A small noasobi workshop to observe tensan larvae
as they begin to grow among the mountain trees.
On this day, we will spend time outdoors,
watching how the tiny larvae live on the young leaves of kunugi oak trees.
This is a quiet gathering to touch the time before silk,
before thread, and before cloth.
The outdoor activity itself will last about two hours.
Afterwards, we will return to the studio for a light handmade medicinal-style meal before closing.
Beginners are very welcome.
Overview
Date
June 6, 2026 (Sat)
10:00–13:00 approx. (with a light meal)
Place
Yamamayu Workshop, Yamanashi
Nearest Station
Ichikawadaimon Station, JR Minobu Line
We can pick you up by car from the station.
Group Size
2 to 5 participants
Minimum of 2 participants required
Fee
¥6,600 (tax included, light meal included)
What We Will Do
- A short introduction to tensan silkworms
- Observing tensan larvae growing outdoors
- Looking closely at young kunugi oak leaves and the surrounding environment
- Guidance on the mountain environment and the season
- Time to write small observation notes
- A short talk and time for questions back at the studio
- A handmade medicinal-style light meal at the end
The growth of the larvae depends on the weather, the condition of the leaves, and the rhythm of the natural environment. As this is an outdoor observation, what we can see may vary from day to day.
About This Gathering
Tensan is a type of wild silkworm, also known as yamamayu.
Unlike domesticated silkworms raised indoors, tensan lives among natural trees. The larvae feed on young leaves such as kunugi oak and eventually spin beautiful green cocoons.
In May, small tensan eggs were placed on the mountain trees. Around this time, the larvae begin to hatch and spend their days quietly on the young leaves.
In this gathering, we will observe the larvae and spend time with the life that exists before cocoon, before thread, and before cloth.
When we see a cocoon, a thread, or a finished textile, the time within it may appear calm and complete. But before that, there are days when eggs hatch, larvae feed on leaves, and small lives grow within the mountain landscape.
Through the noasobi workshop, we hope to share these quiet moments before the material becomes cloth.
What You Will Take Home
- A small handout or observation memo from the day
We hope you will also carry home what you noticed and felt as a quiet memory of the season.
Access
If you are coming by train, please come to Ichikawadaimon Station on the JR Minobu Line.
We will pick you up by car from the station.
If you are coming by car, parking is available.
Detailed directions will be provided after booking.
What to Wear / Bring
- Clothes that can get dirty
- Long sleeves
- Long trousers
- Boots or comfortable outdoor shoes
- Work gloves
- A hat
- Something to drink
- Rain gear (if rain is forecast)
For safety in the grass and outdoors, please wear clothing that covers your skin as much as possible.
After the activity, please also check your clothes and body for any insects.
The larvae are very small and delicate. When observing them, please avoid touching them strongly or shaking the branches and leaves.
In Case of Rain
The gathering will go ahead in light rain, but will be cancelled in severe weather.
We will contact you by the day before to confirm whether the gathering will take place.
Depending on the weather and the condition of the larvae, the outdoor observation time may be shortened.
Food
At the end of the gathering, we will prepare a light handmade medicinal-style meal.
Please let us know in advance if you have any food allergies.
The menu may vary depending on the season and the ingredients available that day.
Booking
Booking Deadline
By June 3, 2026 (Wed)
How to Book
Please book by email via the contact page.
When writing, please include your name, a phone number we can reach you on that day, your transportation method (train / car), and any allergies.
Payment
Please pay the participation fee on the day, at the studio.
Cancellation
If you need to cancel, please let us know as early as possible.
If the gathering is cancelled due to severe weather, we will contact you by the day before.
We hope this becomes a quiet time to observe the small lives growing on the leaves,
before they become cocoon, thread, and cloth.