About
In the heart of Kyoto's bustling Nakagyo Ward, where the whispers of history intertwine with the pulse of modern life, stands a sanctuary of tradition and artistry—the Hosotsuji Ihee Museum. This establishment, bearing the name of the esteemed 14th-generation head of the Eirakuya lineage, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Japan's oldest cotton merchant, whose roots trace back over four centuries to the year 1615.
As one approaches the museum, the façade immediately captivates. The exterior gleams with copper panels, meticulously crafted using the traditional "ichimonji-buki" technique, reminiscent of the venerable roofs adorning Kyoto's ancient temples and shrines. This choice of material is not merely aesthetic; it is a deliberate nod to the passage of time, as the copper will gracefully patinate, evolving into a verdant green, echoing the city's ever-changing yet timeless spirit.
Stepping inside, the air is imbued with a sense of reverence. The walls, adorned with pristine white fabric, are not mere decorations but are crafted from the very same bleached cloth used in the creation of tenugui—traditional Japanese hand towels. This subtle detail envelops visitors in the essence of the museum's core, bridging the gap between art and utility.
The first floor unfolds as a gallery of time, where tenugui from the Edo, Meiji, Taisho, Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras are displayed. Each piece is a canvas, capturing the zeitgeist of its time. One might find a tenugui from the Showa period, depicting a young couple in an open-top automobile, the wind playfully tousling their hair—a reflection of Japan's embrace of modernity. Another might showcase the delicate cherry blossoms of Kyoto, rendered with such finesse that one can almost feel the petals drifting through the air.
Ascending to the second floor, the narrative deepens. Here, the lineage of the Hosotsuji family is chronicled, with artifacts and documents that tell tales of resilience, innovation, and unwavering dedication to the craft. Among these treasures is a fukusa—a ceremonial cloth—bearing the "Settei Suikinzu" design, a masterpiece once held by the family and now a designated Important Cultural Property. This piece serves as a bridge, connecting the family's personal history to the broader tapestry of Japanese art.
The museum's commitment to sustainability and innovation is evident in its unique admission ticket—a tenugui itself. Crafted from the original "Juyonsei" cotton fabric, developed by the current head, and dyed using the kata-yuzen technique, this ticket is not just a pass but a keepsake, encouraging visitors to integrate a piece of history into their daily lives.
Beyond the exhibits, the museum houses a shop where visitors can acquire tenugui, furoshiki (wrapping cloths), and other textiles, each bearing designs that marry tradition with contemporary aesthetics. These items are not mere souvenirs but embodiments of a living tradition, inviting one to partake in a legacy that has been meticulously preserved and reimagined.
In this space, the past and present converge, offering a profound appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of tenugui. The Hosotsuji Ihee Museum stands as a beacon, illuminating the intricate patterns of history, art, and daily life, and inviting all who enter to weave their own threads into this enduring fabric.