This Kyoto folding fan (Kyo-sensu) was created through a collaboration between Hakuchikudo, a traditional fan maker in Kyoto, and Kamiya Mingei-ten, a Hyogo-based artisan specializing in straw marquetry. The guard ribs are decorated with straw marquetry whose sheen changes depending on the angle of light, expressing three auspicious traditional patterns: Ichimatsu (checkered pattern), Sayagata, and Asanoha (hemp leaf motif). The fan surface uses paper dyed with kakishibu (persimmon tannin), offering natural insect-repellent, antibacterial, and deodorizing properties, along with a distinctive glossy finish. This fan represents a new expression of Kyo-sensu, born from the collaboration between two Japanese traditional crafts: Kyoto folding fans and straw marquetry.

Hakuchikudo, founded in 1718 (Kyoho 3) in Kyoto, is a long-established maker of Kyo-sensu. For more than 300 years, the company has preserved the tradition of Kyoto fans while incorporating the sensibilities of each era, continuing to create pieces for people living in the present day. Kyo-sensu are produced through a traditional division-of-labor system, and Hakuchikudo collaborates with numerous craftsmen to carefully produce each fan domestically—from the ribs and paper to the final finishing. Their products range from formal ceremonial fans and dance fans to summer fans, featuring designs from classical motifs to contemporary patterns. Built upon centuries of craftsmanship and refined aesthetics, Hakuchikudo has long grown alongside the cultural heritage of Kyoto as a dedicated fan specialist.

Kyo-sensu (Kyoto folding fan): Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

These fans are produced domestically, mainly in Kyoto and Shiga, including the fan surface, ribs, and finishing. The process involves approximately 88 steps—such as rib making, paper preparation, painting, and assembly—many of which are completed by hand. With a history of over 1,200 years, Kyo-sensu carry forward traditional aesthetics while bringing coolness and elegance to modern life.

Straw Marquetry: Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture

Kinosaki straw marquetry is a traditional craft with a history of about 300 years, originating in the mid-Edo period as souvenirs from Kinosaki Onsen. Dyed barley straw is carefully applied piece by piece to create a refined sheen that changes with the viewing angle. From cultivation to finishing, the process is carried out by hand. Today, it is designated as a Hyogo Prefecture Traditional Craft and an Intangible Cultural Property of Toyooka City.

Kyoto Folding Fan "Ouka (Cherry Blossoms)"

On the fan surface, cherry blossoms are carefully hand-painted one by one by a skilled Uwae artisan on softly textured washi paper, creating a gentle warmth and a quiet yet refined presence through the delicate branches and petals. A pearl-brush finishing technique adds a subtle sheen, lending the fan an elegant glow.

The guard ribs are adorned with a traditional Japanese raden (mother-of-pearl inlay) in an ichimatsu checkered pattern. Together with the cherry blossom motif on the fan surface, this auspicious design symbolizes a celebratory new beginning and wishes for future prosperity.

With the refined craftsmanship unique to Kyoto folding fans and the warmth of hand-painted artistry, this piece embodies the understated elegance of Japanese aesthetics.

This fan is available exclusively through the Japan Mastery Collection (JMC).