The Noren of Katsuyama

Not much happens in Katsuyama. It is one of those places that has a few stores on the street and you wonder how on earth people here make a living. Located in Maniwa in Northern Okayama, the Main Street still retains an Edo like architecture, with white plastered storehouses, lattice windows and merchant homes.

One thing that brings this small town to life though, are the noren hanging out the front of many buildings, each one representing the life of the shop or house it adorns.

And all of this is due to one lady - Yoko Kano.

Each Noren she dyes and weaves for the residents of Katsuyama is especially made to reflect that persons life or what they wish to convey about their home or shop. She's made more than 2000 noren since she started here studio in 1997.

You can visit Yoko at her Studio Hinoki and purchase your own ready made noren or organise one made to order in advance.