Leather Pouch - Grey

Drawing on traditions of the Matagi people of Tōhoku, northeastern Japan, this leather pouch was designed for everyday use as a modern accessory. It is soft and durable, and keeps its contents safe from moisture. The Matagi are a distinct group whose culture has roots in hunting and the mountains. Their heritage holds that every animal is a gift from the mountain gods, and as such when hunting their practice has been to praise and use every part of their prey, leaving nothing to waste. The Matagi culture has produced winter clothes from deer hide and pouches like these to carry tools and gunpowder. The hide used in these products is derived from the annual cull of around 20,000 deer in Iwate Prefecture, a measure necessary to control their population, and reduce damage to forests and crops. The ‘yama no itadaki‘ project was born to commercialise products made of deer hide that would otherwise be wasted, and to generate awareness of living respectfully with the mountain environment and provoke a sense of gratitude and reverence towards nature.

Size: L10 cm x W8.5 cm

Kantō

The Kantō region is densely populated and home to a third of the country's population. It is centred around the nation's vibrant capital – Tokyo, formerly known as Edo, which has been the cultural, economic and political heart of Japan for centuries. Outside this megacity, there are mountains, onsen and ski resorts, magnificent temple complexes and excellent surfing opportunities within easy reach.