Keep it long, treasure it long.

Gentle Sun Umbrella

The "hakusai" umbrella, reminiscent of the overlapping leaves of leafy greens, features a beautiful combination of green and light cream colors. The design of this parasol is arranged to create a lovely gradient from the base to the edge of the canopy, with varying textures depending on the color sections. It also showcases a woven pattern that resembles the wrinkles of hakusai leaves, making it a visually delightful design with thoughtful details.

"A fun umbrella to carry"
"A stylish umbrella"
"An umbrella you want to cherish"
These are the aspirations behind the creations of Makita Shoten.

Delicate Craftsmanship and Commitment

In the Fujikurok region, silk fabrics dyed with the abundant spring water from Mount Fuji have been woven for centuries. The bold and large patterns created using the clear dyeing process with Fuji's spring water and the latest electronic Jacquard weaving machines embody Makita Shoten's dedication to craftsmanship.

Founded in 1866, Makita Shoten began by selling silk fabrics in Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo. After the 1950s, with the spread of synthetic fibers, the company utilized the techniques honed in dyeing to establish itself as a major production hub for uniquely dyed umbrella fabrics. Makita Shoten also produces fabrics for Maehara Koeki Shoten, a long-established umbrella manufacturer, showcasing its 150 years of history and artisan skills in fabric creation.

The most distinctive feature of Makita Shoten's umbrellas is that they are made by a textile company, maintaining original production from fabric design and weaving to umbrella manufacturing. While preserving the spirit of traditional craftsmanship, Makita Shoten has continued to evolve with the acquisition of overseas technology and the introduction of new equipment. By using electronic Jacquard weaving machines that allow for unrestricted design, they treat the warp threads as a canvas and the weft threads as paint, resulting in umbrellas woven with various patterns.

In a domestic market where about 90% of umbrellas are imported, Makita Shoten is committed to domestic production, carefully crafting each umbrella using elegant Koshu weaving. The vibrant colors and the three-dimensional quality of the patterns create a sense of luxury, and the inside of the umbrella features an inverted pattern, allowing the user to enjoy the design as well. Additionally, the frame is constructed to match the weight, form, and fabric, achieving over 90% UV protection.

An Umbrella That Brings Joy to Everyone

The "Sai" series of sun umbrellas from Makita Shoten is designed for enjoyment under the summer sun, inspired by vegetables that thrive in the abundant sunlight. This series includes seven varieties: corn, carrot, hanamame, hakusai, purple okra, enoki, and beans. By utilizing stretch yarns that were previously unavailable for traditional umbrella fabrics, the Sai series features wavy fabric patterns, a bumpy texture, and soft-colored threads that create a gentle expression. This umbrella is a joyful companion under the sun, just like the vegetables that grow happily in its warmth.

In Japan, umbrellas are considered auspicious due to their wide-open shape, symbolizing good fortune. There is a cultural tradition where mothers gift umbrellas to their daughters as part of their wedding dowry, wishing for their future happiness. This sun umbrella is a recommended gift for women.