternative materials such as cotton and linen. This is also to meet the needs of customers who are not particular about silk. Silk remains an expensive and scarce material, but new innovations in its use are being sought.

New Materials and Product Development Initiatives

Today, new materials are being used to replace silk. We use materials such as polyester and rayon instead of silk for bags, pouches, and other miscellaneous goods. This makes it possible to improve durability and usability while keeping costs down. Silk is ideal for applications such as obi, but not necessarily for sundries or items for daily use. In addition, silk is difficult to care for and yellowing over time is inevitable. To overcome these challenges, we are working to develop new products by selecting the best materials for each product application.

Challenges and Prospects in Target Selection

Bags, pouches, and clasps are particularly popular among overseas customers, who especially prefer dark-colored products such as black and purple. Naturally, however, the tastes of customers in each country differ, and it is difficult to decide which market to target in product development. We believe that while we are focusing on our domestic and local customers, we can expand the potential of Hakataori itself by considering products for foreign tourists as well. In particular, items such as pouches and clasps are highly promising as products that are versatile and appeal to foreigners. For future development, a strategy that takes both local and global perspectives into account is required.

Attraction of Mori Hakataori Factory Tour

The most attractive feature of our factory tour is that visitors can observe the entire process from yarn to finished product in sequence. The tour is designed to allow visitors to observe the manufacturing know-how and process up close while tracing the green floor. Furthermore, in addition to tours, the museum also offers programs that allow visitors to actually experience manufacturing, providing a special experience for visitors. In the future, we plan to introduce courses that incorporate workshops in addition to the tours and hands-on experience, with the aim of providing an even richer experience that will further enhance the attraction of the site.

Moving forward into the future while preserving tradition

Looking to the future, Mori Hakataori will continue to preserve the traditional production of obi while focusing on attracting inbound visitors and tourists to the area and spreading the appeal of Hakata-ori to a wider audience. In particular, it is important for visitors to have a proper understanding of the quality and culture of Hakataori through opportunities to experience the original weaving technique and the history of the dedication pattern. As the originator of Hakata-ori, Mori Hakataori stands apart from other weavers and faithfully preserves the traditional production method. During factory tours, we emphasize the importance of conveying the deep history and culture of Hakata-ori by carefully explaining the weaving process of the Dedication Pattern and its history. We intend to continue to utilize various tools to increase awareness of Hakata-ori and convey its appeal to a wider audience.

Finally

Over the years I have observed traditional Hakata and Japanese craftsmanship, and in order to keep it alive, it is essential to make changes to keep up with the times. To continue without changing anything will eventually cause it to become obsolete. We are trying to pass on traditional crafts to the next generation by adopting new approaches and adapting to the times. We would like to show you how Hakata companies are responding to change in the age of 2025. We believe that evolving with the times while preserving tradition is an important step toward the future.

ACCESS

Mori Hakataori
"Ori Aguri(織りあぐり)", a direct sales shop
〒811-2109
3-4-7, Sakurabara, Umi-cho, Kasuya-gun, Fukuoka, Japan
(福岡県糟屋郡宇美町桜原3-4-7)
Bus Bus
5 minutes walk from Nishitetsu Bus “Kuroho Shikaku”.
(From 西鉄 Bus "黒穂四角" Station)
Train Train
15 minutes walk from "Umi" Station on JR Kashii Line
(From "宇美" Station on JR香椎線)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q
How long does a factory tour take?
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Factory tours usually take about 30 minutes. The time may vary slightly depending on the content of the tour, so please allow plenty of time for your visit.
Q
Do I need to make a reservation in advance for the factory tour?
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Yes, advance reservations are required for factory tours. We may not be able to accommodate same-day tours without a reservation, so please be sure to make a reservation in advance.
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Is there a guide available in English?
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Yes, we offer English-speaking guides. Please let us know on the reservation form that you would like an English-speaking guide, and we will be happy to accommodate you.
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Can I visit with my child?
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Of course. We welcome visitors with children. However, please be careful to keep an eye on your children during the tour, as there are many delicate machines in the factory.
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Are wheelchair-accessible tours available?
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Yes, the factory is barrier-free. Wheelchair-accessible tours are no problem. If you need any assistance, please contact us in advance.
Q
Is it possible to take pictures?
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Photography is allowed during the factory tour except in some areas. The guide will inform you of areas where photography is prohibited, so please follow his/her instructions.
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What is the procedure if I want to cancel my visit?
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If you wish to cancel, please contact us at least one day prior to the scheduled visit. No cancellation fee will be charged, but we would appreciate it if you could contact us as soon as possible.
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Can I purchase Hakataori products after the tour?
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Yes, after the tour, you can purchase Mori Hakataori products in our directly managed gift store. We also have limited items available only here.
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Can I ask questions during the tour?
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Of course. Our guides will answer your questions in detail, so please feel free to ask them if you have any concerns.
Q
I would like to share my impressions after the tour, where can I post them?
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Please share your impressions after the tour on social networking sites. We would be very happy if you could post your impressions with the official hashtag #Mori Hakataori Factory Tour.

How to Apply

Thank you for visiting our website.

Please click the link button below to apply for a factory tour.

Everyone is welcome to attend!