The third-generation head of KOMIYA SHOTEN CO.LTD, Komiya was born in 1969. After joining in 2000, he has devoted himself to the development of Japanese umbrellas using traditional techniques with Koshu Ori weaving. In 2018, the Tokyo Umbrella was selected as a Tokyo traditional craft, and two skilled craftsmen at Komiya Shoten were recognized as Tokyo traditional crafts artisans. Currently, artisans in their 30s and 40s carry on the techniques as successors.
A member of the manufacturing department of KOMIYA SHOTEN CO.LTD, Tanaka transitioned to the umbrella industry from another field and has been an umbrella craftsman for 13 years. In addition to manufacturing umbrellas in their workshop, he is dedicated to nurturing the next generation and is in charge of workshops and events.
Preserving the Legacy of Tokyo's Umbrella Craftsmanship
Could you tell us about the features of the umbrellas manufactured at Komiya Shoten?
Komiya For over 90 years since our founding in 1930, our artisans have handcrafted each umbrella one by one, using techniques passed down since the Meiji era.For example, to prevent injury when opening the umbrella, we cover the "rokuro"—the part you push with your fingers—with fabric, called "rokuro wrapping," and we protect the part where the ribs contact the fabric, known as the "dabo," with "dabo wrapping."
Due to the intricate structural details involved, it can be challenging, yet we focus on even the hidden aspects, meticulously crafting each umbrella with care.
Many customers have been using their umbrellas for over 10 years. Even if parts like the ribs get damaged, we offer repairs at our workshop, allowing long-term use through continuous maintenance. The more you use it, the more you can appreciate the quality of its craftsmanship.
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