Todaya Shoten Tenugui - Koinobori

A tenugui is a light cotton hand towel that has a wide range of uses, from wrapping books and lunch boxes to gift wrapping or drying hands. This tenugui is produced by Todaya Shōten using a specialized hand-dyeing technique, chusen. Unlike surface printing, chusen allows dye to penetrate through the fabric, so the design appears clearly on both sides. The pattern is drawn from a stencil, then outlined with a glue-like paste that separates each area, allowing the cloth to be dyed in multiple colours.

This tenugui features koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks) being raised and swimming in the sky to celebrate Children’s Day, a national holiday on 5 May in Japan. The carp is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and success, reflecting hopes for children to grow up embodying these qualities, much like the carp swimming upstream. The koinobori are typically flown on poles outside the home in various colours and sizes, each representing a member of the family.

Wash separately from other items for the first few washes.
Avoid using detergents that contain bleach.
Handwash or use a gentle/handwash setting on your washing machine.
Allow to dry thoroughly after washing.
Do not leave soaking for long periods, as this may cause colours to fade.

Size: 37×90cm

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.