Japanese traditional materials and craftsmanship, reimagined for contemporary style.

This bamboo bag brings together distinctly Japanese materials and artisanal techniques in a contemporary design.

The front is crafted from deep black Washi Tatami, featuring a powerful monochrome DARUMA motif rendered in intricate embroidery.

The silver, white, and black embroidery creates a striking contrast against the refined texture of the Washi Tatami, transforming the traditional Japanese Daruma into a modern and sophisticated expression.

In Japan, the Daruma has long been regarded as a symbol of the spirit of “fall seven times, rise eight” (Nanakorobi Yaoki). It represents perseverance, resilience, and the determination to continue moving toward one’s goals, and is traditionally associated with wishes for success and fulfillment.

Washi Tatami — A Unique Japanese Material

This bag incorporates Washi Tatami, a material actually used as an architectural and interior material in Japanese homes, hotels, and other spaces.

Made from coated and woven washi paper, it offers excellent durability and water resistance compared with traditional igusa rush tatami. It is also designed to help inhibit mold and the proliferation of dust mites. Its surface resists the absorption of moisture and dirt, making it easier to maintain its beautiful appearance.

Tatami has long been an essential element of traditional Japanese living spaces. RAKUHOKU JAPAN brings this heritage material into contemporary life by transforming it into a modern bag.

The delicate weave and distinctive texture of Washi Tatami become part of the design itself, while its practical qualities are incorporated into an item designed for everyday use.

The sides are crafted from Nishijin textile, carrying on Kyoto’s centuries-old textile tradition. In contrast to the monochrome front, its intricate patterns and colors add richness and visual depth to the bag.

Nishijin textile is also used for the interior, which features one inner pocket. Even when the bag is opened, the beautiful craftsmanship and decorative character of Nishijin textile can be enjoyed.

The back presents an entirely different expression from the front.

It is crafted from a thinly processed veneer of natural wood and carefully finished with specially selected, high-quality urushi lacquer.

The urushi enhances the natural beauty of the wood grain, creating depth, warmth, and a refined, understated luster. The appearance of the natural wood and urushi subtly changes depending on the light and viewing angle, revealing different expressions of the material.

The handle is made from natural bamboo.

DARUMA embroidery. Washi Tatami. Nishijin textile. Natural wood. Urushi lacquer. Bamboo.

Different Japanese materials and techniques come together in a single piece, individually and carefully crafted by artisans in Kyoto.

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Materials & Details

* Front: Black Washi Tatami / DARUMA embroidery
* Sides: Nishijin textile
* Interior: Nishijin textile
* One inner pocket
* Back: Natural wood veneer / specially selected high-quality urushi lacquer finish
* Handle: Natural bamboo
* Metal hardware
* Made in Kyoto, Japan

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Size & Weight

* Width: Approx. 34 cm / 13.4 in
* Height: Approx. 26.5 cm / 10.4 in
* Depth: Approx. 16 cm / 6.3 in
* Weight: Approx. 880 g / 1.94 lb

With a substantial depth of approximately 16 cm / 6.3 in, the bag combines a distinctive, sculptural presence with practical storage capacity.

Different materials are used on the front, sides, and back, creating a design whose character changes dramatically depending on the viewing angle.

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About the Materials

This piece combines a variety of materials and techniques, including Washi Tatami, Nishijin textile, natural bamboo, and embroidery.

The woven texture and appearance of Washi Tatami may subtly change depending on the angle and lighting.

As a natural material, bamboo varies from piece to piece in color, shape, nodes, grain, and surface texture.

The placement of Nishijin textile patterns and the finish of the embroidery may also vary slightly from one piece to another.

These variations are inherent characteristics of natural materials and handcrafted production. We invite you to appreciate them as part of the unique character of each individual bag.

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Care Instructions

* Avoid prolonged storage in direct sunlight or in hot and humid environments.
* Take care to protect the bag from water and rain. If it becomes wet, gently remove moisture with a soft, dry cloth and allow it to air-dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.
* Avoid strong impacts, excessive pressure, and contact with sharp objects, as these may damage the embroidery, Washi Tatami, Nishijin textile, or natural bamboo.
* Take particular care to avoid snagging or excessive friction on embroidered and Nishijin textile areas.
* Natural bamboo may gradually change in color and texture over time. Please enjoy this as part of the natural aging process of the material.
* When not in use, store the bag in a dry, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight.

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Made to Order & Delivery Time

This item is currently made to order.

Each piece is individually crafted after your order is placed. Please allow approximately two months for production and delivery.

If an item is available for immediate purchase, the product page will indicate “In Stock.”

Please note that the estimated delivery time may vary slightly depending on the production schedule.

Made in Kyoto, Japan