Kurume ikat is textile fabric woven in Kurume City, Fukuoka Pref. This fabric dates back to some time around 1800, when a girl named Inoue Den in the castle town in Arima Province was inspired by white dots found on her clothing. As she was interested in weaving so much, she studied how they appeared and discovered the weaving technique of splashed patterns, which she named “Kasuri (ikat).” The ikat became famous all over the county for its beauty and durability and ikat production formed a firm foundation in the southern part of Chikugo area with Kurume as its center. Kurume ikat is a yarn-dyed fabric. It is woven with threads that were tied before dyeing so that the design has a real depth. As it is an unpretentious fabric, it is put to use for many articles such as kimono, small accessories, and interior decorations. In 1957, Kurume ikat was designated as Important Intangible Cultural Property.