Tokyo Umbrellas: A Traditional Craft of Tokyo

Traditional techniques passed down through the generations

On March 22, 2018, the "Tokyo Umbrella" was designated as a traditional craft of Tokyo.

Western-style umbrellas were first introduced from the West in the late Edo period, and attracted attention when they were brought over by Perry when he arrived in Japan in 1854. They gradually became more widely used.

In the early Meiji period, umbrellas were seen as luxury items and were often worn with kimonos in Japan, and photographs from that time still show this. Around this time, umbrella manufacturing companies were organized in what is now Sumida Ward, with Tokyo craftsmen starting full-scale production of umbrellas, in an attempt to produce umbrellas themselves, which were a symbol of aspiration.

The completed "Tokyo Umbrella" was created not only by umbrella craftsmen, but also by frame makers, handle makers, and fabric makers who all honed their skills without compromise. It is a masterpiece that pursues a beautiful and balanced form, incorporates Tokyo's unique sewing techniques, which require high skill, and is sprinkled with careful consideration for the users.

Only umbrellas that pass on the traditional techniques of "Tokyo Umbrellas" and use materials from umbrellas that are more than 100 years old and meet strict standards are selected as traditional crafts of Tokyo.

The following products from Komiya Shoten have been certified as "traditional crafts" by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

"Pure Silk Urashima"


We have recreated a Western-style umbrella from over 100 years ago using pure silk fabric woven on a narrow loom in Yamanashi, with a plain front and striped back.
This umbrella is inlaid with techniques inherited from traditional craftsmen in every detail, such as its beautiful umbrella shape, beautiful lathe winding and perforations, and ease of opening and closing designed with the user in mind.

65cm 8 ribs / 100,000 yen (excluding tax)

55cm 8 ribs / 80,000 yen (excluding tax)