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Shibusawa Eiichi's Hat-Making Philosophy & Culture for Future Generations: "Tokio hat"
Shibusawa Eiichi (western order: Eiichi Shibusawa, but usually written in Japanese order), now the face of the new 10,000 yen bill, is widely recognized as "the father of modern Japanese economy." He established numerous companies and focused significant efforts on public welfare and education in society.
Among his endeavors was hat manufacturing. Shibusawa founded Tokyo Hat Co., Ltd. (東京帽子株式会社), and managed the process from production to distribution. Remarkably, this business continues today, embodied in Aurora Co., Ltd.'s brand, "Tokio hat."
The brand carries on Shibusawa’s spirit of bold hat-making and development, upholding his philosophy of management and craftsmanship. We spoke with Yuki Yamamoto from the company's Product Coordination Department about the journey of "Tokio hat" and the spread of hat culture.
PROFILE
Yuki Yamamoto
Aurora Co., Ltd. Product Coordination Department
Head of Public Relations & Brand Marketing MD
Graduated from a fashion design school, studied knitwear in Italy.
Upon returning to Japan, worked in digital-related companies before joining Borsalino Japan Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of Aurora Co., Ltd., in 2011. Engaged in various roles including hat planning, press, and web management, he transferred to Aurora Co., Ltd. in 2018. Involved in hat planning and established the web business while handling public relations, continuing to date.
Established by Shibusawa Eiichi & Still Thriving
Could you first explain the relationship between Aurora Co., Ltd. and the original Tokyo Hat Co., Ltd.?
Aurora Co., Ltd. was founded in 1896 and is approaching its 130th anniversary. Starting as a wholesaler of Western umbrellas and traditional Japanese shawls, in 1993, it began dealing with women’s hats. Today, sales are primarily through department stores and various other outlets.This article is for members only.
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