Ai Zome, or Indigo Dyeing, can most notably be found in Tokushima Prefecture, located on Shikoku Island. This indigo dyeing technique can be traced back approximately 800 years in this region, which provided crucial geographical features aiding in this craft; for example, the Yoshino River, running through Northern Tokushima, provides an ideal growing environment for the Japanese Indigo Plant. Dyes from the Indigo plant require patience, time, and expertise to extract, taking approximately one year to complete; the Indigo must be planted, harvested, and then fermented. Though a long and arduous task, it is also a rewarding one, resulting in brilliantly colored indigo dye that can be used to create endless patterns and shades.