Left: After the first painting, additional color is applied in the re-painting process. This second painting increases the vibrancy of the color to create a sense of translucence through the rubbing of natural dye into the cloth.
Right: Isagawa Yoko, a leading bingata artisan working today.

If bashofu is the quintessential cloth of Okinawa, bingata (literally "red style"), which uses stencils and other methods, is the quintessential dyeing technique on the islands. Sophisticated quality bingata fabric was worn by the royal family of Ryukyu, who ruled Okinawa at one time. The vivid bingata hues are achieved with an initial painting (shading) followed by a re-painting step that involves rubbing the paint into the cloth and then a second dyeing with natural dyes.

Colorfully dyed bingata fabric embodies the dazzling Okinawan sun beautifully. The bright sunlight and infinitely blue sea are Okinawa's great points of appeal. The idyllic beaches of this southern climate invite visitors to swim and scuba dive in the sea. A trip to the lively Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium offers a great chance to marvel at massive whale sharks, manta rays, and other creatures of the Pacific Ocean and the Okinawan sea. Take in the splendor of the former Ryukyu Kingdom with a visit to spots of historic interest such as Shurijo Castle, a World Heritage site.

A trip to Okinawa offers the ideal combination of seaside recreation, sightseeing, and the fascination of traditional textile arts.