Summer in Japan is a scorcher. Since we’re trying to avoid activities in enclosed spaces, we’re getting to appreciate the great outdoors, whether that’s venturing out to Okutama or indulging in an icy kakigori. It’s important to bring along heat protection, too, and this means sunscreen, a hat and a good old fashioned Japanese fan.
Known as uchiwa, these paper fans traditionally have ukiyo-e images printed on them. Now, Isshindo, a Japanese company specialising in traditional gifts with a contemporary spin, is releasing a special Summer 2020 lineup of its Hidari Uchiwa fans. Instead of idyllic images of Tokyo, these fans have modern designs for a whole new level of cool.
Hidari Uchiwa’s modern designs stray away from Edo-era Japan and instead showcase designs like gold flamingos on neon pink backgrounds, colourful mushrooms and even your favourite cartoon characters. In this new range of fans, you’ll find Japanese and international animated friends like Doraemon, Snoopy and Miffy.
The new collection also marks the first time Hidari Uchiwa has partnered with retro rock bands and movies. Showcase your love of The Beatles or the original summer blockbuster, ‘Jaws’, while staying cool and looking cooler. The fans are handmade with Yuzen washi paper dyed in Kyoto.
The new designs are gradually being released on the Hidari Uchiwa online store. They should also be coming soon to selected Loft and Tokyu Hands shops, along with the official Isshindo Honkan store at Tokyo Skytree. The small oval-shaped fans start at ¥950 while the larger ones are ¥1,600.
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