Make a Traditional Parasol at Kyoto’s Last Remaining Wagasa Shop

An Evolving Tradition at a Historic Shop

Wagasa are Japanese umbrellas and parasols. Historically, they have been used not only as protection from rain and sun, but also to ward off evil through their patterns and colors. Their fine workmanship and vivid designs made them an iconic symbol of traditional Japanese culture, but as demand declined so did the domestic wagasa industry as a whole. Nowadays, Hiyoshiya is the only wagasa shop left in Kyoto, and one of only a handful remaining in Japan.

Hiyoshiya’s storefront in Kyoto

With 160 years of history, Hiyoshiya has had to adjust to the times while remaining true to their roots. In this experience, guests can take part in this tradition by making a sturdy bangasa umbrella with the help of one of Hiyoshiya’s master craftsmen.

Five Generations of Craftsmanship

At the start of the experience, guests will be addressed by professional artisans. They will explain the significance of wagasa and examine in more detail the skill that goes into making these remarkable parasols.

Kotaro Nishibori, the fifth-generation head of Hiyoshiya (The instructor is subject to change without notice.)

Hiyoshiya specializes in kyo-wagasa — wagasa made in the Kyoto style. These can be used both as umbrellas and parasols, and are characterized by their delicate appearance and meticulous handiwork. Light shining through the umbrella’s coloured paper lights up the holder’s face in beguiling soft tones.

Hiyoshiya’s wagasa are also notable for using 100% natural materials: bamboo, glue, paper, and linseed oil for waterproofing. This commitment to traditional processes also means that each umbrella is unique, and is carefully crafted while taking temperature and humidity into account.

The Parasol Process Begins

The first step is to prepare the glue. While mixing and kneading it to reach the right consistency, an experienced artisan will explain the delicate balance of ingredients required to make the perfect mix.

Mixing and kneading the glue

Next, guests may choose a paper color to use in their parasol. White, red, black, purple, and green washi paper is sourced from nearby Gokayama and Echizen, and features a unique texture due to its manufacturing process.

A green tokusen bangasa parasol

A bangasa parasol with a white circle pattern “Janome pattern” can also be manufactured as an option.

Once all the materials have been gathered, it’s time to put them together. Guests will carefully apply paper to the bamboo ribs of the umbrella, with the artisan’s guidance ensuring that there are no gaps.

Carefully apply glue to each rip individually.

The delicate craftsmanship unfolds before your eyes as the umbrella is opened for the first time. This must be done carefully to ensure that the paper is stretched but not torn.

The glue dries slowly, allowing plenty of time to fix the paper carefully

A skilled artisan says that the stretching process is akin to talking to the umbrella, or meditating. Natural materials respond to heat and humidity, so making a truly excellent wagasa requires careful attention to the weather and season as well as to the handiwork.

Traditional Personalization

While the tasteful bamboo frame and brightly coloured paper create a delightful piece on their own, guests may also choose to add a monogram or Japanese words to the edge of the paper. 

Greater personalization is possible by adding a monogram or Japanese words

Guests may write themselves, or have their teacher write something for them.

The Finishing Touches

Even after applying and stretching the paper, there are still several processes required to finish the wagasa. More washi paper is added to the handle for decoration and protection, and the umbrella is carefully closed to ensure creases fall in the right place.

Finally, the paper and bamboo are oiled to make them waterproof. Hiyoshiya uses natural linseed oil, and leaves wagasa outside in the sun for about two weeks to fully cure.

Oiled wagasa curing in the sun

At last, the wagasa is complete, and ready to serve as a piece of Japanese culture to carry with you for years to come.