Tenugui comes from the word “Ta-Nogohi” which was part of the vocabulary during the Heian Era (794 to 1185). Based on this, Tenugui refers to wiping, or the act of wiping.  It was used in public baths and became so popular that new methods of dyeing were invented just for the Tenugui.

During the Showa Era (1926 to 1989), modern dyeing technology created a renewed interest in the cloth. This is because new colors were introduced that were vibrant and rich. Aside from this, designs using stencils were adapted on the cloth. These wash cloths were also used as a form of business cards and gift item.

Today, it is more known as a piece of cloth or towel. There is an existing project to keep this traditional cloth very much a part of Japanese culture. It tries to instill the importance of maintaining a close tie with tradition, instead of adopting all new technology. This last dyeing process is something many Japanese from the older generation consider as “the last stand.” The Japanese youth tend to disregard tradition and think of objects like the Tenugui as old-fashion and useless.

The Tenugui is just one of the Japanese traditions that are threatened to disappear because of technology. It is not longer considered a fashion accessory. Instead, it has become part of Japanese old school and costume. One sport that has continued to use this face cloth for their sport is Japanese fencing or Kendo. You will see those in the art of Kendo wipe their face and hands often, using the Tenugui.

Over the years, the Tenugui has adapted to the era. During the EDO Period, it came from cotton rolls and were fairly large in size. This changed to other materials like silk or combination of different fabrics. The weave was also significant in determining use. Fine weave meant that the Tenugui was for creating new craft, while the loose weaves was used as fabric for towels.

Traditional Japanese crafts come in a variety of decorative forms. Many of these crafts have dated back to the start of the century when culture was cultivated into the lives of the people. Beginning of civilization in Japan has produced some significant traditional Japanese crafts that are carried on to the future generation till date. Crafts and art may not be taken as seriously as it was back in the days but it is still given priority to convey culture and tradition to those whom are unaware of it. Dating from the medieval period, arts and crafts of the Japanese culture are a crucial instrument in their daily lives.

Very few crafts have actually survived the modernized fads. Temari is one of those few unique crafts that still condone high popularity among the people. A form of folk art that has been said to be of Chinese origin, Temari was brought to Japan in the 16th century and made popular among children. Usually it is crafted by the womenfolk for their young’s to play with.

The materials used to construct the ball was said to be from worn out old clothes such as kimonos. Fabric is bundled together in the form of the ball which is then draped with many cloth strips that bind the materials together, forming a ball. The meticulous preparation is obvious through firmly stitched balls that are tightly bound which cause it to bounce.

The evolution of the Temari balls from being just a craft to art was due to the decorative design made onto the balls. Elaborate and finicky, the embroidery designs made the balls into an art from regular toys. The craft meant for aristocracy and noble class, the objects have become a symbol of giving that has progressed into a prized gifts symbolizing valued bond. In Japan, it’s customary for the daughter to receive a Temari ball from her mother on New Year’s Day as a gift signifying affection.

The balls are said to bring luck and fortune to a person it’s gifted to. Various colours are used to show the intricate weaving of the silk fabrics in the Temari ball. Hard work fed into the creation of the balls is said to reflect the crafts makers’ spirit.

History of Fan (Sensu)

The origin of the Sensu dates back to the Heian period (794~1185). First in Japan,these folding fans were then exported to China and finally to Europe via India. The usage of a fan was considered highly fashionable during the reign of French monarch Louis XIV (1638-1715). The sensu later found its way back to Japan, leading to the birth of the silk fan.

Varieties of Sensu

A variety of fans exist for various occasions; ceremonies, performance, warfare and also simply as decoration.

There are many kinds of Fan’s for different occasions: ceremonies, entertainment, also for decorating. At Hizen-ya only the Natsu Sensu(Summer Fan) are available.

Natsu Sensu (Summer Fan)

Generally speaking, sensu for men are around 23cm long when folded, for woman they are usually about 20cm. The summer sensu itself has a number of different styles. Some are for daily use for keeping yourself cool in the hot and humid Japanese summer, as well as those intended for use at more formal events. The spine of the fan is built in a plectrum shape, and silk is used more often than washi (Japanese paper) though its not uncommon to see sensu made of both silk and washi paper.

Interesting Cultural Uses of The Sensu

When meeting someone, it shows your sense of humility to hold a closed sensu in front of yourself pointing downwards.

When two people agreed to be married, both of their families would exchange sensu before any betrothal gifts where passed on.  Usually a white sensu for the groom and a silver or gold for the wife, the traditional purpose was to give each other a sensu they used everyday, into which their heart and soul had been put.  This custom began in the Heian period. Back in the Heian period where the tradition originated, the sensu used by the bride was made from real silver or gold leaf paper, said to protect her from bad luck and to bring happiness.

Sensu fans also found their way on stage, in noh plays. They are most commonly used by placing them in front of the koken (stage hands) and/or the jiutai (chorus) they can be seen on stage but are not included in the story. The fans “protect” them so that the actors do not react to their presence on stage.