Kumihimo
OtherKanto
Price range
¥1,000 ~ ¥30,000
Braided cords from Tokyo and Kyoto used for kimono obi ties and accessories.
Kumihimo is the traditional Japanese art of braiding silk and other threads into decorative cords using a marudai (round stand) or takadai (square stand). With roots in the Nara period (8th century), kumihimo cords were historically used to lace samurai armor, bind sword hilts, and fasten court garments. Today they are most commonly seen as obijime — the decorative cord tied around a kimono obi sash — with each braid pattern carrying specific cultural meanings. The rhythmic, meditative process of interlacing dozens of weighted thread bundles produces over 40 traditional braid structures.
At a Glance
- Craft Type
- other
- Region
- Kanto
- Materials
- Silk thread, gold thread
- Designation
- national traditional
- Price Range
- ¥1000–¥30000
Materials
Silk thread, gold thread
Techniques
Marudai and takadai braiding
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of craft is Kumihimo?
Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese other craft.
What materials are used to make Kumihimo?
Kumihimo is made using Silk thread, gold thread.
Is Kumihimo a designated traditional craft?
Yes, Kumihimo holds the National Traditional Craft designation.
Where does Kumihimo originate from?
Kumihimo originates from Kanto, Japan.
What techniques are used to make Kumihimo?
The techniques used include: Marudai and takadai braiding.
How much does Kumihimo cost?
Kumihimo is typically priced between ¥1000 and ¥30000.
Is Kumihimo a good souvenir from Japan?
Kumihimo is a popular traditional Japanese craft that makes an excellent souvenir.
What makes Kumihimo unique?
Kumihimo is distinguished by its Marudai and takadai braiding techniques and Silk thread, gold thread materials.
How is Kumihimo traditionally used?
Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese other craft with both practical and decorative applications.
