Learn About the History and Beauty of Kumihimo in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku
Learn About the History and Beauty of Kumihimo in Kagurazaka, Shinjuku Discover the 1,400-Year History and Unique Craft of Kumihimo in Japan Japanese Kumihimo (braided cords) have a history of 1,400 years since they were introduced from mainland China. After their introduction, Kumihimo developed into a unique craft unlike anything else in the world. The techniques for creating intricate and delicate designs within a single, thin cord have been perfected over the centuries. Kumihimo has become deeply embedded in Japanese culture, used to tie things together, secure clothing, and as decorative elements for items like samurai swords. The Unique Art of Kumihimo: Crafting Intricate Designs from a Single Line The most distinctive feature of Kumihimo is its ability to create one-dimensional lines. While paintings and textiles are two-dimensional and architecture and sculptures are three-dimensional, Kumihimo is a craft that produces the most primitive and universal form: a single line. However, when viewed more closely, this single line contains countless interwoven threads. For example, an average obijime (a cord used to tie an obi) consists of more than 50,000 silk threads. These threads create multiple layered structures that ultimately form a single cord. The Art of Kumihimo: Endless Expressions Through