Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on January 2012

Usually covered in AstroTurf, the Tokyo Dome once each year gives up its surfaces to quilt fanatics. Bedding might not sound so exciting, but as quilt otaku will know, blankets have provided the canvas for many an artist’s imagination, resulting in some of the world’s most intriguing creations. 19th century American masterpieces are exhibited along with the latest creations from Japan’s current generation of quilters competing for a grand prize. The festival will be enlivened by Hawaiian dance performances and other attractions each and every day.

Tokyo Dome, Jan 20-28 (listings).