{"id":355,"date":"2023-11-15T16:37:21","date_gmt":"2023-11-15T07:37:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/higojournal.com\/en\/?p=355"},"modified":"2023-11-15T16:37:21","modified_gmt":"2023-11-15T07:37:21","slug":"explore-the-world-of-tenugui-at-wazakka-ikka-a-specialty-store-that-sells-more-than-1000-different-kinds-of-tenugui","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/higojournal.com\/en\/archives\/explore-the-world-of-tenugui-at-wazakka-ikka-a-specialty-store-that-sells-more-than-1000-different-kinds-of-tenugui.html","title":{"rendered":"Explore The World Of Tenugui At “Wazakka Ikka,” A Specialty Store That Sells More Than 1,000 Different Kinds Of Tenugui!"},"content":{"rendered":"

We live in a very convenient world where various things and new systems are being developed one after another.<\/span><\/p>\n

On the other hand, there is also a renewed appreciation for traditional Japanese items, some of which have stood the test of time and may, in fact, offer significant value even today.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Let’s delve into the world of tenugui, or traditional Japanese hand towels, rumored to be stylish, handy and eco-friendly.<\/span><\/p>\n

“Wazakka Ikka” In Higashi-ku, Kumamoto City<\/b><\/h2>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

I came here because I heard there was a “tenugui specialty store” in a residential area of<\/span> Hanadate, Higashi-ku.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Wandering about, I finally stumbled upon a sign pointing the way, just behind the Sunny Sakuragi Store.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>The entrance is here, and there’s parking available for those driving.<\/span><\/p>\n

Now let’s go inside the store!<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>I was met with an unexpected array of tenugui, as far as the eye could see.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Founded by a passionate tenugui enthusiast, this shop, with its staggering variety, attracts fans nationwide.<\/span><\/p>\n

Over 1,000 Varieties!?<\/b><\/h2>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Almost every tenugui on display sported a different design.<\/span> On inquiring, I was told there were indeed over 1,000 unique designs.<\/span><\/p>\n

The collection primarily features tenugui from specialist manufacturers as well as those hand-dyed by artisans.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>While most imagine traditional Japanese designs when thinking of tenugui, there were also colorful modern prints, floral patterns, and super cute designs.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>There were even designs featuring musical instruments like violins and trumpets!<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Other designs included food motifs, animals, and just about any theme you can imagine.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>With over 1,000 varieties, there’s bound to be one that strikes your fancy.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Seasonal designs are also in stock. On my visit, there were tenugui with Christmas and Chinese zodiac-inspired motifs, perfect for the New Year.<\/span><\/p>\n

But… How Exactly Should One Use a Tenugui?<\/b><\/h2>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Many of us hear about tenugui but rarely get the chance to use one.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>According to the shop owner, “Tenugui are a culmination of the wisdom of our ancestors. They’re not just convenient; each tenugui is a collaboration of many hands, making them quite special. Many tenugui masters understand and appreciate this depth.”<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0While they’re primarily used to wipe hands, they can be framed as art, tucked into one’s collar when wearing a kimono, and have various other applications.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0They dry faster than regular towels and require less water to wash, making them eco-friendly. They proved invaluable during times of disaster when water was scarce, such after an earthquake.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span>Prices range from 1,000 to 1,500 yen, making them popular choices for gifts or return presents for celebratory occasions.<\/span><\/p>\n

There are many patterns to choose from, so it would be nice to select one that suits the person’s character!<\/span><\/p>\n

I was also shown a video of the dyeing process by a craftsman.<\/span> It deepened my appreciation for the craft.<\/span><\/p>\n

Why<\/span> not immerse yourself in the nostalgic “world of tenugui” in Higashi-ku?<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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