We attended our third exhibit at the Fabrica de San Pedro in Uruapan, Michoacan. The Fabrica is known for hosting conventions but Susan, the owner, told me that they would like to see it become a cultural center as well. So far I think they are successful in this goal! This exhibit has been a favorite. Since it started on April 6th, the Japanese Kimono Exhibit has received over 5000 visitors!
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The collection of gorgeous kimonos, obis, and various designs belong to Minoru Kobayashi, a Japanese resident of Uruapan. The collection was passed down to Señor Kobayashi from the female members of his family. The earliest designs are over 100 years old. My 8-year-old son entertained himself by running around and reading all the dates on the placards. He is a number’s man :-)
I was in awe of the beauty of these Japanese garments. I would happily wear a few myself, in a cooler climate of course ;-) I learned that kimonos can be worn on many occasions but that the obi, (the fabric piece that is placed around the waist and tied in the back), is what really makes the dress shine or not. There are obis for all occasions. Some obis are strictly formal for parties and other fancy events. Obis can be tied in the back as a large bow or used as a little backpack of sorts for carrying various things.
This exhibit is going to be held through August 25th, so if you can visit I highly recommend it. Entry is free however they have a donation box so be sure to make a contribution. Take your kids as it’s a cool piece of Japanese history and culture. It made a nice little homeschool field trip for my four niños. The Fabrica is near Centro, Parque Lineal, and the National Park so you can make a whole day of it in Uruapan, Michoacan, enjoying nature and culture :-)
Side note: This was an impromptu visit so I only had my old smartphone for taking pictures! How I wish I had my professional camera. I apologize for the blur!
Originally published June 3, 2019
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A ridiculous amount of coffee was consumed in the process of creating this project. Add some fuel if you'd like to keep me going ;-) Gracias!
Thank you for sharing this. Fortunately, I will be in Uruapan next month, so I will be sure to visit. I’ve lived in Chapala, Jalisco, for 15 years (after six months in Japan) but am ready for a change. I was wondering if there are any gringos in Uruapan, which is how I found your blog.
Very few compared to the number in tourist or expat communities like Chapala. Uruapan is a big city so we have all the cool stuff like a cinema and coffee shops but it still has a very authentic feel with everyone speaking Spanish :-) Enjoy the exhibit!