Tokyo Craft Tour and Retreat
A creative immersion in Japan
for women who are ready to fill their cup with colour, craft, creativity and meaningful connection
3 - 10 October 2027
18 - 26 February 2028
* Limited spots that will sell out.
Tokyo Craft Tour and Retreat
A creative immersion in Japan
for women who are ready to fill their cup with colour, craft, creativity and meaningful connection
3 - 10 October 2027
18 - 26 February 2028
* Limited spots that will sell out.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Colourful Journey Retreat is not just a trip.
It is a vibrant, immersive experience for women who feel most alive when surrounded by beauty, creativity, and meaningful connection.
This one-week retreat in Japan is for those who are stirred by the blues of deep indigo and the softness of timeworn textiles.
It is for those who find magic in the handmade and crave the deep satisfaction of working with their hands.
It is for women who have always loved colour — and for those who feel like they’ve lost theirs and are ready to find it again.
Join a small group of kindred spirits in a place where colour and craft speaks louder than words. Together, we will explore vibrant neighbourhoods, inspiring studios, and soul-filled traditions, guided by locals who live and breathe Japanese craft.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Colourful Journey Retreat
October 2027: 7 nights, 8 days
February 2028: 8 nights 9 days
A Creative Immersion in Tokyo for Lovers of Colour, Craft, and Connection
Accommodation and Transport
- 7 or 8 nights in stylish, comfortable accommodation
- Stay in central Tokyo, in a creative neighbourhood off the tourist track
- Stay in and onsen hotel as you experience the energy of the mountains of Tokyo
- Stay in your own individual room with private bathroom
- All transport to and from workshops and group experiences
Workshops and Experiences
- Independent Textile Atelier visit and Designer meet
- Hands-on Katazome workshop
- Traditional indigo and shibori workshop, create your own fabric for a future project
- Sashiko workshop with a master artisan
- Traditional weaving workshop and tour
- Authentic Kintsugi workshop
- Traditional Temari ball workshop
- Explore local fabric and craft shops, all the supplies your heart desires
- Slow stitching studio hours with tea, coffee, materials and inspiration provided
- Optional: Sashiko thread dyeing
- *February participants only: A once a year kimono festival celebrating the tradition of hanging dyed kimono fabrics along the river. Soak up the spectacle, browse the stalls, admire the river gallery and even try your hand at a workshop or two.
Meals
- Welcome drinks
- Welcome dinner
- Daily breakfast
- 3x lunches
- 2x Traditional kaiseki dinner
- Sayonara meal
Connection and Support
- Pre-retreat Zoom gathering to meet fellow participants, ask your questions and receive essential cultural and travel tips
- Luxe, small group experience to ensure you are looked after throughout the retreat
- Space built into the schedule for rest, journaling, wandering, and unstructured creativity
- A custom local guide booklet with tips for finding the many hidden gems
- Two dedicated tour organisers (Victoria and Aims) with 40 years experience in Japan
READY TO JOIN US?
IS THIS RETREAT FOR YOU?
Absolutely! If you're:
- A crafter, sewist, dyer, maker or creative looking for a behind the scenes, hands-on experience
- Seeking authentic creative experiences, not surface-level tourist activities
- A lover of handmade beauty who feels inspired by texture and colour
- Intrigued by Japanese traditional techniques like sashiko, indigo dyeing, kintsugi and katazome
- Energised by indie charm and hidden gems
- Craving soulful connection and creative expansion that will last long after the you've unpacked your suitcases
- A Japan lover looking to go deeper than the usual
- Ready to connect with like-minded creatives in a supportive and inspiring setting
- Excited to get immersed in these workshops and life in a Tokyo!
- Be ready to be on your feet for a few hours, do 10,000+ steps in a day and travel by train
- Want inspiration and memories that will last a lifetime
WHO ARE WE?
This retreat is lovingly led by two Japan-based creatives who have spent years immersed in the world of Japanese craft, sourcing vintage and modern designer textiles, collaborating with artisans, and building creative businesses rooted in slow, meaningful making.
We’re here to guide you every step of the way — from learning ancient techniques to helping you create personal pieces that carry your own story.
Hi, I'm Aims
I’m a coffee drinking, big earring wearing, print and colour lover! Nothing lights me up more than sharing my passion for sewing and inspiring creativity.
I am the founder of The Indy Bindy Sewciety. A worldwide online sewing community, bursting with energy, creativity and enthusiasm, where you can explore and expand your sewing practice so you can confidently make and wear what you truly love.
Indy Bindy, the go-to place to dive deeper into your creativity.
My most cherished experiences in Japan have been going behind the scenes, getting know the fabric designers, craftspeople, and artisans, seeing their work come to life and trying my hand at it too!
I am beyond excited to share these incredible experiences with you too.
Hi, I'm Victoria
the hands and heart behind Bikudesigns, a vintage kimono accessories and sterling silver jewellery brand based in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo.
My studio is tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, where I design, make, and experiment with colour, texture, and craft. It's also home to a tiny shop where I represent some of my favourite Japan-based makers and host intimate workshops that bring people together through making.
I've always been drawn to slow, thoughtful processes — natural dyeing, sashiko stitching, botanical and gel printing, even card making. For me, craft isn't just about the finished piece. It's about the pause it offers, the stories it holds, and the connection it creates.
The Colourful Journey Retreat grew from that same place. A longing for space. For colour. For time to explore and reconnect — both with craft and with ourselves. I can't wait to welcome you here.
WHO ARE WE?
This retreat is lovingly led by two Japan-based creatives who have spent years immersed in the world of Japanese craft, sourcing vintage and modern designer textiles, collaborating with artisans, and building creative businesses rooted in slow, meaningful making.
We’re here to guide you every step of the way, from learning ancient techniques to helping you create personal pieces that carry your own story.
Hi, I'm Aims
I’m a coffee drinking, big earring wearing, print and colour lover! Nothing lights me up more than sharing my passion for sewing and inspiring creativity.
I am the founder of The Indy Bindy Sewciety. A worldwide online sewing community, bursting with energy, creativity and enthusiasm, where you can explore and expand your sewing practice so you can confidently make and wear what you truly love.
Indy Bindy, the go-to place to dive deeper into your creativity.
My most cherished experiences in Japan have been going behind the scenes, getting know the fabric designers, craftspeople, and artisans, seeing their work come to life and trying my hand at it too!
I am beyond excited to share these incredible experiences with you too.
Hi, I'm Victoria
the hands and heart behind Bikudesigns, a vintage kimono accessories and sterling silver jewellery brand based in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo.
My studio is tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, where I design, make, and experiment with colour, texture, and craft. It's also home to a tiny shop where I represent some of my favourite Japan-based makers and host intimate workshops that bring people together through making.
I've always been drawn to slow, thoughtful processes — natural dyeing, sashiko stitching, botanical and gel printing, even card making. For me, craft isn't just about the finished piece. It's about the pause it offers, the stories it holds, and the connection it creates.
The Colourful Journey Retreat grew from that same place. A longing for space. For colour. For time to explore and reconnect — both with craft and with ourselves. I can't wait to welcome you here.
PRICE & HOW TO PAY
Enter your details below to reserve your spot!
3 - 10 October 2027: 8 days, 7 nights
18 - 26 February 2028: 9 days, 8 nights
Early bird price until 28 February 2027 or sold out!
* Limited spots available
Early bird Pay In Full
OCTOBER
$7370 AUD per person
$7870 Save $500
FEBRUARY
$7810 AUD per person
$8310 Save $500
Early bird Payment Plan
OCTOBER
3x $2720 AUD per person 3x $2886 Save $500
FEBRUARY
3x $2870 AUD per person 3x $3037 Save $500
Includes all workshops, transportation, accomodation and meals listed above.
Flights, airport transfers, travel insurance, some meals, personal expenses including personal transport and shopping are not included.
All bookings are final and non-refundable. Transfers may be possible before 31 July 2027 for the October tour and before 31 October 2027 for the February tour.
Please read the full Terms and Conditions (October 2027 and February 2028) prior to booking.
If you have any questions, please get in touch.
Email us at [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book?
After you have read the Terms and Conditions, please complete the form above to express your interest and secure your spot. Your booking is confirmed once the following are complete:
i) we receive your non-refundable deposit, initial or full trip payment;
ii) we receive a completed Registration Form.
You will then receive an email confirming your booking.
How does payment work?
Complete your payment via credit card or direct deposit. You will be sent an invoice for your non-refundable deposit of AU$800 once we have received your expression of interest.
Once the minimum six spots have been filled on your tour, you will receive an invoice for the remainder of the payment or a payment plan will be set up for you.
Full payment will provide best value. A three part payment plan (to be completed six months before your tour begins) is available on request. Simply email [email protected]
What's included?
Private accomodation, some meals, workshops and experiences, transportation to workshops and experiences, two prep zoom calls, support of two tour organisers (Aims and Victoria).
What's not included?
International or domestic flights, airport connections, travel insurance, personal expenses (e.g. shopping, hotel incidentals, additional meals, drinks, transportation, and all expenses during free time etc.) and any activities or meals not listed in the itinerary or listed as ‘optional’.
Am I required to have travel insurance?
Yes, we require all guests to have travel insurance. Proof of travel insurance is required prior to the retreat. Please read the full Terms and Conditions prior to booking.
Do I need a visa?
Requirements for travel visas vary widely depending on your nationality and your destination. These requirements differ from country to country and are subject to change. You should plan to contact your government office far enough in advance to have time to gather all required documents and approvals.
Do I have to share a room?
No. All rooms are private rooms with private bathroom.
I'm coming with a friend, can we share a room?
Room sizes in Japan are more compact than a typical hotel room you may find in your home country. We advise all participants to utilise their individual rooms so you have your own space to return to to rest and recharge when needed. Rooms in Japan are also charged based on occupants, not by the room, so it will not be more cost effective.
My partner will be in Japan while I'm on the tour, can they share my room?
The retreat has been designed as an immersive experience for participants to create time and space for themselves surrounded by like minded women. The accommodation throughout is reserved on single-occupancy basis, including daily breakfasts, as well as group meals during the mountain stay, so adding additional guests isn’t something we’re able to facilitate with the hotels.
Many guests travel to Japan with their partners. Some chose to spend time together before or after the retreat, while others have had their partners explore a different part of Japan while the retreat is underway. This allows everyone to enjoy the experience that suits them best.
Do I need to bring craft/sewing supplies?
No. All supplies for the workshops will be provided. However if you have projects that you would like to work on in your free time or during the studio stitching hours, please feel free to bring them.
Will there be free time?
Yes, the itinerary has been hand crafted so that you can soak up all that there is to offer and feel great at the same time. There is time planned for group activities and free time where you can unwind or choose your own adventure. We have lots of great suggestions for activities to do and sites you can see.
Can I stay longer in Japan?
Absolutely! We encourage you to make the most of being here if you can. It is a beautiful time of year to travel - the temperature is not too hot and you may get to see the early signs of Spring! We're happy to share our advice and tips also.
What if I have a dietary concern?
Please contact us prior to completing your booking so we can discuss options and limitations. Unfortunately, we are unable to guarantee that we can cater to all specific dietary requirements or allergies.
What is your cancellation policy?
All bookings are final and non-refundable. Transfers may be possible before the date specified in your Terms and Conditons. Please read the full Terms and Conditions prior to booking.
Where can I find out more about you?
Aims
Website: www.indybindy.com.au
Instagram: www.instagram.com/indybindyfabrics
Facebook: www.facebook.com/indybindyfabrics
Victoria
Website: www.bikudesigns.com
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@studio_biku
Instagram: www.instagram.com/bikudesigns
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bikudesigns
Don't miss this!
We would love to see you in Tokyo! This is going to be an experience like no other.
Spots are limited and will sell out.
3 - 10 October 2027
18 - 26 February 2028
Don't miss this!
We would love to see you in Tokyo! This is going to be an experience like no other.
Spots are limited and will sell out.
3 - 10 October 2027
18 - 26 February 2028
