Connecting Brittany, France, and Tango, Kyoto: An International Exchange Project on Ocean Wisdom (Part 5)
Day 5 – Threads, Flavors, and Farewell: From Tango to the Forest of Keihoku
June 19, 2025
The final morning in Tango was about traditions. This day gave students one last opportunity to engage with the cultural heart of the region, before turning a new page and heading inland to the woodland Kyoto (Mori no Kyoto).
Meeting the Mayor of Miyazu
The day began with a courtesy visit to Mayor Kizaki of Miyazu City. Alongside the French professors, the mayor spoke about the connections built over the past week, and the potential for future cooperation between Miyazu and Guilvinec’s marine high schools.
It was a moment to reflect on what had been accomplished in just a few days: not only shared experiences, but the start of a longer relationship between two coastal communities, across countries and cultures.
Later, Miyazu Mayor talked about their will to have Amanohashidate enlisted in the World heritage. As Miyazu/Ine bay is sister bay with Mont Saint-Michel, which is listed on the World Heritage List, it would be logical for them to also be on it but it has already been more than ten years and still no improvement.
Inside the World of Tango Chirimen – Tayuh Textile Industry Co.
The students then headed toward Amino to visit the Tango Chirimen Tayuh Textile Workshop, a family-run weaving house that offered students a close-up look at the art of Tango chirimen, the region’s signature silk crepe. Guided by Mr. Tamoi himself, students observed the detailed steps of the weaving process, from setting up the threads to the steady rhythm of the looms at work.
The students could feel the concentration and precision in every movement, and the depth of tradition woven into every piece of fabric thanks to the looms and Jacquard machines. They learned how patterns, textures, and colors are developed, and how this textile, once reserved for aristocrats, is now used in everything from fashion to interior design, both in Japan and abroad. More and more exchanges are made and a lot of international designers want to collaborate with Chirimen producers. They also could feel the soft chirimen fabric and some students bought Tayuh Textile products following the guiding.
Industry and Innovation at Tango Open
Then, the group visited Tango Open, a factory and industry hub operated by the Tango Textile Industry Association. The students could have a clear view of the industrial side of Tango chirimen production, and a step-by-step look at how the fabric is made.
Students followed the process from unprocessed silk rolls, coming directly from Tayuh Textile factory, to the removal of impurities, then through various stages of treatment to remove sericin, softening, and finishing, observing the machines and techniques used to give the fabric its signature texture. It was a rare chance to see just how much precision and coordination are required, not just from one artisan, but from an entire production team.
The visit also showed how traditional craftsmanship and technology are working together to maintain high quality and efficiency. Students left with a new appreciation not only for the beauty of the finished fabric, but also for the behind-the-scenes work that supports the entire Tango textile ecosystem. Lastly, they took part in a workshop to create either a pin’s or a magnet using chirimen.
Making Tango Bara-zushi
Before saying goodbye to Tango, the group gathered at the Centrale Hotel kitchen for one last cultural experience: preparing and eating Tango Bara-zushi, a colorful local dish made with vinegared rice and a variety of seasonal toppings.
With guidance from local cooks, students did their own bara-zushi by arranging slices of fish, omelette, and vegetables into a beautiful dish. It was fun and surprisingly calming, a moment to slow down and appreciate, a moment that students really enjoyed, especially when it was ready and they were about to eat. This bara-zushi was served with tempura and miso soup.
Arrival in Woodland Kyoto
In the afternoon, the group left the coast behind and traveled into the forested interior of Kyoto Prefecture, arriving in the mountainous area of Kyoto known for its natural beauty and slower pace of life.
On their way to Keihoku, the group made a stop in Miyama at Kayabuki no Sato, a village known for its rows of traditional thatched-roof houses, some of which are over 200 years old. The crosses on the roof refers to the importance of the family living here going from 3 to 9 and always with uneven numbers.
Surrounded by forested hills and quiet rice fields, the village offered a peaceful way into rural Japanese life. Students took a walk through the village, admiring the unique architecture and serene atmosphere. It was a simple visit, but one that added depth to their understanding of Japan’s regional heritage. Then, they took off their shoes and put their feet in the cool, clear river that runs nearby, a welcome moment of calm after a busy week.
As evening approached, they arrived at their new lodging: Auru Keihoku, a peaceful accommodation nestled among the trees. The day ended with a barbecue dinner shared outdoors, where students could eat, relax, and begin to shift into the next phase of their journey.
From the Sea to the Mountains
If the Tango exchange was about immersion, Keihoku promised renewal, a change of setting, rhythm, and atmosphere. New landscapes, artisans and traditions were waiting for them and new places to explore.
Writer: Mathieu Fonseca
Thanks to: ROOTS, Lycée Public Maritime du Guilvinec, Mrs. Hayakawa (coordinator and interpreter)
Special thanks to sponsors: Fondation franco-japonaise Sasakawa (日仏笹川財団), la caisse des péris en mer, Hénaff, Penmarch city, Loctudy city
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