Introduction
You might have seen it in an anime—when it starts pouring out of nowhere, and the characters magically pull out umbrellas. Well, that's not just fantasy; it's a slice of real-life Japan!
The Umbrella’s Tale
Umbrellas, or 'kasa' in Japanese, were introduced to Japan from China about 1,500 years ago. The first Japanese-style folding umbrellas appeared in the 16th century.
Initially a symbol of status used only by the aristocracy, umbrellas became a common item for the general populace in the 17th century during the Edo Period. They also found a place in traditional Japanese theater, like Kabuki, where they were used as props and symbols in performances.
The umbrella's evolution continued through the Meiji Restoration, with the introduction of Western-style umbrellas in the early 1880s. Mass production quickly made umbrellas a common accessory, ensuring that everyone could stay dry and stylish, regardless of their social standing.
The Clear Umbrella Phenomenon
Today, the most visible umbrellas in Japan are the clear, plastic ones, known for their affordability and availability. These vinyl umbrellas became popular in the 1950s and have been a staple ever since.
Simple yet effective, these umbrellas are ideal for handling Japan’s sudden downpours, ensuring everyone stays dry without spending a fortune.
Single-Press Umbrellas and More!
Innovation in umbrella design continues to impress.
Take collapsible umbrellas, for example—they're a hit for their handy size and ease of use, featuring a "jump" mechanism that allows them to open with a single button press.
Plus, some even show off 'kawaii' (cuteness) patterns when it rains, showcasing a blend of style and practicality that’s distinctly Japanese!
Eco-Friendly Umbrella Rentals in Tokyo
Umbrellas are a staple in Japan, a country known for its sudden and frequent rainfalls. Recognizing the need for a more sustainable approach to this everyday essential, Japan has innovated with services like "Ikasa," an umbrella rental and sharing system initiated in Tokyo.
This service provides an eco-friendly alternative to the single-use, disposable umbrellas that often end up in landfills.
Strategically placed at various convenient locations such as train stations and shopping centers, Ikasa stations allow users to rent umbrellas when needed and return them to any station in the network.
The process is streamlined through an easy-to-use app, making it not only a green choice but also a highly convenient one for urban commuters and visitors alike.
Umbrella Culture and Social Etiquette
Umbrellas in Japan are more than just tools to keep dry; they're part of the cultural and social etiquette. You'll often see entire racks of umbrellas outside businesses, where customers can store them temporarily. This highlights the deep-seated cultural trust Japan is known for (although, admittedly, umbrellas sometimes do get stolen).
What's more, many use umbrellas as a way to express themselves, sporting unique designs or DIY decorations intended to deter thieves or simply to stand out from the crowd.
Are You Rain-Ready?
The umbrella culture in Japan has inspired a range of uniquely Japanese designs that are perfect for making a splash on rainy days. Local retailers are excited to offer these exclusive Japanese products to enthusiastic shoppers like you.
With over 5 million Japanese items available, ZenPlus connects you with over 3,000 local sellers, making it easy to add all your favorites to one cart and have them quickly delivered right to your doorstep.
Gorgeous umbrella designs are just the beginning—there’s so much more to discover!
Think of any product you've ever dreamed of getting from Japan, type it into the search bar, and start filling up that massive virtual cart. Once you hit 'order', the ZenPlus team, with their decade of expertise, will carefully pack up your goodies and send them off for a quick and safe journey right to your front door.
So, why wait for a flight to Tokyo when you can bring Tokyo to your doorstep?
