Japon Uchiwa / Wayfaring-Man

This Hinaga Uchiwa is made with traditional techniques that have been preserved for more than 100 years. This fan with the picture of the 53 Stages of the Tokaido Highway in Yokkaichi, Japan.
You can use it on a hot day or display it in your room as an interior decoration. It will become a fashionable accent if you carry it with you when you go out. Why don't you pick up a traditional Japanese fan and try it for yourself?

Length：42.5cm
Width：29cm
Gross weight：210g

Paper
Bamboo

INATOH

"As long as we are in business, don't let the Hinaga fans light go out."

When I was young, I saw the hard work of my predecessors in fan making and thought that it would be easier to make money by purchasing and selling the finished uchiwa fans. However, when my predecessor passed away and I took over, I realized that if I stopped making uchiwa, Hinaga fans would cease to exist. Once it ceased, its history would stop there. I suddelny realized the importance of this.

ARTISAN STORY

Inatoh
The craftsman is the fourth generation of Inatoh, which began manufacturing Hinaga fans in Mie Prefecture in 1881. He wants to not only protect the family business passed down from his predecessors, but also wants to develop products that appeal to today's consumers, such as fragrant Uchiwa fans.

ACHIEVEMENTS

・Exhibited at the Milano International Expo
・Craft Renaissance Project Future Tradition WAO

HINAGA UCHIWA / HINAGA FANS

About 300 years ago / 1700s / Edo Period (1603–1868)

Hinaga fans developed in Edo-period Yokkaichi, where the Tokaido road met routes leading toward the Ise pilgrimage. They became popular souvenirs for travelers. Their round-handle structure is made by splitting the upper part of a single bamboo culm into many ribs while leaving the handle intact.

In Japan, Hinaga fans were counted with Nagamochi sweets and Hinaga tabi socks among the famous products of the old post town. Contemporary makers have introduced designs using Ise katagami cutwork, scented fans and other new ideas.

Because one piece of bamboo continues from handle into the fan ribs, the frame is not assembled from separate parts. This gives strength while retaining natural flexibility, creating a soft flow of air. The object is an elegant example of turning almost one whole plant directly into a functional tool.

Individual Differences

As each piece is individually handcrafted, slight variations in color, pattern, shape, and texture may occur. These subtle differences are a natural characteristic of handcrafted works, making each piece truly unique. We hope you will enjoy these individual variations as part of the beauty and character of Japanese craftsmanship.

Production Time

If an item is not currently in stock, it may be made to order by the artisan. As each piece is carefully handcrafted, production may take several months depending on the item and the artisan's schedule. We appreciate your patience and understanding.