{"id":6718,"date":"2025-10-26T10:53:30","date_gmt":"2025-10-26T01:53:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/?p=6718"},"modified":"2025-10-26T10:53:30","modified_gmt":"2025-10-26T01:53:30","slug":"marugame-uchiwa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/","title":{"rendered":"[Kagawa Traditional Craft] What is Marugame Uchiwa? Comprehensive Guide to Its History, Characteristics, Craftsmanship, and Contemporary Appeal"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Title: [Kagawa Traditional Craft] What is Marugame Uchiwa? Comprehensive Guide to Its History, Characteristics, Craftsmanship, and Contemporary Appeal<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Marugame Uchiwa&#8221; is one of Japan&#8217;s representative traditional crafts produced in Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture. Characterized by sturdy construction skillfully combining bamboo and Japanese paper with beautiful designs, it accounts for the majority of nationwide uchiwa (fan) production.<\/p>\n<p>Techniques continuing from the Edo period are still inherited today, with craftsmen&#8217;s advanced skills shining through in delicate handmade frameworks, painting, and finishing.<br \/>\nThis article provides <strong>a detailed explanation of Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s history, characteristics, craftsmanship in the production process, and its appeal being rediscovered in contemporary living and tourism<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 ez-toc-wrap-center counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-white ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#What_is_Marugame_Uchiwa_%E2%80%93_Kagawa_Bamboo_Craft_Boasting_Four_Hundred_Years_of_Tradition\" title=\"What is Marugame Uchiwa? \u2013 Kagawa Bamboo Craft Boasting Four Hundred Years of Tradition\">What is Marugame Uchiwa? \u2013 Kagawa Bamboo Craft Boasting Four Hundred Years of Tradition<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Origins_and_History_%E2%80%93_From_Edo_Religious_Faith_to_Common_Peoples_Practical_Goods\" title=\"Origins and History \u2013 From Edo Religious Faith to Common People&#8217;s Practical Goods\">Origins and History \u2013 From Edo Religious Faith to Common People&#8217;s Practical Goods<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Materials_and_Techniques_%E2%80%93_Delicate_Forms_Born_from_a_Single_Bamboo\" title=\"Materials and Techniques \u2013 Delicate Forms Born from a Single Bamboo\">Materials and Techniques \u2013 Delicate Forms Born from a Single Bamboo<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Design_and_Design_Diversification_%E2%80%93_Contemporary_Expression_Transcending_Tradition\" title=\"Design and Design Diversification \u2013 Contemporary Expression Transcending Tradition\">Design and Design Diversification \u2013 Contemporary Expression Transcending Tradition<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Characteristics_and_Appeal_of_Marugame_Uchiwa\" title=\"Characteristics and Appeal of Marugame Uchiwa\">Characteristics and Appeal of Marugame Uchiwa<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Harmony_of_Bamboo_and_Japanese_Paper_%E2%80%93_Natural_Beauty_Created_by_Materials\" title=\"Harmony of Bamboo and Japanese Paper \u2013 Natural Beauty Created by Materials\">Harmony of Bamboo and Japanese Paper \u2013 Natural Beauty Created by Materials<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Balance_of_Lightness_and_Strength_%E2%80%93_Structural_Beauty_Supporting_Usability\" title=\"Balance of Lightness and Strength \u2013 Structural Beauty Supporting Usability\">Balance of Lightness and Strength \u2013 Structural Beauty Supporting Usability<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Japanese_Beauty_Staging_Coolness_%E2%80%93_Crafts_Coloring_Living\" title=\"Japanese Beauty Staging Coolness \u2013 Crafts Coloring Living\">Japanese Beauty Staging Coolness \u2013 Crafts Coloring Living<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Marugame_Uchiwa_Production_Process_and_Craftsmanship\" title=\"Marugame Uchiwa Production Process and Craftsmanship\">Marugame Uchiwa Production Process and Craftsmanship<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Bamboo_Splitting_and_Rib-Making_%E2%80%93_Creating_Radial_Beauty_from_Single_Bamboo\" title=\"Bamboo Splitting and Rib-Making \u2013 Creating Radial Beauty from Single Bamboo\">Bamboo Splitting and Rib-Making \u2013 Creating Radial Beauty from Single Bamboo<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Paper_Application_and_Drying_%E2%80%93_Unity_Finished_by_Hand_Sensation\" title=\"Paper Application and Drying \u2013 Unity Finished by Hand Sensation\">Paper Application and Drying \u2013 Unity Finished by Hand Sensation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Finishing_and_Decoration_Techniques_%E2%80%93_Final_Process_Combining_Practicality_and_Beauty\" title=\"Finishing and Decoration Techniques \u2013 Final Process Combining Practicality and Beauty\">Finishing and Decoration Techniques \u2013 Final Process Combining Practicality and Beauty<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Marugame_Uchiwa_Production_Area_and_Regional_Culture\" title=\"Marugame Uchiwa Production Area and Regional Culture\">Marugame Uchiwa Production Area and Regional Culture<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Kagawa_Prefecture_Marugame_City_%E2%80%93_%E2%80%9CUchiwa_Village%E2%80%9D_Nurtured_by_Bamboo_and_Wind\" title=\"Kagawa Prefecture Marugame City \u2013 &#8220;Uchiwa Village&#8221; Nurtured by Bamboo and Wind\">Kagawa Prefecture Marugame City \u2013 &#8220;Uchiwa Village&#8221; Nurtured by Bamboo and Wind<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Community-Wide_Support_System_and_Craftsman_Networks\" title=\"Community-Wide Support System and Craftsman Networks\">Community-Wide Support System and Craftsman Networks<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#%E2%80%9CMarugame_Uchiwa_Museum%E2%80%9D_and_Tourism_Collaboration_Efforts\" title=\"&#8220;Marugame Uchiwa Museum&#8221; and Tourism Collaboration Efforts\">&#8220;Marugame Uchiwa Museum&#8221; and Tourism Collaboration Efforts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Contemporary_Value_and_International_Expansion_of_Marugame_Uchiwa\" title=\"Contemporary Value and International Expansion of Marugame Uchiwa\">Contemporary Value and International Expansion of Marugame Uchiwa<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Fusion_of_Tradition_and_Design_%E2%80%93_New_Generation_Craftsmen_and_Brand_Strategy\" title=\"Fusion of Tradition and Design \u2013 New Generation Craftsmen and Brand Strategy\">Fusion of Tradition and Design \u2013 New Generation Craftsmen and Brand Strategy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Environmental_Consideration_and_Shift_to_Sustainable_Materials\" title=\"Environmental Consideration and Shift to Sustainable Materials\">Environmental Consideration and Shift to Sustainable Materials<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Rising_Recognition_at_International_Trade_Shows_and_Gift_Markets\" title=\"Rising Recognition at International Trade Shows and Gift Markets\">Rising Recognition at International Trade Shows and Gift Markets<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/crafts\/marugame-uchiwa\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Marugame_Uchiwa_%E2%80%93_Kagawa_Bamboo_Craft_Boasting_Four_Hundred_Years_of_Tradition\"><\/span>What is Marugame Uchiwa? \u2013 Kagawa Bamboo Craft Boasting Four Hundred Years of Tradition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/2Q5o5YyFPgY?si=lv7Fw-bYgw1ZoUe1&amp;start=6\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><br \/>\nMarugame Uchiwa is one of Japan&#8217;s three major uchiwa types, produced primarily in Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture, as beautiful crafts where bamboo and Japanese paper interweave. Its origins trace back to the early Edo period, beginning when a monk brought back uchiwa-making from the capital of Kyoto and spread the craft.<\/p>\n<p>Marugame is a bamboo production area, and as craftsman culture developed as a castle town, uchiwa-making combining precise finishing with practical beauty took root. Currently designated as a nationally designated Traditional Craft, it attracts attention not only at festivals and as daily necessities nationwide but also at overseas design fairs.<\/p>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa, where bamboo&#8217;s flexibility coexists with handcraft warmth, truly represents &#8220;beautiful to use&#8221; craftsmanship.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Origins_and_History_%E2%80%93_From_Edo_Religious_Faith_to_Common_Peoples_Practical_Goods\"><\/span>Origins and History \u2013 From Edo Religious Faith to Common People&#8217;s Practical Goods<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s history dates back approximately 390 years to the early Edo period. It is said to have begun in Kanei 10 (1633) when Yugen, head priest of Konko-in temple affiliated with Konpira Daigongen, devised vermillion-red shibu uchiwa with round gold seal as souvenirs for Kotohira Shrine worshippers.<\/p>\n<p>This gradually gained reputation, and during the Tenmei period (1781-1789), the Marugame Domain encouraged it as side work for lower-ranking samurai, developing as an industry through castle town merchants and craftsmen. In the late Edo period, Marugame Port bustled with Konpira pilgrimage boats, distributing nationwide as souvenirs for worshippers and becoming indispensable summer tools in common people&#8217;s daily lives.<\/p>\n<p>After the Meiji period, demand increased as tourist souvenirs and advertising uchiwa, reaching peak production in the 1955-1964 Showa 30s period. Currently producing approximately 100 million annually and accounting for about 90% of national market share as Japan&#8217;s premier uchiwa production area, it is known domestically and internationally. Designated as a nationally designated Traditional Craft in 1997 (Heisei 9), the coexistence of tradition and industry represents Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s greatest characteristic.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Materials_and_Techniques_%E2%80%93_Delicate_Forms_Born_from_a_Single_Bamboo\"><\/span>Materials and Techniques \u2013 Delicate Forms Born from a Single Bamboo<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s appeal lies in its manufacturing method carving handle and ribs from a single bamboo piece. In the currently mainstream &#8220;flat-handle uchiwa,&#8221; the process of splitting bamboo and spreading it radially to create the framework requires advanced skills, with craftsmen carving uniform elasticity while assessing bamboo joints and thickness.<\/p>\n<p>Japanese paper or cloth is then applied, with all 47 processes including die-cutting, drying, and edge-binding performed entirely by hand.<br \/>\nJapanese paper uses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Echizen washi<\/li>\n<li>Awa washi<\/li>\n<li>Inshu washi<\/li>\n<li>Tosa washi<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Hand-made washi from various regions, achieving both breathability and strength.<br \/>\nPaste composition for bonding is adjusted according to paper thickness, with drying time subtly adjusted by craftsmen&#8217;s experience.<\/p>\n<p>This series of handwork produces finishes combining lightness and durability, bringing texture and warmth impossible in mass-produced items. About 100-200 uchiwa are made from a single bamboo, with techniques maximizing bamboo&#8217;s flexibility representing Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s essence.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Design_and_Design_Diversification_%E2%80%93_Contemporary_Expression_Transcending_Tradition\"><\/span>Design and Design Diversification \u2013 Contemporary Expression Transcending Tradition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa has evolved from mere daily necessities into art and design fields. Beyond traditional plain and indigo-dyed versions, diverse designs suited to purposes and seasons are born, including hand-painted patterns by artists and luxury items with yuzen dyeing and gold leaf decoration.<\/p>\n<p>Recently, collaborations with contemporary artists and designers flourish, with uchiwa incorporating transparent film and woodblock printing techniques also appearing. Popular as interior items and gifts as well. Particularly in the &#8220;Kagawa Uchiwa Craftsmen Project,&#8221; efforts progress to inherit traditional techniques while fusing new sensibilities, with increasing opportunities for young craftsmen to present at international exhibitions. Marugame Uchiwa transcends traditional craft frameworks, evolving into designs accompanying the times.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Characteristics_and_Appeal_of_Marugame_Uchiwa\"><\/span>Characteristics and Appeal of Marugame Uchiwa<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"iframe-center\"><iframe src=\"https:\/\/assets.pinterest.com\/ext\/embed.html?id=345440233932272028\" height=\"560\" width=\"345\" frameborder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" ><\/iframe><\/div>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s appeal lies in bamboo texture, Japanese paper lightness, and precise handcrafted forms. As crafts combining practicality and beauty, they continue captivating domestic and international fans.<\/p>\n<p>Particularly, the unique structure creating handle and ribs integrally from single bamboo achieves sturdiness and flexibility unmatched by uchiwa from other regions. Additionally, surface finishes using hand-made washi or cloth calculate even transmitted light and airflow patterns, valued as symbols of Japanese culture feeling coolness.<\/p>\n<p>Recently, design quality has also improved, gaining popularity as contemporary art uchiwa utilizing traditional techniques.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Harmony_of_Bamboo_and_Japanese_Paper_%E2%80%93_Natural_Beauty_Created_by_Materials\"><\/span>Harmony of Bamboo and Japanese Paper \u2013 Natural Beauty Created by Materials<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa maximally brings out natural material appeal as crafts. Frameworks use Kagawa Prefecture-produced madake bamboo or Iyo (Ehime Prefecture) bamboo, lightweight yet excellent in strength.<\/p>\n<p>In the process of thinly shaving bamboo and spreading radially, craftsmen make subtle adjustments by touch and sound to produce uniform thickness and elasticity. Japanese paper applied to this framework has good breathability and transmits soft light, providing pleasant coolness with each use.<\/p>\n<p>Paper uses hand-made washi from various regions including Echizen washi, Awa washi, Inshu washi, and Tosa washi, with finishes utilizing material textures themselves being characteristic. As sung &#8220;Iyo bamboo with Tosa paper affixed, waving brings supreme (Shikoku) coolness with Sanuki uchiwa,&#8221; the harmony of different materials bamboo and paper brings comfort letting you feel nature&#8217;s breath, representing Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s unique appeal.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Balance_of_Lightness_and_Strength_%E2%80%93_Structural_Beauty_Supporting_Usability\"><\/span>Balance of Lightness and Strength \u2013 Structural Beauty Supporting Usability<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa has a reputation for being surprisingly light yet sturdy. The secret lies in craftsmanship thoroughly knowing bamboo properties. Shape is stabilized through the &#8220;bending&#8221; process of splitting bamboo and bending while heating with fire, ensuring strength utilizing bamboo fiber direction.<\/p>\n<p>The &#8220;round handle structure&#8221; creating handle and ribs integrally resists breaking without adhesion or joints, not tiring even with long use. Additionally, paper application methods and paste amounts are ingenious, designed to resist warping even in humid summers and send wind softly.<\/p>\n<p>Structure itself is design, also characterized by shining design beauty without waste. Marugame Uchiwa balancing usability and beauty truly represents the typical &#8220;design created by function.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Japanese_Beauty_Staging_Coolness_%E2%80%93_Crafts_Coloring_Living\"><\/span>Japanese Beauty Staging Coolness \u2013 Crafts Coloring Living<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa is not merely practical items but cultural existence symbolizing Japanese &#8220;coolness.&#8221; Uchiwa-fanning gestures, sounds, and wind sensations contain emotion feeling seasonal transitions.<\/p>\n<p>Recently also popular as interior items utilizing washi transparency and pattern beauty, used for wall hangings, store decorations, and stage productions. Particularly, luxury uchiwa with indigo dyeing and gold leaf receive high recognition from domestic and international collectors as artistic crafts.<\/p>\n<p>Furthermore, adopted for summer festivals, gift items, and hotel welcome gifts, representing excellent examples of traditional crafts blending into daily life. Marugame Uchiwa remains alive today as tools feeling coolness while simultaneously symbolizing Japanese culture healing hearts.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Marugame_Uchiwa_Production_Process_and_Craftsmanship\"><\/span>Marugame Uchiwa Production Process and Craftsmanship<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/JhQlGiXrlRk?si=LSqQWwrvMzFPRds6\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><br \/>\nMarugame Uchiwa are crafts where craftsmen&#8217;s delicate handwork dwells in all processes. The unique manufacturing method carving handle and ribs integrally from single bamboo is inherited only in Marugame among nationwide uchiwa production areas.<\/p>\n<p>Splitting, bending, spreading bamboo, applying paper, drying, finishing \u2013 these processes reach approximately 47, all requiring skilled experience. Because mass production is difficult, subtle individuality and craftsmen&#8217;s breath dwell in each uchiwa.<\/p>\n<p>Here, we&#8217;ll examine in detail three representative processes supporting Marugame Uchiwa-making from bamboo splitting to finishing.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Bamboo_Splitting_and_Rib-Making_%E2%80%93_Creating_Radial_Beauty_from_Single_Bamboo\"><\/span>Bamboo Splitting and Rib-Making \u2013 Creating Radial Beauty from Single Bamboo<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa production begins with material selection and bamboo splitting. Kagawa Prefecture-produced madake bamboo is used, with long internodes and rich elasticity considered optimal.<\/p>\n<p>Craftsmen split vertically in uniform widths while assessing bamboo condition, creating parts becoming uchiwa ribs. This &#8220;splitting&#8221; work appears simple but requires skilled technique as finishing greatly changes with force application alone.<\/p>\n<p>Split bamboo undergoes the &#8220;bending&#8221; process of bending while heating with fire, shaped into radially opening forms. Producing accurate angles and uniform intervals here leads to balancing beautiful framework and durability. From single bamboo, transforming into tools manipulating wind \u2013 this process is Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s lifeline.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Paper_Application_and_Drying_%E2%80%93_Unity_Finished_by_Hand_Sensation\"><\/span>Paper Application and Drying \u2013 Unity Finished by Hand Sensation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Once bamboo ribs complete, next comes the Japanese paper or cloth application process. Used paper is Sanuki washi or Mino paper with excellent breathability, with craftsmen judging that day&#8217;s &#8220;condition&#8221; while observing paste concentration and temperature\/humidity balance.<\/p>\n<p>Tension when spreading paste thinly and uniformly and applying paper along rib radii influences finishing. Strong application causes warping, weak causes sagging, so craftsmen adjust optimal tension by fingertip sensation.<\/p>\n<p>Applied uchiwa are naturally dried in humidity-controlled rooms, firmly adhering paper and bamboo. Rushing this drying process causes distortion, so careful drying takes overnight to several days. Paper application is the process creating uchiwa&#8217;s &#8220;face,&#8221; important work determining visual beauty and wind-flow comfort.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Finishing_and_Decoration_Techniques_%E2%80%93_Final_Process_Combining_Practicality_and_Beauty\"><\/span>Finishing and Decoration Techniques \u2013 Final Process Combining Practicality and Beauty<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Final finishing reinforces uchiwa edges and shapes handles. Edge-binding uses narrow paper called &#8220;heri-gami,&#8221; with impressions greatly changing by color and material combinations.<\/p>\n<p>Next, &#8220;handle carving&#8221; processing the grip part with small knives is performed, finishing into hand-friendly shapes. When decoration is applied, diverse expressions including indigo dyeing and gold\/silver leaf application are added.<\/p>\n<p>Particularly in luxury items, there is &#8220;fufu&#8221; (wind cloth) with sheer fabric bonded to both front and back surfaces, with material transparency increasing coolness sensation and beautiful finishing as decorative items. Marugame Uchiwa completing all processes are masterpieces combining lightness, sturdiness, and artistry. As &#8220;wind crafts&#8221; accompanying users&#8217; lives, their life is breathed into them.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Marugame_Uchiwa_Production_Area_and_Regional_Culture\"><\/span>Marugame Uchiwa Production Area and Regional Culture<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa is regional craft deeply rooted in Kagawa Prefecture Marugame City&#8217;s climate and people&#8217;s lives. Natural environment blessed with bamboo forests and the Seto Inland Sea&#8217;s mild climate have prepared optimal conditions for uchiwa-making.<\/p>\n<p>Craftsmen&#8217;s skills and distribution systems continuing from the Edo period are supported throughout the town, still breathing today as residents&#8217; pride. In Marugame City, efforts progress protecting traditional crafts from both regional industry and tourism resource perspectives, with craftsman experiences and bamboo craft-making incorporated into school education, preserving inheritance to next generations as local culture.<\/p>\n<p>Uchiwa are not merely summer tools but &#8220;Marugame&#8217;s face&#8221; symbolizing regional history and human bonds.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Kagawa_Prefecture_Marugame_City_%E2%80%93_%E2%80%9CUchiwa_Village%E2%80%9D_Nurtured_by_Bamboo_and_Wind\"><\/span>Kagawa Prefecture Marugame City \u2013 &#8220;Uchiwa Village&#8221; Nurtured by Bamboo and Wind<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Kagawa Prefecture Marugame City is a region with favorable location conditions for uchiwa-making. As sung &#8220;Iyo bamboo with Tosa paper affixed, waving brings supreme (Shikoku) coolness with Sanuki uchiwa,&#8221; bamboo necessary for uchiwa production comes from Ehime Prefecture, paper from Kochi Prefecture, and paste from Tokushima Prefecture, with geographical advantages of obtaining all materials nearby.<\/p>\n<p>The Seto Inland Sea-facing warm climate promotes bamboo growth and suits drying and finishing processes. Currently in Marugame City, producing approximately 100 million annually, establishing position as an &#8220;uchiwa major production area&#8221; accounting for about 90% of production volume. Shikoku&#8217;s geographical advantages and long-cultivated technical accumulation continue supporting tradition.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Community-Wide_Support_System_and_Craftsman_Networks\"><\/span>Community-Wide Support System and Craftsman Networks<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Behind Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s long continuation lies community-wide support and cooperation systems. Within the city, division of labor is established including farmers performing bamboo cutting and material supply, rib-specialized craftsmen, and processors handling paper application and finishing.<\/p>\n<p>This enables individual craftsmen to concentrate on their specialty fields, enabling high-quality product creation. Additionally, the Marugame Uchiwa Cooperative regularly holds exhibitions and workshops for technical inheritance and market expansion.<\/p>\n<p>Putting energy into young people development, collaborative classes with local high schools and joint research with universities also progress. Craftsmen don&#8217;t compete with each other but operate as a &#8220;technical community&#8221; sharing regional pride, with this unity supporting Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s sustainable development.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CMarugame_Uchiwa_Museum%E2%80%9D_and_Tourism_Collaboration_Efforts\"><\/span>&#8220;Marugame Uchiwa Museum&#8221; and Tourism Collaboration Efforts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/uchiwa-museum_soto.webp\" alt=\"Marugame Uchiwa Museum\" width=\"850\" height=\"566\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8628\" \/><br \/>\nIn Marugame City, efforts actively utilizing traditional crafts as tourism resources are also conducted. The central facility is the &#8220;Marugame Uchiwa Museum.&#8221; Reopened on March 25, 2023 within Nakatsu Banshoen Garden, the museum exhibits Edo-period old uchiwa and tools, with demonstrations and production experiences by craftsmen, bustling with tourists year-round.<\/p>\n<p>Particularly &#8220;create your own uchiwa experience&#8221; is highly popular, with traditional craft masters and Marugame Uchiwa New Masters carefully teaching production methods. Additionally, production experiences are possible at &#8220;Uchiwa Workshop &#8216;Take&#8217;,&#8221; where time during production to drying can be used to enjoy Marugame Castle grounds strolling.<\/p>\n<p>In 2023, &#8220;Marugame Uchiwa Festa 2023&#8221; was held commemorating museum relocation, entertaining local residents and tourists with diverse content including uchiwa production experiences, mystery-solving quiz rallies, and kitchen car appearances. Through such activities, Marugame Uchiwa realizes coexistence of industrial promotion and tourism promotion as regional culture symbol.<\/p>\n<h4>Marugame Uchiwa Museum Overview<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Address: \u3012763-0054 25-1 Nakatsu-cho, Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture<\/li>\n<li>Phone: TEL: 0877-24-7055\u3000FAX: 0877-43-6966<\/li>\n<li>Opening Hours: 9:30~17:00 (Admission until 16:30)<\/li>\n<li>Closed: Every Wednesday (following day if holiday) \/ Year-end\/New Year (December 29-January 3)<\/li>\n<li>Admission: Free<\/li>\n<li>Parking: Approximately 15 passenger cars. For large buses, please consult in advance.<\/li>\n<li>Official Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/marugameuchiwa.jp\/museum\" rel=\"noopener nofollow \" target=\"_blank\">https:\/\/marugameuchiwa.jp\/museum<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Contemporary_Value_and_International_Expansion_of_Marugame_Uchiwa\"><\/span>Contemporary Value and International Expansion of Marugame Uchiwa<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><iframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rXjsoASp5CI?si=z06_eNfoK4K66imY\" title=\"YouTube video player\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><br \/>\nMarugame Uchiwa continues evolving in forms adapting to contemporary lifestyles and international markets while preserving tradition. Domestically, demand expands into interior and gift markets, while overseas it attracts attention as design items symbolizing Japanese culture.<\/p>\n<p>Recently, re-evaluation as &#8220;sustainable crafts&#8221; progresses from SDGs and ethical consumption perspectives, with points using renewable materials bamboo and washi highly valued. Here, we introduce new craftsmen generations supporting Marugame Uchiwa&#8217;s contemporary value and international expansion trends.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fusion_of_Tradition_and_Design_%E2%80%93_New_Generation_Craftsmen_and_Brand_Strategy\"><\/span>Fusion of Tradition and Design \u2013 New Generation Craftsmen and Brand Strategy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Young craftsmen&#8217;s emergence incorporating contemporary sensibilities while inheriting traditional techniques brings new vitality to Marugame Uchiwa. For example, through collaborations with design units and interior brands, uchiwa with modern colors and graphics are born.<\/p>\n<p>Within Marugame City, female craftsmen and designer-background makers are increasing, with attempts progressing combining new forms and materials with traditional bamboo-splitting techniques. Additionally, through the &#8220;Kagawa Uchiwa Brand Certification System,&#8221; products meeting certain quality standards are branded, with systems established for unified PR at overseas trade shows.<\/p>\n<p>Such diverse communication power elevates Marugame Uchiwa into &#8220;evolving traditional crafts.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Environmental_Consideration_and_Shift_to_Sustainable_Materials\"><\/span>Environmental Consideration and Shift to Sustainable Materials<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa also attracts attention as &#8220;sustainable crafts&#8221; appropriate for current times. Raw material bamboo grows quickly, is renewable resource, valued for low environmental burden.<\/p>\n<p>Craftsmen complete everything from cutting to processing locally, building production systems minimizing transport energy. Furthermore, efforts progress minimizing adhesives so uchiwa can be disassembled and reused after use.<\/p>\n<p>This existence as &#8220;circular products&#8221; never discarded receives high recognition in overseas markets, with increasing submissions to eco-design awards. Through sustainable manufacturing, Marugame Uchiwa enhances international presence as &#8220;earth-friendly traditional crafts.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Rising_Recognition_at_International_Trade_Shows_and_Gift_Markets\"><\/span>Rising Recognition at International Trade Shows and Gift Markets<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa is beginning to attract attention at overseas design trade shows. Particularly at France Paris&#8217;s world&#8217;s largest international interior trade show &#8220;Maison &#038; Objet,&#8221; Kamikougei Yamada Co., Ltd. (Uchiwaya Ryo) exhibited for the first time in January 2024, continuing consecutive exhibition in January 2025, with simple, functional forms and natural material textures being valued.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, through FUNFAN exhibitions, 61 graphic designers from 22 countries overseas have participated since 2007, with Marugame Uchiwa exhibitions held in Italy, Taiwan, Czech Republic, America and others, contributing to international recognition improvement. Through JICA&#8217;s grassroots technical cooperation projects, uchiwa industry promotion support programs are implemented in Laos, progressing international cooperation through technology transfer.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, JTB embarked on overseas market development for Marugame Uchiwa produced in the 2022 &#8220;Sanuki Remix&#8221; project, with digital sales expansion revealing new possibilities connecting traditional crafts with global markets. Marugame Uchiwa now faces a new stage as &#8220;wind art&#8221; transmitted worldwide.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Marugame Uchiwa is four-hundred-year traditional craft that Kagawa Prefecture Marugame City is proud of, symbolizing functional beauty and warmth woven by bamboo and Japanese paper. Framework spreading radially from single bamboo is crystallization of skilled craftsmen&#8217;s techniques and aesthetic eyes, with 47 hand-finished processes embodying Japanese manufacturing spirit.<\/p>\n<p>Recently, it has evolved in design and environmental consideration aspects, receiving high recognition as &#8220;sustainable crafts&#8221; in domestic and international markets. Uchiwa culture inherited with gentle winds blowing in Marugame continues spreading in new forms today, delivering &#8220;coolness and beauty&#8221; to people&#8217;s lives worldwide.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Title: [Kagawa Traditional Craft] What is Marugame Uchiwa? Comprehensive Guide to Its History, Characteristics, Craftsmanship, and Contemporary Appeal &#8220;Marugame Uchiwa&#8221; is one of Japan&#8217;s representative traditional crafts produced in Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture. Characterized by sturdy construction skillfully combining bamboo and Japanese paper with beautiful designs, it accounts for the majority of nationwide uchiwa (fan)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":6719,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[84],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6718","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-crafts"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6718","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6718"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6718\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6719"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6718"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6718"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.kogei-japonica.com\/media\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6718"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}