About Tsugaru Kogin Zashi (Tsugaru Kogin Embroidery)
Tsugaru Kogin Zashi is a type of sashiko embroidery from the Tsugaru region of Aomori Prefecture. Since the Edo period, rural women have used a distinctive embroidery technique of closely stitching white cotton thread onto linen cloth, combining the practicality of cold protection and reinforcement with geometric beauty. The word 'kogin' derives from 'kohaba' (small width), originally developing as reinforcement for farm work clothing (kogin clothing). Characterized by geometric patterns such as polka dots, crosses, and diagonal lattice, it has been passed down by women as the winter handiwork of snowy Tsugaru, representing Tohoku's sashiko craft tradition.
Techniques & Materials
Craft terms are shown in the original Japanese — these are proper names with no standard English equivalents.
Techniques
Materials
Where to see & buy
Workshop names are in Japanese; links go to their official sites.
- 弘前市立観光館（産地にご確認ください） hands-on experience