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The popularity of the "Wagasa" umbrella began from the EDO period, along with other cultural crafts from China. The umbrellas of "Janome" (umbrella in snake eye pattern) and "Bangasa" (plain oil paper umbrella) were commonly used in the general public and quickly became a daily good from the Showa period to the end of the World War II. Nowadays, "Wagasa" umbrellas are changing to become items of interest, props in a stage or dance performance, and items used in traditional ceremonies and tea courses. Moreover, it can be a great Japanese souvenir. Specifically, Wagasa umbrellas play a very important role in representing Japanese culture during events like tea ceremonies, Japanese dancing and Kabuki. We can say that Wagasa umbrellas are a symbol of Japanese culture.

A view of Wagasa drying under the sun (on the grounds of the Houkyou temple, a famous temple in Kyoto). A workshop for making Wagasa umbrella is launched also.	In the late EDO period, Hiyoshiya was established in Kyoto, near Gojyou Honkaku temple, as an umbrella store. In the 2nd generation, it was moved to Houkyou temple, a temple for Japanese princess who were studying Buddhist teachings. Now, Hiyoshiya has been continuing the production of Japanese umbrellas for 5 generations, over hundreds of years. The umbrellas of Hiyoshiya are called "Kyo-Wagasa". Hiyoshiya is the only manufacturer offering the highest grade of Wagasa, formal Nodate parasols (big parasols up to 150cm made for Japanese outdoor tea ceremony), to the head families of tea ceremony. The orthodox style of Hiyoshiya Nodate parasols are also used in the welcoming ceremony for VIP guests from various countries like Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana. Today, only a handful of the craftsmen of traditional Wagasa umbrellas remain. Even in Kyoto, Hiyoshiya is the sole manufacturer. Other than the production, we also provide the service of repairing the Japanese umbrellas for the Gion festival parade (one of the top 3 festivals in Japan) as well as for famous temples. Wagasa umbrellas are made from using the long, cylindrical structure of bamboo. A rod of bamboo is vertically cut in fine and even sticks, and properly arranged as the bone of the umbrella. The manufacturing process is sophisticated and the structure of the umbrella is precise. If there are any mistakes in the calculations, the umbrella cannot be opened or closed. It can be said that the high-level skill required to make Wagasa umbrellas has been well-polished by a long history.

This is a miniature of the Wagasa umbrella from our old-established store. Even in a compact size, the creation process is the exact same as the Wagasa umbrella. Give a Japanese mood to your room. Hiyoshiya also launches a workshop of making mini Wagasa.	The beautiful Wagasa umbrella is made by the harmony of the dyed bamboo bone and the high-class Echizen Japanese paper. It certainly matches well with Kimono, but also can be used as an item that shows off a Japanese feel for interior decorations.	The Nodate umbrella was developed under the background of "Wabi/Sabi" (the beauty to be found in poverty, simplicity and quiet) as a request from grand tea courses. The Nodate umbrellas of Hiyoshiya are widely used in shrines, temples, regional or traditional ceremonies, and as interior objects in shops with a Japanese taste.	The handling and care are the same as common western umbrellas, so no special maintenance is required. It is recommended for those who want to enjoy the Japanese style in a simple way.

Janome umbrella (small circle) 1.9 Shaku Size : (approx.) Diameter : 116cm, Height: 73cm, Color: Red/White Price:JPY 28,650 This is a very beautiful Wagasa umbrella which possesses the harmony of dyed bamboo bone and high-class Echizen Japanese paper. The handle has 2 metal fittings for 2-levels of opening adjustment for different strengths of rain and wind. The grip is wrapped in natural rattan and the hard tip is made of beautiful pearl. The patterns of Janome umbrella, are named "Nakairi" (Small circle) and "Sukeroku" (Big circle) to distinguish them from plain umbrellas.

Japanese paper parasol (Umbrella for dancing) Size : (approx.) Diameter : 82cm, Height: 81cm, Color:Flower whirl (Purple) Price:JPY 7,650～ Just like a blooming flower, the beautiful coloring matches well with Japanese clothes like kimono and yukata, but it also goes well with western casual wear. It can be also used for Japanese dancing.

Hand-picket Bangasa umbrella Size : (approx.) Diameter : 116cm, Height: 75cm, Color: White Price:JPY 25,650～ This Bangasa umbrella is made of the highest-class material and it shows the neat traditional design. Recently, it goes well with any fashion, Japanese or western. This Wagasa umbrella is very popular for men as well.

TypeA Vertical writing JPY2,000	TypeB Curveｄ writing JPY3,000	TypeC Writing visible when closed JPY1,500	TypeD Scattered writing JPY 6,000円	TypeE Family crest/Logo JPY3,000

Name imprinting service is available. Please refer to the image at the left and choose your favorite type. Please e-mail us for further inquiries. info_en@jcrafts.com Caution Up to 4-5 letters are accepted. General colors are available (black, red, silver, gold, etc).

The maintenance of Japanese umbrella	・ If the umbrella gets wet, please dry it in the shade. Remove all moisture before storage. ・ Please store the umbrella with a dehumidifying agent and a moth repellent, in a well ventilated place. ・ If the umbrella will not be used for a long time, please sometimes open it for ventilation.
Attention of usage	・ Bangasa umbrella and Janome umbrella, Janome umbrella (double layers) can be used in the rain. Please completely remove the moisture after usage. ・ Even Nodate parasols have oil coating, please do not use in the rain. ・ Please use the specific Nodate parasol stand for setting up the umbrella. Please do not use in the windy day because the umbrella may fall down and get damaged. ・ Because the umbrella has sharp tip and edge, please mind the surrounding when using.
About turning into yellow of Japanese umbrella	The Japanese umbrellas of Hiyoshiya have the coating of flaxseed oil for water-proof. The characteristic of flaxseed oil will make the Japanese paper turning into yellow over time. This is call "Kare" in Japanese and the Japanese paper becomes more durable. Please do not worry for the change of color. Especially Yellow Bangasa is widely being loved.