The first dedicated design museum and the only V&A anywhere outside of London - V&A Dundee, is currently showcasing an incredible display of Japanese kimonos. The exhibition tells the fascinating story of how the Kimono became a dynamic evolving icon of fashion. Here is why you should visit the Kimono: Kyoto To Catwalk Exhibition.
Kimono: Kyoto To Catwalk Exhibition At Scotland's V&A
I am so excited to share the V&A Dundee's latest exhibition Kimono: Kyoto To Catwalk Exhibition. I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibition, seeing the beautiful handcrafted embroidered kimonos, and learning all about the different types of kimonos used by both men and women, as well as the different occasions they are worn, and the variety of accessories used. Did you know there is also a Star Wars connection? Highly recommend a visit!
About The V&A Dundee
The V&A Dundee is the first dedicated design museum and the only V&A anywhere outside of London. Designed by renowned award-winning Japanese architects Kengo Kuma & Associates, following an international competition, and is Kuma’s first building in the UK.
The building consists of two structures, shaped like upside-down pyramids. They are separate on the ground floor and twist to meet on the top floor. This meeting point forms a tunnel, creating a frame and route through which the city and the river are reconnected.
Opening in September 2018, it has welcomed over 1.7 million visitors!
The V&A is easily accessible for all, across two levels with a variety of different exhibitions taking place simultaneously. There is also a gift shop on the ground floor with exhibition-inspired gifts, treats, and more. On the upper level is the newly refurbished Tatha Bar & Kitchen, serving delicious hot and cold food, beverages, and sweet treats.
About Kimono: Kyoto To Catwalk Exhibition
The Kimono: Kyoto To Catwalk Exhibition shares the story of the Japanese Kimono with around 300 garments, including historic garments from the 17th century through to the present day (an-inspired Taylor Swift designed Kimono). There is also a selection of delicate accessories, paintings, prints, photographs, and film clips. You can also design your own Kimono at the interactive design station. Don't forget to look out for the Star Wars connection with Obi-Wan Kenobi and the Taylor Swift inspired kimono.
The exhibition is taking place until Sunday 5th January 2025. Don't miss the final chance to see these rare works together, on the last stop of the exhibition’s international tour.
If visiting on Sunday 29th September, why not join in on the inspired Kimono: Kyoto To Catwalk workshop in the Thomson Learning Centre? Create stunning hand-printed kimono patterns and paper origami. Suitable for all ages. Free, drop-in between 12.30 - 16.30.
About Dundee
Dundee is the home to the three J's, Jute Journalism and Jam! Scotland's fourth largest city has an estimated population of over 147,000 by the National Records of Scotland - NRS in 2021. Dundee is a must-visit and a great day out from Edinburgh (though if you can, I would highly recommend a few days to fully explore everything Dundee has to offer including not only the incredible V&A but also Discovery Point, home to the RRS Discovery. The Royal Research Ship which was designed and built for exploration in the Antarctic, set sail from Dundee in 1901 with explorers Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton, there is also the jute museum - Verdant Works, where you can discover the fascinating story of Jute and no visit to Dundee would be complete without a slice of Dundee cake!
How To Get To Dundee/V&A
The city of Dundee is really easy to reach. From Edinburgh, you can take the Scottish Citylink Coach, Ember Coach (the UK's first all-electric, intercity bus service), Scotrail train, or by car. It is approx an hour and 30 minutes by train from Edinburgh Waverley Train Station. Dundee Train Station is centrally located and almost opposite the entrance to the V&A Dundee.
Staying In Dundee
There are some lovely hotels, as well as other types of accommodation available for all budgets in Dundee. We stayed at the Apex Hotel 4* which is centrally located, with parking and only a few minutes walk along the Quay to the V&A.
The hotel is very comfortable with excellent amenities including a restaurant, leisure facilities, and a spa. The rooms have a television, coffee/tea-making facilities, and complimentary wifi. I have no doubts in recommending this lovely hotel and look forward to staying here again in the near future.
I hope you have enjoyed reading Kimono: Kyoto To Catwalk Exhibition at Scotland's V&A and are inspired to visit this incredible and fascinating exhibition delving into some of Japan's culture. If you would like to learn more about Japan please visit the A to Z Travel Blog - Japan.
Until next time...happy travels,
Michelle x
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