Tochio-tsumugi is a silk textile woven in the Tochio district of Nagaoka City. Each village in the area historically produced its own unique designs. According to ancient records, Tochio-tsumugi is said to be the oldest tsumugi (pongee silk) among Niigata’s weaving traditions. One of its defining characteristics is the use of tsumugi yarn (spun silk) not only for the weft but also for the warp. Because tsumugi yarn is uneven and full of slubs, weaving with both warp and weft requires advanced skill. However, this technique creates a soft texture with a subdued luster, giving the fabric a gentle and refined feel that distinguishes it as a unique silk textile.