A Weaving Family Line Continues from Pre-Edo

Please tell us about your business and its beginnings.

During the Edo period, weaving was the sole industry in Nara, with approximately 90% of residents in Naramachi involved in it. The Okai family has engaged in weaving for generations, launching the house name "Mafu Okai Shop" in 1863. They primarily wove items related to the tea ceremony, such as kamishimo, cloths, and sukiya bags for samurai. They wholesaled to traders, but as the demand for tea utensils waned, they feared decline. Thus, they aimed to create products suitable for modern lifestyles by using hand-spun, handwoven Nara Sarashi, opening a store 20 years ago.

What prompted and led you to take over the family business?

Anticipating future benefits, I studied business at a university in Kyoto. While I intended to someday inherit the family business, I initially thought it might be better to explore other fields. However, just as I graduated, we decided to open a store, prompting me to immediately engage in the family business. I started as the store manager, learning alongside the staff about customer service and sales, in addition to weaving.