Travel with WMQFA

 
 

Threads of Japan—May 2027

Join us for an intimate artist-led experience!

A 15-day, artist-led journey through Japan’s textile traditions, designed for the WMQFA community, with quilter Sarah Nishiura.

Key Details

  • May 6–21, 2027

  • Tour starts in Tokyo and ends in Kyoto

  • Small Group Experience

  • $8,950/person (airfare must be purchased separately)

Extending WMQFA’s Mission Beyond the Museum Walls

This journey extends the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts’ mission by connecting our community directly with the global traditions, artists, and techniques shaping fiber art today.

Travel with fellow enthusiasts and experience Japan’s vibrant textile culture through workshops, lectures, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access.

More Than Travel: A Curated Experience

  • Learn from Experts
    Sarah Nishiura and native Japanese translator Takako Willden will lead the trip, providing artistic guidance and cultural insights every step of the way.

  • Hands-On Workshops
    Try indigo dyeing, sashiko stitching, and traditional Japanese crafts and textile techniques alongside master artisans. This trip is for you if you are interested in immersive experiences and small-group workshops with renowned Japanese artists.

  • Museum-Level Access
    Visit the Japan Mingei Museum and the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, among many other cultural sites.

  • Meet the Makers
    Connect directly with Japanese quilting communities and textile artists.

The Journey: Tokyo to Kyoto

Tokyo: Design, Inspiration, and Contemporary Practice

  • Lectures and design exploration with Sarah Nishiura and quilt designer Kumiko Fujita

  • Itazome dyeing workshop

  • Japan Craft Show

  • Fabric district and museums

  • Kimono & tea ceremony

Fuji & Matsumoto: Landscape & Material Culture

Takayama: Technique & Tradition

Tokushima & Kyoto: Mastery, Indigo & Gardens

Full itinerary and registration

This trip is ideal for:

  • Textile artists (quilting, weaving, fiber arts)

  • Museum members and collectors

  • Creatives seeking inspiration

  • Travelers interested in Japanese culture

Important Details

  • Moderate activity level (walking, stairs, transit)

  • Must be able to handle luggage independently

  • Travel insurance is required

  • Limited dietary accommodations—please reach out to director@wiquiltmuseum.com for questions regarding dietary needs.

Pricing—$8,950 per person

Includes:

  • Single accommodation

  • Chartered bus use

  • Workshop fees and lectures

  • Museum admissions

  • Transportation (excluding final bullet train + international airfare)

  • Meals as specified

Travel with Artist Sarah Nishiura

Sarah Nishiura grew up in Detroit and now lives in Chicago, where she uses traditional techniques to craft one-of-a-kind quilts from her own designs. Sarah learned to sew from her mother and learned to love geometry from her father. From her grandparents, who were great builders, painters, stitchers, weavers and gardeners, she learned that making things is one of the greatest imperatives, privileges and pleasures in life.

Sarah's quilts are all pieced from 100% cotton recycled and vintage materials, backed with new yardage, and then hand quilted. It can take up to 4 months to complete a quilt, but the result is strong, durable, and suitable for warmth or display.

Join us! Space is limited for this intimate artist-led experience!

Testimonials from Previous Trips

I participated in the Art & Culture Tour of Japan, sponsored by the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts, in November 2025. It was one of the best travel experiences I have ever had. The trip was a perfect blend of sightseeing and textile art events (fabric stores, embroidery workshop, textile museums, etc.). Although we were busy from morning to evening, I always felt happy and relaxed because every detail was so well planned. Tickets, meals, hotel rooms, transportation: all taken care of by the organizers, leaving me the freedom to enjoy the sights and sounds of Japan, a remarkable country. I highly recommend this tour! - Lauren

Attending the Art & Culture Tour of Japan was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The trip offered an incredible blend of art, culture, and creative inspiration, including hands-on workshops, cultural tours, and time to work on our own projects alongside fellow makers.

What stood out most was the organizers' exceptional attention to detail. Every element of the itinerary felt thoughtfully planned. The entire journey was seamless and deeply enriching. The trip created a rare environment that encouraged both rest and creativity, allowing participants to slow down, absorb Japan's beauty, and reconnect with their artistic practice. - Lisa

For questions regarding any of the trip details, please reach out to director@wiquiltmuseum.com