Behind the Brand

Seeds of Light for the Future

AKARInoTANE ETHOS was founded with a simple belief: tradition must continue to live, not only in museums, but in the hands of future generations.

I was born in Gifu, the home of Japanese wagasa craftsmanship, where nearly 80% of the nation's traditional umbrellas are produced. Yet today, this precious heritage faces many challenges.

There is a shortage of artisans, bamboo, and traditional washi paper. The rokuro—the wooden hub at the center of a wagasa—can now be made by only a few masters in all of Japan. Without these skills, an entire cultural tradition risks disappearing.

Through my work, I hope to preserve and share these traditions with the world.