Watabun, a long-established Nishijin textile company in Kyoto｜Proposing a new form of obi

Many people may think of Nishijin textiles when they think of kimono.

Nishijin brocade is the generic name for “yarn-dyed patterned fabrics produced in Kyoto (Nishijin), which are characterized by high-mix, low-volume production,” and is designated as a “traditional craft” by the Japanese government.

Wabun is one of such long-established Nishijin textile makers. Watabun has been weaving sashes in a wide variety in small quantities using high-grade silk fabrics nurtured by superior design in addition to the refinement of advanced techniques accumulated over the ages. Here are some of the charms of Watabun.

What is Watabun?

Watabun was founded in 1907 by Bunshichi Watanabe. We continue to make obis by applying the best techniques to high-quality materials and superior designs.

At a time when craftsmen were weaving by hand, Watabun was one of the first to introduce power looms and weave black satin obis, the fashion of the time. Lightweight and easy to tie, Watabun obis do not tire easily even when tied for long periods of time, and they enhance the beauty and suppleness of the kimono wearer’s gestures.

Watabun’s Business

Watabun’s main business is to make Nishijin textile belts that enhance the beauty of Japanese women. At the same time, based on its extensive experience and knowledge of silk, Watabun has developed the “first silk” skincare brand that takes advantage of the beneficial properties of silk on the skin.

Furthermore, the company utilizes its expertise in Nishijin textiles to manufacture formal neckties and develop fabric products. We also manufacture and sell accessories made without being bound by the genres of weaving, dyeing, and techniques.

Fashion Business – “Obi” woven with traditional techniques and beauty

From Watabun’s official website

For more than 100 years, our weavers have been preserving traditional techniques while striving for technical innovation and introducing the latest weaving machines to continue to produce the appeal of Watabun’s “obi.

Watabun’s obis have received numerous awards, including the Prime Minister’s Prize and the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Prize at the Nishijin Textile Convention, which promotes the traditional techniques and beauty of Nishijin textiles.

In addition, Watabun is also making efforts to preserve and pass on the art of Noh through projects such as the restoration of Noh costumes owned by the Katayama family of the Kanze school.

first silk – a new brand that gives form to the wonderful power of silk

From Watabun’s official website

First silk” is a new challenge for the traditional craft of Kyoto Nishijin textiles, a new concept of domestic natural material body towel “Kibiso Skin Friendship Wanaricchi” developed to preserve the tradition and pass it on to future generations.

Kibiso” refers to the first thread at the beginning of the cocoon.

Kibiso” contains a rich moisturizing ingredient called “sericin,” which has the power to keep people’s skin in good condition.

Sericin is a protein found in silk that is similar to that found in human skin, and it slowly dissolves in hot water. It is superior to collagen in its ability to absorb and retain moisture, and has the effect of suppressing the action of active oxygen and preventing skin dryness and damage from ultraviolet rays.

first silk offers not only body towels but also additive-free, handmade silk soap. With its glossy luster and smooth texture, you will experience a comfortable feel on the skin, good lather, and a moist wash.

Interior fabric custom-made – Decorate your room with your favorite patterns

From Watabun official website

Interior fabrics made of Nishijin brocade fabrics, using the weaving techniques cultivated through the weaving of obi fabrics. We make proposals according to customers’ tastes, from traditional Japanese spaces to contemporary spaces.

We create tapestries, art panels, table runners, and other items using unique Nishijin-ori fabrics. The patterns include scenes found in nature such as the moon and water surfaces, and karesansui (dry landscape garden), a symbol of Japanese style, to delight the viewer. They are also well received at exhibitions overseas.

Watabun a la carte – Small items that evoke a sense of harmony

From Watabun official Facebook

Watabun’s knick-knacks are made without being bound by the genres of weaving, dyeing, and techniques. We offer a variety of goods that are indispensable for daily life and wonderful goods that you will want to show off to someone.

They can also be the perfect gift for a loved one or a souvenir.

Summary

Nishijin brocade is a high-grade silk fabric cultivated in Kyoto. It is a yarn-dyed patterned fabric based on a high-mix, low-volume production system.

Watabun not only weaves Nishijin-ori obi, but also restores Noh costumes. We invite you to take a look at Watabun’s products, which preserve and develop traditions and pass them on to the next generation, based on the wealth of knowledge and experience in silk inherited from our predecessors.

Watabun official website
Watabun Official Online Shop