Crafts and practices that endure to this day
Yaeyama textiles, each with unique materials and patterns, vary from island to island. On Taketomi Island, where the distinctive Minsa weaving originated, people gave gift loved ones indigo-dyed sashes woven with splashed patterns, symbolizing "harmony and closeness forever and ever".
Textiles are gifts from the island's nature
Women used to weave the colors and patterns of the island by planting cotton and indigo, or by extracting dyes from the island's native plants. Today, islanders still cherish the skills and continue the tradition of textile-making.
Foxtail millet is an important crop on the island
On the island not blessed with water, foxtail millet, grown instead of rice, was considered precious as an offering to the gods. Under the guidance of islanders, it is cultivated in the fields of HOSHINOYA.
Daily necessities made from plants on the island
On Taketomi Island, most of the tools needed for daily life were made by each household. From farming implements to children's toys, various implements were crafted using the characteristics of indigenous plants.