Kaijogi Aizome (Aizome hemp)
The HARAPPA mini tote bag was created with the idea of "things that can be used for a long time." The fabric uses traditional materials called Kaijogi Aizome hemp, which has been passed down for over 400 years in the Kaijo region.
Kaijogi Aizome hemp is a durable fabric developed to suit the harsh climate of the Kaijo basin. The more you use it, the softer it becomes, and you can also enjoy the process of nurturing it.
Just right for everyday use, mini tote bag with a matchbox
The lunch box and water bottle fit snugly, giving a compact yet practical size feel.
The matchbox measures about 12cm (4.72in), and when viewed from above, the contents are easy to see, providing a sense of stability.
Lightweight and easy to carry, it is active as a bag for a short outing or shopping.
A simple mini tote bag that you can add to your everyday use.
Blending ancient techniques into today's daily life
"Wakakusa" is a dyed fabric based on a delicate green that evokes the feeling of spring.
The multiple color threads woven into stripes give a light and elegant impression.
It is a calm color that blends well with natural outfits.
【Product Details】
Size: 15cm (5.9in) x 35cm (13.7in) x 12cm (4.72in)
【Handling Precautions】
Due to the nature of the materials and the handmade production process, there may be slight discrepancies in the stated size. Please understand this in advance.
Passing down the traditional "Kaijogi Aizome" to future generations
The Kaijogi Aizome hemp used in this mini tote bag is a traditional craft from the Kaijo region located in the western part of Tokushima Prefecture, which has been handed down for over 400 years.
Developed to suit the hot summers and harsh cold winters of the Kaijo basin, this material has been cherished since ancient times as casual wear (work clothes and everyday wear). In addition to its thickness, the manufacturing process gives it excellent breathability, moisture absorption, and heat retention, making it cool in summer and warm in winter. Also, due to its thickness, it is durable and resistant to shrinkage even after washing.
This Kaijogi Aizome is a unique fabric from Kaijo that is carefully dyed and woven from start to finish. The Harayama Textile Factory, which has preserved this tradition for about 120 years, is the only factory in Kaijo to produce it.
Then, to protect the technology and spirit of the Harayama Textile Factory, the same factory was inherited and established as "Hirappa Co., Ltd." in March 2015. It was founded by designer Nana Yamazoe, who uses Kaijogi Aizome from Harayama Textile Factory in Kaneto City, the hometown of the former company president's younger brother.
The Kaijogi Aizome, which has supported casual wear and work clothes until now, and the "spirit of craftsmanship" that Harayama Textile Factory has carefully preserved for 500 to 600 years—such thoughts of "Hirappa Co., Ltd." are incorporated into this product.
Embracing the spirit of "careful use" in craftsmanship
Nana Yamazoe, the representative of "Hirappa Co., Ltd.," has been involved with the apparel brand "YAMMA" since before inheriting Harayama Textile Factory and has valued the following principles.
Without being swayed by trends or mass production, creating clothing that is loved and worn for a long time.
"The experience of carefully continuing to use one item leads to the confidence of the wearer" is her way of thinking.
Kaijogi Aizome fabric that can be used regardless of summer or winter and can be used for a long time is exactly the material dear to Ms. Yamazoe's philosophy. Based on this idea, YAMMA and HARAPPA have adopted a style of made-to-order production that allows customers to love and use the products.
However, as the number of orders increases, they faced the challenge of meeting customer demand. Therefore, Ms. Yamazoe proposed "a design that is ordinary without being swayed by age" and "a design that fits well over a long time," and continues to shape items that match this concept.
One of these is this mini tote bag. It is not flashy but can be loved for a long time without being influenced by trends or age.
Also, although the fabric is originally stiff, the more you use it, the softer it becomes, allowing you to enjoy using it for a long time.
