The process of wrapping is at the heart of so much of Japanese traditions and sensibilities. You just have to look at the difference between a kimono and a Western suit jacket: the latter is cut to the shape of the body, whereas the former is wrapped around to fit. You can find the same approach in so many objects used in daily life in Japan, but nowhere is it more obvious than in furoshiki, the cloth used to wrap objects that also functions as a bag via the knot at the top. There were many bags as we know them used throughout Japanese history, but furoshiki were deemed preferable chiefly because you could always adapt the cloth to the object, rather than always having a bag that was either too big or too small, but rarely just right. Over time, their use--particularly by the merchants whose history Nihombashi Mitsukoshi is proud to have played such a role in--led to the furoshiki being produced in distinctive patterns and fabrics, until they became a part of the user's fashion in their own right.
Furoshiki Salon Senior Stylist Chieko Kiryu demonstrates furoshiki wrapping
Simple knots and wrapping techniques, especially for a basic bag, are very easy to learn. But the real appeal of the furoshiki comes from learning new ones for different shapes, as well as all the different knots possible. Nihombashi Mitsukoshi will open workshops in an event at the Central Hall, to help visitors unlock the almost unlimited possibilities of the humble furoshiki, and staffs are always on hand to demonstrate, and help the curious. Who knows: in time you might even be able to come up with designs of your own?
No-matter what your taste in design, whether you are drawn to tradition or more modernist designs, our extensive furoshiki section in the comfort of the Furoshiki Salon will have you covered, and the adventurous amongst you can always try some of the options made in Japan, including water repellent finished textiles designed to carry water in lieu of a bucket. Ultimately while furoshiki's origins are in traditional Japan, it's in effect a very modern idea, versatile, eco friendly, and even after all these years, open to new possibilities. So if you are looking for a gift that communicates real Japanese sensibilities, this comes heartily recommended.
Location
Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store, Main Building 4F, Furoshiki Salon
Event
FUROSHIKI Wrapping Studio 2016
Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store, Main Building 1F, Central Hall
Open
January 13-19, 2016