Kumihimo, or braided cords, were once essential items, used for the straps of samurai swords and as *obijime* sashes for women's kimonos. This traditional Japanese craft dates back to the Nara period (710-794). For centuries, Iga City in Mie Prefecture has been a hub for this technique, with "Iga Kumihimo" being recognized as one of Japan's top three braided cord styles. However, as Western clothing became more common, demand plummeted. The number of workshops, which exceeded 100 at their peak, has now shrunk to just 18.

At Itogo Co., Ltd., their mission goes beyond simply "preserving tradition"—they are continuously innovating for a new era. Their efforts to expand the potential of kumihimo are gaining attention, with their braided cords being used as shoelaces for cleats worn by professional baseball and soccer players and as commemorative items for international tournaments.

We spoke with Matsuda, the fourth-generation president of the company, who continues the legacy of kumihimo braiding in Iga. Here, we explore his initiatives to carry this tradition into the future.