Up until the 1950s, the river near Nakai Station was home to many dyeing factories, and the water was used to wash their dyed goods. To pay homage to the history of this town, the "Some no Komichi" festival was created, and they celebrate it by hanging 'tan mono 反物' (long strips of fabric used to make kimono) above the river. Local businesses participate by hanging their own original 'noren のれん' which are curtains that are hung above the front doors of businesses to let customers know that they are open. Some parts of the area also have tables and stalls where people sell their own original handmade goods.
Where: 西武新宿線 中井駅, 1-19-1 Nakaochiai, Shinjuku, Tokyo 161-0032 Japan
When: Mid~late February (Please check website in late January)
How much: Free
Website: http://www.somenokomichi.com/
Some of the noren hanging above the front entrance of local businesses.
As you walk along the sides of the river, you can see the beautiful hand-dyed tanmono flowing in the wind.
love it! Japan has so many unique events. thanks for showing this one!