Miyako Fine Ramie

Four hundred years ago, a boat carrying Okinawan tributes was caught in a typhoon. A man, who happened to be on board from Miyakojima called Sugamayonin Shin'ei, heroically dived into the sea when the boat was about to sink and repaired the damage thus saving the lives of all the crew. Recognizing his bravery, the King of Ryukyu made him a monk. In return, Shin'ei's wife was overjoyed and lovingly wove a piece of cloth to give to the King, and it was this cloth that is said to be the origin of Miyako ramie.

It is a linen cloth but with its very fine threads and very precise ikat patterns, the finished cloth is so smooth that it looks as though it has been coated with wax. It has a wonderful cool, light texture and wears so well that it is said to last three generations. Today there are 65 firms employing 80 staff making cloth for kimono. Among those at work are 2 government recognized Master Craftsmen.