The 160-Year Legacy of Hiyoshiya’s Wagasa

For over 160 years, Hiyoshiya has been dedicated to preserving the art of Kyo-wagasa, beautifully crafted traditional Japanese umbrellas. Specializing in different styles, like Janome-gasa and Ban-gassa, Hiyoshiya’s expertise extends beyond crafting pieces to also restoring wagasa used in temples, shrines, and ceremonies across Japan. While deeply rooted in tradition, Hiyoshiya innovates through its interior design and lighting to blend timeless craftsmanship with modern usage. Sporting a presence in over 15 countries, they offer design consulting, brand development, and support for regional businesses that are looking to expand globally. They stand by the philosophy that “Traditional is Continuing Innovation,” through their strong commitment to sustainability and revitalization of local industries. Join us as we interview Hiyoshiya and explore how they balance heritage with modernity and their vision for the future of traditional crafts.

Can you please introduce yourself?

It’s nice to meet you. My name is Katsuhiro Onodera, and I work for Hiyoshiya Co. Hiyoshiya was established in 1861 (the first year of the Bunkyu era), and is a long-established company that has been making Kyoto-style Japanese umbrellas for over 160 years. I am currently in charge of sales and experiences at Hiyoshiya, and I take orders for the production and repair of traditional Japanese umbrellas, as well as for the interior lighting “Kotori” that also utilizes Japanese umbrella technology. In order to convey the culture of Japanese umbrellas to as many people as possible, we are also focusing on having exhibitions and workshops both in Japan and overseas.

Hiyoshiya has been crafting Kyo-wagasa for over 160 years! Can you share the story behind the founding of Hiyoshiya and how it has evolved over the years?

As mentioned above, Hiyoshiya began manufacturing Japanese-style paper umbrellas in Kyoto in 1861, which was also the first year of the Bunkyu era. Kyoto has long been a place where temples, shrines, and the culture of geisha and maiko flourished, and the high demand for Japanese-style paper umbrellas led to the development of our store,  Hiyoshiya. While preserving the traditional techniques of Japanese-style paper umbrellas, the company has also developed products that meet the needs of the times.

In recent years, the company has also started to develop lighting and interior products that apply the technology of Japanese umbrellas, and these have received high praise both in Japan and overseas. In particular, the “Kotori” series of lighting products, which make use of the structural beauty of the framework of Japanese umbrellas, have been adopted by many hotels and commercial facilities.

There are so many different types of wagasa to choose from! What are some of the differences between the various types of wagasa, such as Ban-gasa, Janome-gasa and Nodate-gasa?

The Bangasa is a typical Japanese umbrella, with bamboo ribs, handle and a fabric covering made from traditional Japanese paper. It is simple in design and has been used mainly as an umbrella for the common people.

On the other hand, the Janome umbrellas are more delicate than the bangasa, and many of them have beautiful patterns on the inner bamboo ribs. Geisha and maiko tend to use them, giving them a more glamorous impression.

The Nodate umbrellas are larger in size, typically being used for outdoor tea ceremonies, hence the name “nodate,” which means tea ceremony in Japanese. They are also commonly used at events at temples, shrines, and other religious buildings.

What are the key materials used in crafting a traditional wagasa? What are some of the most intricate or challenging aspects of wagasa craftsmanship?

The main materials used in Japanese umbrellas are bamboo (for the frame), Japanese paper (for the fabric) and oil (for waterproofing). The bamboo used is pliable and strong, and the Japanese paper is coated with linseed oil, making it water-repellent.

The most difficult part of making a Japanese umbrella varies depending on the artisan, but it is commonly believed to be the step known as “makuwari.” This is the process of evenly opening the bamboo ribs and shaping the umbrella, and it requires good experience from the artisan. The process of “shikazuke” after the Japanese paper has been attached is also important, as it is the process of evenly folding the Japanese paper on the body part and shaping the Japanese umbrella when it is closed. Without this process, the Japanese paper, and thus the umbrella, would be unable to open and close. Even for skilled artisans, it is difficult to make it close beautifully because each umbrella has its own personality.

Hiyoshiya provides custom orders and repair services through its website. Could you tell us more about the most popular custom requests and what the repair process typically involves?

The most popular custom orders are for Japanese umbrellas with original designs or with the customer’s name on them. It is also possible to add a logo for companies or events, or to have an original Japanese pattern design applied. 

For repairs, we can replace the Japanese paper, or we can take the umbrella apart from the frame, repair the bamboo frame, and then reassemble and re-paper the umbrella. The repair process begins with checking the condition of the umbrella and presenting an estimate to the customer. After that, we carry out the necessary repairs and finish the job. Even old Japanese umbrellas can be repaired and used for a long time.

Hiyoshiya Interior has introduced wagasa-inspired lighting and interior decor! What inspired the idea to incorporate traditional craftsmanship into modern living spaces?

The idea came about when I thought about how I could make use of the Japanese umbrella craft in a new way to pass it on to the next generation. Although demand for traditional crafts often declines over time, the beauty and functionality of Japanese umbrellas are attracting attention as a design that blends in well with modern spaces. This can be seen in the many lighting and interior products that make use of these qualities.

In particular, the pendant lights in the “Kotori” series are one of the representative products that make use of the structure of Japanese umbrellas while also having a modern design. They have been adopted by many hotels and restaurants in Japan and overseas, and are supported by many people.

What kind of workshop experiences does Hyoshiya offer, and what can participants expect to learn about the art of crafting traditional wagasa?

Hiyoshiya offers a “mini Japanese umbrella making experience.” Participants can make their own original mini Japanese umbrella by attaching Japanese paper to the frame of a small Japanese umbrella. While experiencing some of the traditional techniques, you will get to learn about the depth of Japanese craft.

We also offer a “Mini Kotoshi Experience” where you can make a small table lamp. While making it, you can learn about the structure of Japanese umbrellas and Kotoshi. You can take the mini Japanese umbrella and lamp that you made home with you on the same day, making for perfect souvenirs.

Hiyoshiya has been featured in various magazines and newspapers! Can you share some memorable media moments or coverage that you’re particularly proud of?

It was very impressive that Hiyoshiya’s lighting was introduced at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and at Paris Design Week. In Japan, our work was featured in the Mainichi Shimbun, Casa BRUTUS and many other media outlets, providing an opportunity to widely communicate the appeal of Japanese umbrellas across the world.

Anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Japanese umbrellas are beautiful, everyday items that embody traditional Japanese technology. Hiyoshiya continues to work to preserve tradition while also connecting the technology of Japanese umbrellas to the future in new forms. If you are interested in Japanese umbrellas or the concept of “tradition as a series of innovations,” please take a look at Hiyoshiya’s workshop and website!

Thank you so much for taking the time to interview with us! We truly appreciate your allowing us to share your love and passion for the traditional Japanese crafts of wagasa with all of our readers!

Hiyoshiya: https://wagasa.com/en

Hiyoshiya Interior: ​​https://interior.wagasa.com/en

Instagram: instagram.com/hiyoshiya_kyoto

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hiyoshiya.co.jp

Twitter: https://x.com/Hiyoshiya_

Featured Photo Credit: Hiyoshiya

There’s truly no end to the traditional, enchanting side of Kyoto. To try hands-on workshops and immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture, make sure to contact our Travel Specialists to tailor your personalized Kyoto itinerary!