[Kyoto] Kyo-Sensu Cherry Blossom Pattern | A Handcrafted Piece by Artisans You'll Want to Choose for a Summer Gift
The feeling of holding a folding fan is a little different from that of a round fan. It creates that light, soft breeze born from the combination of ribs and paper. A Kyo-Sensu (Kyoto folding fan) born in Kyoto goes through nearly 30 processes before completion, with specialized artisans responsible for each step. Each of these accumulated efforts leads to a level of perfection that makes you want to own one.
For those looking for a Kyo-Sensu as a summer gift or a yukata accessory, or for those who are about to hold an authentic folding fan for daily use for the first time, this time I will introduce a domestically produced, artisan-made piece that can be purchased on Amazon.
※This article contains affiliate links using the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase through these links, the author will receive a certain commission, but this will not affect the selection or evaluation of the products in any way.
Product introduced this time: Hasegawa Kyo-Sensu Cherry Blossom Pattern Pink Karaki-Choji Carving Double-sided Pattern Kyoto Artisan Handcrafted with Fan Bag and Gift Box (¥4,980)
The Background of Kyo-Sensu
The prototype of the folding fan dates back to the 'Hi-ogi' (cypress fan) of the Nara period, and it was in Kyoto during the Heian period that it developed into the 'paper folding fan' that combines paper and bamboo ribs. Cultivated in a way inseparable from the culture of the nobility and samurai, the fan was a prop for rituals and a symbol of status. Records of it as an export product to overseas countries remain from the Muromachi period.
During the Edo period, it spread among the common people and became established as a practical item to ward off the summer heat. As a symbol of 'iki' (chic) to match yukata and kimonos, production flourished in various regions. Among them, Kyoto maintained its exceptional status as the highest quality production area.
In 1977 (Showa 52), 'Kyo-Sensu' was designated as a national traditional craft by the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry. Currently, the name 'Kyo-Sensu' is protected as a regional collective trademark held by the Kyoto Fan and Round Fan Commerce and Industry Cooperative. Using domestic bamboo for the fan ribs and tailoring the paper in Kyoto are the conditions for using this name.
As another textile craft from Kyoto, please also take a look at Nishijin Fukusa Fukushodo's Houndstooth (Kyoto Nishijin).
Artisan Techniques: What is Karaki-Choji Carving?
The processes involved in completing one Kyo-Sensu are broadly divided into specialized roles: 'rib maker,' 'paper maker,' 'artist,' and 'tailor (finisher).' It starts with splitting bamboo to make the ribs, processing Japanese paper to finish the fan paper, painting the design, and finally carefully combining the ribs and paper. The techniques polished by each artisan over many years are condensed into one piece.
The 'Karaki-Choji carving' used in this Hasegawa Kyo-Sensu cherry blossom pattern is a carving process applied to the tips of the outer ribs. By carving, the tips of the outer ribs take on a three-dimensional impression, and the beauty when closed is greatly increased. It is a part that also relates to the solid presence when held in the hand, and it is a process that enhances both decoration and practicality.
The paper is a 'double-sided pattern' specification with cherry blossom patterns on both the front and back. Designed so that the pattern looks good whether opened or closed, it can be used in any situation. The length is relatively compact at about 19.5cm, making it easy to fit in a bag and not getting in the way even when tucked into an obi. A fan bag and a gift box are included, so it can be used as is for a gift.
Reason for choosing this product
There are many fans on Amazon that claim to be 'handcrafted by Kyoto artisans,' but surprisingly few clearly state the basis for their production area and manufacturing method. The Hasegawa Kyo-Sensu series clearly states that the fan ribs are manufactured with domestic bamboo and the tailoring is done in Kyoto, officially meeting the regional collective trademark conditions for 'Kyo-Sensu'.
The rating on Amazon is 4.1 stars (36 reviews). Many purchase reviews report that it was given as a gift, and the reactions of the recipients include comments such as 'it was elegant and appreciated' and 'it looks authentic.' The price range is ¥4,980, and it is evaluated for its good balance in that you can get the quality of an authentic Kyo-Sensu for under 5,000 yen.
Since colors are available in multiple variations in addition to pink, you can choose according to the recipient's preference. While the cherry blossom design has an image of being only for early spring, the cherry blossom pattern is an auspicious pattern used all year round and can be carried regardless of the season.
Hasegawa Kyoto Folding Fan Cherry Blossom Pattern Pink Karaki Clove Carving (¥4,980)——Main product. Comes with a decorative box and fan sleeve.
Hasegawa Flowing Cherry Blossom Silk Folding Fan in Paulownia Box (¥7,700)——Premium version with silk fabric. 4.4 stars (6 reviews), comes in a paulownia box.
Occasions to use this
The most intuitive scenario is pairing it with a yukata. When heading to fireworks festivals, summer festivals, or Bon dances, simply tucking a Kyoto folding fan into your obi adds depth to your outfit. Enjoying the color coordination between the obi and the fan is one of the true pleasures of kimono culture.
During the mid-year gift-giving season (June to August), there is demand for it as a practical summer gift. Since it comes in a decorative box with a fan sleeve, it is packaged and ready to be gifted as-is. It is also a classic choice for Respect for the Aged Day gifts for seniors or as a souvenir for foreign acquaintances interested in Japanese culture.
Kyoto folding fans are surprisingly practical for daily use as well. Even in "Cool Biz" environments where air conditioning is set to a higher temperature, having a fan to create your own breeze helps you stay comfortable. The aspect of it being an energy-saving tool that requires no electricity has been re-evaluated in recent years. If you choose a compact size, it is easy to keep in your bag and take out while commuting or outdoors.
For those who enjoy wearing kimonos or yukatas as everyday attire, having multiple fans to switch between depending on the occasion or mood is also an option. The cherry blossom pattern is a design that can be used from early spring to early autumn, making it a safe choice for your first Kyoto folding fan.
Care and tips for long-term use
Although folding fans may look sturdy at first glance, the joints between the ribs and the paper are delicate. The basic way to open one is to hold the outer ribs and slide them sideways to spread it open slowly. Trying to open it all at once can cause the ribs to misalign or damage the paper. When closing, do the same by slowly folding it back together.
After use, store it in its fan sleeve to keep its shape. Since they are vulnerable to strong sunlight and rain, be careful when using them outdoors for long periods. If it gets sweaty, simply wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth; avoid washing with water as this can cause the paper to warp.
Ideal storage is in a place away from high temperatures and humidity; keeping it in a paulownia or paper box helps protect it from moisture. This helps prevent the ribs from warping and the paper from yellowing, making it a daily item that can last for many years if handled with care.
Other Kyoto and textile masterpieces to consider
In addition to Kyoto folding fans, Kyoto-made small accessories and textile crafts include many items that make excellent gifts. Many people choose items made with Nishijin-ori as they are also textile products from Kyoto, often pairing them with a fan.
If you would like to see crafts from other regions in the textile genre, please refer to the following articles as well.
Nishijin-ori Tie The Navy (Kyoto Nishijin)——Kyoto textile technology applied to a necktie. As a men's gift.
Arimatsu Shibori Parasol (Arimatsu, Aichi)——A piece that applies tie-dyeing techniques to a modern parasol.
Summary
Hasegawa's Kyoto folding fan with cherry blossom pattern is an authentic piece featuring Karaki clove-carved outer ribs and double-sided patterned paper crafted by Kyoto artisans, yet it remains at an accessible price point of ¥4,980. It is worth considering as a summer gift, a daily heat-relief tool, or as your first piece to incorporate Japanese accessories into your life.
If you found this article helpful, please follow us. Every week, we introduce traditional Japanese crafts from the perspective of their production regions and artisans.
*This article contains affiliate links using the Amazon Associates Program. If you make a purchase through these links, the author will receive a certain commission, but this does not affect the selection or evaluation of the products in any way.