Japanese Paper Washi Umbrella 'Iko'
Japanese Paper Washi Umbrella 'Iko' — Traditional Washi-Inspired Wagasa
Washi — traditional Japanese handmade paper — has been crafted since the 7th century from the inner bark of native plants like kozo (mulberry), mitsumata, and gampi. Used for everything from Buddhist sutras to shoji screens to the canopy of traditional wagasa umbrellas, washi is among Japan's most refined craft materials. The best washi makers still work in regional centers like Mino and Echizen, using techniques passed down for centuries.
Historically, traditional wagasa canopies were made from oiled washi paper — the oil treatment made the paper waterproof while preserving its characteristic luminous quality when light passed through. This gave wagasa their signature soft glow under sunlight, a quality modern synthetic umbrella fabrics simply cannot replicate. The Iko honors this washi heritage with a design inspired by the paper tradition.
Built with a genuine bamboo handle and traditional wagasa construction, the umbrella spans 80cm at 250g. The bamboo provides the natural feel and subtle flexibility of traditional Japanese parasol craft, while the washi-inspired design connects directly to the paper traditions that have defined Japanese wagasa for over a millennium.
The Iko works beautifully for cultural occasions, photography, themed events, or as a distinctive parasol with real craft depth. It also serves as a striking decorative piece in Japanese-inspired interiors that celebrate traditional paper arts. A meaningful gift for anyone drawn to Japanese paper tradition or traditional umbrella craft.
- Traditional craftsmanship
- Bamboo handle
- 80 cm diameter
- Lightweight: 250 g
- Eco-friendly design
Original: $35.00
-65%$35.00
$12.25
Description
Japanese Paper Washi Umbrella 'Iko' — Traditional Washi-Inspired Wagasa
Washi — traditional Japanese handmade paper — has been crafted since the 7th century from the inner bark of native plants like kozo (mulberry), mitsumata, and gampi. Used for everything from Buddhist sutras to shoji screens to the canopy of traditional wagasa umbrellas, washi is among Japan's most refined craft materials. The best washi makers still work in regional centers like Mino and Echizen, using techniques passed down for centuries.
Historically, traditional wagasa canopies were made from oiled washi paper — the oil treatment made the paper waterproof while preserving its characteristic luminous quality when light passed through. This gave wagasa their signature soft glow under sunlight, a quality modern synthetic umbrella fabrics simply cannot replicate. The Iko honors this washi heritage with a design inspired by the paper tradition.
Built with a genuine bamboo handle and traditional wagasa construction, the umbrella spans 80cm at 250g. The bamboo provides the natural feel and subtle flexibility of traditional Japanese parasol craft, while the washi-inspired design connects directly to the paper traditions that have defined Japanese wagasa for over a millennium.
The Iko works beautifully for cultural occasions, photography, themed events, or as a distinctive parasol with real craft depth. It also serves as a striking decorative piece in Japanese-inspired interiors that celebrate traditional paper arts. A meaningful gift for anyone drawn to Japanese paper tradition or traditional umbrella craft.
- Traditional craftsmanship
- Bamboo handle
- 80 cm diameter
- Lightweight: 250 g
- Eco-friendly design
