In the age of single-use plastics and convenience packaging, an ancient Japanese tradition has become increasingly important: furoshiki. It is not only an art of wrapping, but also the name for a versatile square cloth that comes with many layers of history, artistry, and cultural meaning that continue to resonate today.
As we want to honour the tradition of the furoshiki, in this blog post we want to dive deeper into its history and the cultural roots it has in Japan. Keep reading to learn more!
What Is Furoshiki?
The furoshiki is a square piece of cloth used for wrapping and carrying objects. Traditionally, furoshiki are made from cotton or silk, like most of our products, but later also synthetic fibres. The name "furoshiki" combines two words: furo (bath) and shiki (spread). The name reflects the traditional use of the cloth in bathhouses, although it has a much more versatile use today.
From Bathhouses to Everyday Life
The story of furoshiki begins in the Nara period (710-794) when cloth wrapping was used to protect valuable items such as treasures and ceremonial objects. By the Muromachi period (1336-1573), bathhouses had become increasingly popular. To bundle their clothes during their bath time, the patrons used decorated cloths. These wraps were often adorned with family crests and thus represented status symbols, while also serving as identifiers. During this era, the term furoshiki originated and became more common.
Over time, the furoshiki moved beyond bathhouses. For instance, during the Edo period (1603-1868), the cloth become a common means for transporting goods and offering presents. It became an indispensable part of everyday life due to its adaptability that allowed wrapping objects of different shapes and sizes with a simple knot.
Aesthetics and Symbolism
Furoshiki are not just super practical, but also deeply tied to Japanese aesthetics. Patterns are often drawn from nature - such as plum blossoms, cranes, or waves - and carry auspicious meanings. For instance, pine and bamboo signify longevity, while cranes symbolise good fortune and fidelity.
The art of wrapping then became a reflection of care and respect for others. To present a gift wrapped in furoshiki communicates thoughtfulness, as the cloth serves as both protection and a gesture of beauty. In some cases, the furoshiki is given along the gift, extending its life as a useful and cherished object.
Decline and Rediscovery
With the rise of Western-style packaging and plastic bags in the postwar era, furoshiki gradually declined in everyday use. By the late 20th century, it has become more of an old-fashioned custom.
In the 2000s, with growing environmental consciousness, the furoshiki had a revival. Campaigns by Japan's Ministry of the Environment promoted furoshiki as an eco-friendly alternative to disposable bags and designers reimagined the cloth with modern patterns and fabrics, helping it appeal to new generations.
Furoshiki Today: Tradition Meets Sustainability
In our modern world, furoshiki have become increasingly important to eco-conscious people all over the globe. It embodies a balance of tradition and modern sensibilities. Furoshiki can be used for carrying groceries, wrapping gifts, and even as fashion accessories, such as scarves, bags, or wall hangings.
The resurgence of the furoshiki reflects not only nostalgia for cultural heritage but also a forward-looking approach to sustainability.
More Than Just A Cloth
Furoshiki is more than just a square piece of cloth. It is a living tradition, a symbol of respect for nature, and a reminder of the Japanese ability to weave practicality and artistry into daily life. Whether passed down as a family heirloom or picked up as a stylish eco-friendly alternative, the furoshiki continues to wrap together history, culture, and innovation.
In this modern revival, we want to show how the furoshiki can be adapted to address today's challenges, especially considering waste, environmental degradation, and fast consumption. As a brand, it is important that we honour the ancient roots of furoshiki by advocating wrapping with care. Your gift is more than just what's inside - the presentation matters and as such, the wrap is an extension of respect and mindfulness.