Folding fans have long been considered auspicious, symbolizing "ever-increasing prosperity." They are popular as gifts for celebrations such as promotions and milestones like 60th birthdays, but their popularity as Father's Day gifts is increasing year by year. Ryuta Ohashi, a stylist for seasonal goods and accessories on the 1st floor Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building says, "The charm of folding fans is that when you fan yourself, a pleasant scent is released, which can be refreshing. In the summer, many businessmen keep them in a fan case in the inner pocket of their jacket. Folding fans create wind with the flexibility of bamboo, so the more ribs there are, the softer the breeze you can enjoy." This year, there is a wide variety of fan surface materials and colors available, so you can choose from monochrome, patterns, and colors to match your father's style.


Authentic Kyoto fans from Hakuchikudo, creating a sophisticated style .

Founded in 1718, the long-established Kyoto store Shiratakedo recommends their "hon-aizome" (authentic indigo dyeing) fans, which are dyed using a liquid dyeing method that involves fermenting natural indigo raw materials called "sukumo" and lye. Each fan has a unique dyed texture, making them popular with overseas customers as well. They pair well with denim and can be carried with casual styles. They are lightweight and have few ribs, so they create a strong breeze.

Furthermore, Shiratakedo also offers fans with cowhide leather on the fan surface, which, combined with the glossy, carved ribs, creates a very elegant finish.

Shiratakedo fan ¥10,800 View product

Shiratakedo fan ¥21,600 View product

A standard fan from Hosekken, a company with a workshop in Aoyama, Tokyo.

While Hakuchikudo offers a wide selection of traditional Kyoto fans, Hosekiken is popular for its modern sensibilities and contemporary designs. Their popular "Hand-Painted Takō Fan" features six gourds, symbolizing "good health," and dragonflies, representing "victory and positivity," with beautiful designs created by skilled painters. In particular, the "60-Rib Silk Fan (Taka Fan)," a product of Hosekiken's exceptional skill, provides a pleasant breeze even with a light fanning.

Hosekiken Hand-Painted Lucky Fan ¥13,716 View Product

A fan from Significance that's perfect for wearing with a kimono and ideal for fireworks displays.

How about a Significance leather fan for your dad as he relaxes at home? Made from thin deerskin using advanced techniques, it's as light as a paper fan, and the solid navy, green, and burgundy colors smartly complement yukata and other casual wear. It's also very popular with women.

Significance leather fan: 9,720 yen

If I were to own one, it would be a Tsugaru-nuri fan from Hosekiken.

If I were to buy just one fan for myself this season, it would be the Hosekiken Tsugaru-nuri fan. The outer ribs are coated with multiple layers of genuine lacquer, and the cross-section, which is polished and layered, uses the beautiful and substantial Tsugaru-nuri technique. The fan surface is made of high-quality silk fabric, and although the overall finish is light, it looks very elegant. I usually wear a lot of black, so I am drawn to the chic, all-black design of this fan.

Hosakaken Tsugaru lacquer fan: 24,840 yen

*All prices include tax.

Fans from Hakuchikudo and Hosekiken are also available for purchase at the Isetan online store. View product list

inquiry
Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building 1st Floor = Seasonal Goods & Accessories
03-3352-1111 (main representative)