Japanese Sun Umbrellas

Japanese Parasols 日傘

Japanese parasol

Traditional Japanese umbrellas were used to fight off the brutal heat of a Japanese summer. (Ironically, they are making a comeback now. Though less artistic, the modern version of a "hi gasa" [sun umbrella] is very popular among young women worried more about the detrimental effects of the sun on their lovely skin.) Made of washi, Japanese paper, and sturdy bamboo, the umbrellas were strong and flexible and effective.

Umbrellas like the one pictured at right can however still be seen, particularly during special occasions such as festivals. And, of course, they are still used by geisha.

These parasols also make wonderful decorative items. Many Japanese now use them at home to liven up a room.

Buy Japanese parasols online

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Japanese Akari Lampshades

Akari

Japanese akari lampshades are made in the studio of Maeda-sensei.

He uses a simple frame and beautiful Japanese paper (washi) to create patterns of light that will enhance any room.

From small shades that sit on the floor or can be hung on a wall, to larger artistic models that amply fill a space.

Takehiro Maeda is a Japanese craftsman who follows the way of the "light," or akari. He apprenticed for four years in Kyoto's weaving district, Nishijin, and now has his own studio.

The lamps are both sturdy and evanescent.

Buy akari made in Japan

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Halloween Masks

Halloween Masks

Japanese traditional masks are ideal for Halloween. Japanese mask-making has a long history and the masks are associated with the ancient legends and myths of the Japanese people. Masks have been used in Japan for rituals, initiation rites and dance performances since as long ago as the Jomon Period (10,000 BC-300BC).

Traditional paper Japanese mask

Elaborate masks are also a part of traditional Japanese dramas and dance such as: Noh, Gigaku, Kyogen and Kagura.

Japanese masks are a mixture of both animal and human faces. As well as a form of disguise, the wearer of a mask takes on the spiritual force of the person or animal represented by the mask.

GoodsFromJapan's hand-crafted papier mache masks include tengu - the mischievous, sexually-suggestive, long-nosed forest spirit, the crafty fox, kitsune, otafuku - the female spirit of joy and happiness and the grotesque hyotoku - the human bellows (seen above).

Japanese Halloween Masks

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Paper Lanterns From Japan

Paper Lanterns From Japan

Beautiful lanterns available online at GoodsFromJapan.com.

Paper lanterns have been used for centuries in Japan, and continue to be used to this day in daily life. At stores and restaurants, during flea markets and festivals, they are a common and beautiful feature of life in Japan.

Paper Lanterns selection from Japan.

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