TOURS WITH LISA WALTON & AAHILYA HOLIDAYS
Join experienced tour leader Lisa Walton and Aahilya Holidays on a unique journey into the world of craft and textile traditions. Designed for creative travellers, our tours go beyond the typical tourist path to uncover hidden workshops, lively markets, and skilled artisans. With hands-on experiences and cultural insights, you’ll explore the stories behind the textiles and connect with the true spirit of each destination.
CRAFT & TEXTILE TRADITIONS OF SOUTH KOREA
WITH LISA WALTON 2026
This textile craft tour offers a rich journey into South Korea’s traditional and contemporary textile heritage. Explore hanbok and hanji in Jeonju, discover modern crafts in coastal Busan, and delve into ancient artistry in historic Gyeongju. In Daegu, Korea’s textile hub, experience fabric dyeing and weaving firsthand, before concluding in Seoul, where tradition meets innovation. It’s an inspiring blend of cultural discovery and hands-on creativity.
Highlights Of The Tour
- Participate in Natural dyeing workshop
- Bojagi (wrapping cloth) workshop
- Embroidery session to create a traditional bokjumeoni (lucky pouch)
- Tteok (rice cake) making in Gyeongj
- Visit to Jinju Silk Museum and Silk Research Centre
- Tour the Chojun Textile & Quilt Art Museum.
- Explore Dongdaemun Design Plaza & Textile market.
- Stroll through Jeonju Hanok Village in traditional hanbok
- Discover historic Bulguksa Temple and Woljeong Bridge in Gyeongju
- Visit Gyeongbok Palace and Flying Horse Tomb in Seoul
- Nakdong Rail Bike Ride and Raspberry Wine Cave in Gimhae
- Explore Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Seafood Market, and Gwangan
Beach - Day trip to Chuncheon with visit to Nami Island and Soyanggang Skywalk .
17th – 28th November 2026
For more information & itinerary – www.aahilyaholidays.com
CRAFT & TEXTILE TRADITIONS OF VIETNAM
WITH LISA WALTON 2026
A textile tour of Vietnam is an enchanting journey through a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and traditions. Discover the artistry of ethnic minority groups like the Hmong and Dao, renowned for their intricate weaving techniques. Immerse yourself in the world of silk production, from the serene beauty of mulberry fields to the delicate process of weaving.
Explore vibrant markets brimming with textiles, and learn ancient dyeing techniques using natural pigments. A textile tour in Vietnam is not just about admiring beautiful fabrics; it’s about connecting with local artisans, understanding their stories, and appreciating the enduring legacy of this rich cultural heritage.
Highlights Of The Tour
- Explore the capital’s ancient streets, iconic landmarks, and the captivating Ho Chi Minh Complex.
- Learn the art of traditional Vietnamese hand embroidery.
- Visit to the majestic Hue Citadel and the serene Thien Mu Pagoda.
- Experience a traditional royal dinner.
- Visit Hope Centre.
- Participate in Indigo dyeing workshop
- Enjoy the cable car ride to Ba Na Hills.
- Visit to the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace.
- Explore Cai Be’s waterways.
- Witness traditional brick kilns, Vinhlong market.
1st -13th December 2026
For more information & itinerary – www.aahilyaholidays.com
TEXTILE, CRAFTS & CULTURE JOURNEY OF GUJARAT
WITH LISA WALTON 2027
This thoughtfully curated Textiles, Crafts & Culture Journey of Gujarat with Lisa Walton offers a rich exploration of India’s textile heritage and living craft traditions. Beginning in Ahmedabad, India’s first UNESCO World Heritage City, the tour features heritage walks, visits to Sabarmati Ashram and Shreyas Folk Museum, and hands-on experiences such as a Mata-ni-Pachedi painting workshop. The journey continues to Patan and Modhera to discover the UNESCO-listed Rani ki Vav stepwell, Patola double ikat silk weaving, and the magnificent Sun Temple. Moving into the Little Rann of Kutch, guests enjoy a jeep safari in the Wild Ass Sanctuary before travelling to Bhuj and surrounding villages for immersive encounters with Rabari, Meghwal, Ahir and other artisan communities. Highlights include workshops and visits to masters in Bandhani tie-dye, Ajrakh block printing, mirror embroidery, Tangaliya weaving, Rogan art, copper bell making and lacquer woodwork, along with a visit to the Living & Learning Design Centre. Carefully paced and deeply engaging, the tour offers meaningful cultural exchange and an authentic insight into Gujarat’s extraordinary craft traditions.
Highlights Of The Tour
- Explore Ahmedabad’s heritage, textiles, and historic architecture
- Visit Rani ki Vav and Modhera Sun Temple (UNESCO sites)
- Learn Patola double ikat weaving in Patan
- Experience the Little Rann of Kutch and Banni villages
- Hands-on workshops in Ajrakh printing, Bandhani, and embroidery
- Meet artisan communities of Rabari, Meghwal, and Khatri traditions
- Discover Nirona crafts including Rogan painting and copper bells
- Curated craft and cultural journey led by Lisa Walton
30th January – 9th February 2027
For more information & itinerary – www.aahilyaholidays.com
A TEXTILE, CRAFT & CULTURAL JOURNEY OF UZBEKISTAN WITH LISA WALTON 2027
Uzbekistan is a landlocked country in Central Asia known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. It was once an important stop on the Silk Road, and its cities are still home to some of the most impressive examples of Islamic architecture in the world. Tashkent, the capital city, is a modern metropolis with wide boulevards, Soviet-era buildings, and a bustling bazaar. The ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with stunning mosques, madrasas, and mausoleums that date back to the 9th century.
Uzbekistan is also known for its delicious cuisine, which blends influences from Russia, China, and the Middle East. Visitors can try traditional dishes like plov (rice pilaf with meat and vegetables), lagman (noodle soup), and shashlik (grilled meat). With friendly locals, affordable prices, and a rich cultural heritage, Uzbekistan is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and food.
Highlights Of The Tour
- Participate in Block printing, ceramics and embroidery workshop.
- Master class of cooking national dish “manty”.
- Visit famous Museums.
- Explore silk processing factory.
- Visit the master Potter.
- Visit Lab-i-khauz, madrassah Nadirkhon Devanbegi Khanaga, Poi Kalon minaret and Ulugbek.
- Visit Gijduvan a center of famous handmade ceramic.
25th March – 9th April 2027
For more information & itinerary – www.aahilyaholidays.com
DISCOVER KYRGYSTAN
WITH LISA WALTON 2027
Set out on an unforgettable adventure through Central Asia, tracing the footsteps of ancient traders along the legendary Silk Road. This journey takes you deep into the heart of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, two countries rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. Experience the awe-inspiring landscapes of snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes, and remote valleys. Wander through lively bazaars, visit centuries-old caravanserais, and connect with local nomadic communities who still preserve traditional ways of life. With its unique blend of historic charm and untouched wilderness, this trip offers a rare and enriching look at two of the Silk Road’s best-kept secrets.
Highlights Of The Tour
- Visit Osh Bazaar and Aidai women’s workshop
- Participate in crochet embroidery workshop
- Visit Burana Tower and explore Boom Gorge
- Visit Issyk-Kul Lake and Kyzyl Tuu village
- Participate in traditional felt-making workshop in Bokonbaevo
- Explore Skazka Canyon
- Stay in a traditional yurt camp and experience nomadic life
- Visit Chon-Kemin National Park
- Participate in Boorsok bread-making cooking class
9th – 17th April 2027
For more information & itinerary – www.aahilyaholidays.com
CRAFT, CULTURE & TEXTILE TOUR OF JAPAN
with Lisa Walton 2027
Discover the artistic soul of Japan on a thoughtfully curated journey led by Lisa Walton. This immersive tour offers a rich blend of traditional craftsmanship, cultural exploration, and contemporary design. Explore Japan’s diverse creative heritage through visits to museums, artisan studios, and textile hubs, with insights into time-honoured techniques. Along the way, enjoy authentic cultural experiences, regional cuisine, and meaningful interactions with local makers.
Highlights Of The Tour
- Enjoy a Tatami-Beri DIY experience, creating traditional fabric crafts
- Visit Awagami Factory for Japanese paper-making and an indigo-dyed handkerchief experience
- View the famous whirlpools from the Onaruto Bridge (Uzu no Michi)
- Experience traditional storytelling at the Awaji Puppet Theater
- Explore Yumebutai Gardens and architecture by Tadao Ando
- Relax at Zenbo Seinei with incense holder crafting and Zen meditation
- Participate in traditional Japanese calligraphy experience
- Visit teamLab Botanical Garden
- Create scented bags at the Kyoto Handicraft Center
- Visit Nishiki market, Nomura Fabric Store and Nayamachi Shopping street.
- Participate in Japanese cooking class
- Visit the beautiful seasonal garden of Nabana no Sato
- Participate in making a Sarubobo doll at Hida Takayama Crafts Experience Center
- Visit Byodoin Temple and enjoy a Uji tea tasting
- Experience the spiritual atmosphere of Koyasan
- Try a lacquerware Maki-e hands-on experience
- Visit Wakayama Castle
- Explore the historic Todaiji Temple
- Visit the Chichu Art Museum and Benesse House Museum
18th August – 2nd September 2027
For more information & itinerary – www.aahilyaholidays.com
I had the wonderful opportunity to join Lisa on the UK Festival of Quilts textile tour—a memorable three weeks filled with fun, learning, and textile adventures.
It was a joy to be part of a group of like-minded individuals. We were a diverse group with two New Zealanders, two Australians, and six participants from the USA.
Lisa was an exceptional leader, always ensuring that everyone’s needs were met and that we all felt cared for (as much as independent women need). We were also fortunate to have a knowledgeable local tour guide with us.
I must say, the entire tour was thoughtfully planned, and I would love to join another one in the future—though it might be a year or two before I can do so!
Mary Transom, UK Festival of Quilts Tour 2024I thoroughly enjoyed a recent Textile Tour of Japan, ably led by Lisa, through Aahilya Tours.14 like-minded ladies, and one gent, had so much fun, and saw all manner of Japanese craft and participated in workshops.We did two different forms of fabric dyeing, remade kimonos, mastered gold-leaf work, and learnt the intricacies of weaving. Museums and shrines, bamboo forests and Japanese markets and food were some of the highlights. We capped off the trip with a bullet train journey back to Tokyo.The Japanese people are polite and friendly, patient and helpful. Arigato
‘Lisa’s Japan tour was THE trip of a lifetime! It was fantastic. I went on my own and I was happy to share a room. I was paired up with a kindred spirit from another state which made the trip all that more enjoyable. The tour has a textile and food focus. Lisa is a beautiful soul who looks after you. She is full of facts and helpful hints to make your trip even more enjoyable. You get to visit great temples, geisha town and traditional gardens which provide essential Zen moments. Enjoy an amazing stay at Fuji-san and take a quick ride on the gondola up to the lookout to experience Mt Fuji in all its glory. The Tokyo Quilt Show, traditional markets and textile shops and of course, Nippori town are just a few of the textile shopping opportubities you get to visit and make purchases if you wish. You experience first hand, traditional crafts at shibori town, indigo dyeing, paper making and yuzen skills and you get to learn these from the masters and artisans. The accommodation is organised as part of the package and each one is so comfortable with trained staff ready to make you feel like a special guest. The tour presents you with hands-on experiences such as making traditional sushi, playing Japanese bingo, and learning traditional song and dance. You get the option to partake in a traditional Onsen. Celebrate the tour with a traditional Japanese degustation. Lisa’s Japan Tour is an extremely positive experience and it has left me wanting to go back to Japan again.’