ABOVE: Michelle G of Livermore CA shows off the itajima project she made in a shibori workshop in Arimatsu.
By Patricia Belyea
Textile Tours To Japan
Traveling always sounds like so much fun — exciting, adventurous! But in reality, traveling can also be arduous.
In designing textile tours to Japan, I have given lots of thought to how I like to travel — to what brings me true happiness.
Slow Travel
When an itinerary promises everything, it usually means you’re constantly on the move—packing, unpacking, heading to the next destination.
At Okan Arts, we take a different approach. We like to stay in one place for as long as possible, allowing our travelers to truly immerse themselves in Japan’s culture, people, and textiles.
Curated Activities
Our tours are designed for quilting enthusiasts, textile aficionados, and lovers of all things Japanese.
Over the years, we’ve built strong relationships with textile artisans, masters, and sensei. We partner with each one to develop a memorable learning event — typically a hands-on workshop or insider visit.
Small and Personal
It is best to keep groups small in Japan so our tours cap at 16 travelers — not too big, not too small. This just-right size fosters connection and camaraderie, turning fellow participants into an instant community.
Our leadership team — Victoria, myself, and our beloved Japanese guide, Yumi — cultivates an atmosphere of encouragement and care. As one traveler put it: “No drama, all love.”
More Than Sakura Radiance
Our tours align with Japan’s breathtaking seasons — Plum Blossoms, Cherry Blossoms, and Fall Colors.
But beyond nature’s glory, the tours provide time and space for personal rejuvenation. With solo-occupancy rooms in 4- and 5-star hotels, each traveler can bloom on their own — away from the pressures of their busy lives.
Japan Is Our Only Destination
With a deep understanding of each venue and event, we provide seamless experiences. Plus, our hosts welcome us and our tour groups like old friends.
This knowledge and familiarity give our travelers confidence—they know they’re in good hands.
It’s A Joy
When I tell people I’ve retired, they don’t believe me. Sharing Japan’s rich textile traditions with passionate travelers isn’t work—it’s my pleasure.
My co-leader Victoria is my youngest daughter. Together, we are dedicated to delivering “the trip of a lifetime” for every traveler. What could be more perfect than sharing this mission with someone I love and trust?
To book an upcoming textile tour to Japan with Okan Arts +click here
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ABOUT US: Okan Arts, a petite family business, is co-owned by mother-daughter duo Patricia Belyea and Victoria Stone. Patricia and Victoria sell Japanese textiles online, host creative quilting experiences, and lead quilting & textile tours to Japan.
FOLLOW OKAN ARTS ON INSTAGRAM @okanarts
