Hiyoshiya

Innovation Meets Tradition While Prioritizing the Handmade

Hiyoshiya has been producing Japanese Wagasa (paper umbrellas) used for temples, shrines, performing events, and personal use for about 160 years and five generations. Each umbrella is made up of 44 bamboo bones and washi (Japanese traditional papers) made from renewable plant fibers. Traditional motifs adorn the umbrellas giving them cultural significance and storied meaning. While staying true to wagasa’s roots, Hiyoshiya has also innovated this thousand year old practice by creating a special line of modern day lighting products using the same craftsmanship wagasa requires. These functional and ornamental lampshades are comprised of delicate bamboo-made structure and washi paper shade.

Hiyoshiya applies traditional Japanese color theory in order to create ambient lighting through their lampshades and umbrellas. “The colors of washi are made by hand by the traditional craftsmen of Gokayama washi in Toyama Prefecture, and are of one of the highest quality of washi.” From the harvesting of natural fibers and bamboo to the actual making of the umbrellas and lampshades, skilled artisans are producing everything by hand. A perfect blend of innovation and tradition, while prioritizing the humanity of the handmade.