FRONTRUNNERS — Season 1, Episode 9: Kyoto Kimono Dyer - Tabata Kihachi

Episode synopsis

Kyo-yuzen is a famous dyed textile from Kyoto Prefecture, used in kimono. The Tabata family have been top producers for decades; they've produced garments for a royal wedding, costumes for maiko in a popular dance performance and modern kimono too. The 88-year-old, 5th generation owner, Tabata Kihachi, produces dynamic, contemporary designs that preserve traditional techniques. At a solo exhibition in Tokyo, he shares his wisdom with visitors, and explains why people wearing kimono seem to glow.

About FRONTRUNNERS

FRONTRUNNERS highlights professionals at the very forefront of their field. We showcase their amazing work, discover their motivations, and learn about the challenges they face in the future.

More episodes from Season 1

• E1Prosthetics Pioneer - Usui Fumio
• E2Kyoto Foraging Master - Nakahigashi Hisato
• E3Rope Rescue Expert - Hayashida Akihiro
• E4Children's Hospice Founder - Tagawa Hisato
• E5Vegan Washoku Chef - Kusumoto Katsumi
• E6Japanese Cheese Trailblazer - Shibata Chiyo
• E7Master Gardener - Kitayama Yasuo
• E8Helicopter Physician - Tsugita Nobuyuki
• E10Thatching Innovator - Sagara Ikuya
• E11Pioneering Neurosurgeon - Kato Yoko