🕓 2024/7/20
＃文化

1. What is a Kakejiku (Hanging Scroll)?
2. Structure and Materials of a Kakejiku
3. The Process of Making a Kakejiku
4. Experiencing Kakejiku Creation
5. OEM Orders for Custom Kakejiku Production

Introduction

A kakejiku, or hanging scroll, is a traditional Japanese interior decoration that continues to captivate people with its beauty and cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of kakejiku, including its structure, materials, and the process of its creation. We will also delve into the experience of making a custom kakejiku and the possibilities of OEM orders for those interested in creating their unique designs.

This article provides a detailed explanation of the structure and materials required for kakejiku, as well as the step-by-step process of its creation. The content is designed to be accessible even to beginners, making it easy to understand the essence of this traditional Japanese art form. Through this exploration, we hope you gain a deeper appreciation of kakejiku as a symbol of Japanese aesthetics and cultural heritage.

Note: Images included in this article are for illustrative purposes only.

1. What is a Kakejiku? 

A kakejiku, or hanging scroll, is a traditional Japanese interior decoration in which calligraphy or paintings are mounted on fabric or paper. It is typically displayed in a tokonoma (alcove) and replaced according to the seasons, events, or the arrival of guests, creating a sophisticated and harmonious atmosphere within the room.

The origins of the kakejiku date back to the Asuka period, introduced to Japan along with Buddhism as religious art in the form of butga (Buddhist paintings). During the Kamakura period, with the rise of ink painting and the development of the tea ceremony, kakejiku became widely appreciated as works of art. A kakejiku comprises various parts, including the upper section (ten), the lower section (chi), and the central artwork (honshi), each carrying symbolic meaning.

Moreover, the style of mounting and the types of fabrics used in a kakejiku contribute to its diverse designs. Even today, kakejiku remains an essential decorative element in tea rooms and Japanese-style interiors, embodying the aesthetics and traditions of Japan. It is cherished as a way to express the changing seasons or personal sentiments.

2. Structure and Materials of a Kakejiku 

A kakejiku is a traditional decorative item used to display calligraphy or paintings by mounting them on fabric or paper. Its structure consists of the following components:

　■ Honshi (Main Artwork) 
The honshi is the central part of the kakejiku, where the calligraphy or painting is featured. This section is the focal point of the scroll, often showcasing Japanese poems, haiku, or wise sayings written in ink. High-quality Japanese paper (washi) or silk is commonly used for the honshi, ensuring the artwork’s longevity and enhancing its aesthetic appeal.


　■ Ten and Chi (Heaven and Earth) 
The ten (upper section) and chi (lower section) are the fabric or paper areas attached to the honshi. They serve to protect the artwork while enhancing its visual appeal. The colors and patterns of the ten and chi are carefully chosen to harmonize with the honshi, creating a balanced and cohesive appearance. The interplay between these sections is crucial for the overall aesthetic of the kakejiku.


The chumawashi surrounds the honshi on all sides, acting as a decorative border. This component enhances the overall visual impact of the kakejiku. The colors and patterns of the chumawashi are selected to complement the theme and mood of the artwork, ensuring that the kakejiku maintains its artistic balance.


　■ Futai (Hanging Straps) 

The futai are narrow strips of fabric that hang down from the upper part of the kakejiku. Originally used to protect the honshi from wind, they now serve primarily as decorative elements. The choice of colors and patterns for the futai adds a sense of movement and accent to the overall design of the scroll.


　■ Ichimonji (Decorative Strips) 
The ichimonji are narrow decorative strips of fabric placed at the top and bottom of the honshi. They often feature intricate designs and elevate the elegance and formality of the kakejiku. The materials and colors of the ichimonji are selected with great care to suit the theme or occasion of the scroll.。


　■ Jikusaki (Roller Ends) 

The jikusaki are the wooden or bamboo ends at the bottom of the scroll, allowing it to be rolled up easily for storage. These parts also serve as decorative elements, often made of luxurious materials such as ivory or lacquer. The jikusaki contribute both functionality and visual appeal, completing the scroll’s design.

3. The Process of Making a Kakejiku 

 BesPes Kakejiku Creation Services 

At BesPes, we offer fully custom-made kakejiku services tailored to your specific needs.

・Are you unsure what kind of design would suit your space?
・Do you want to create a kakejiku but don’t have a finalized design?
・Are you looking for a kakejiku that perfectly matches your room’s decor?

Consult with us!

We work closely with skilled artisans who specialize in traditional kakejiku production. From artwork creation to material selection, we can help you design a one-of-a-kind kakejiku. For more details, please visit our website.

4. Experiencing Kakejiku Creation 

　■ Scrothing Picture (Sugamo, Toshima Ward, Tokyo) 

Scrothing Picture offers a unique kakejiku creation experience in Sugamo, Toshima Ward, Tokyo. This service allows customers to create their own personalized kakejiku using their favorite images or data. Customers can provide their preferred images or designs in advance, which are then adjusted for use on kakejiku and printed on specialized washi paper. Participants can select the colors and patterns of the materials used and even create a custom digital rakkan (seal), resulting in a one-of-a-kind kakejiku.

This experience is beginner-friendly, allowing anyone to enjoy crafting a special kakejiku by hand. Additional options, such as photography and kimono rentals, are also available to enhance the experience. For those interested in creating their own kakejiku, this is an excellent opportunity to try something truly unique.​

・Source/Official Website：https://new-function.com/collaboration/scrothing-picture/

　■ Kyoto Shunju Hyogushi Workshop 

The Kyoto Shunju Hyogushi Workshop provides opportunities to tour a professional artisan’s studio and participate in hands-on experiences. Hyogushi are skilled craftsmen who create kakejiku, as well as sliding doors (fusuma) and shoji screens. Participants can observe their advanced techniques up close while crafting parts of a kakejiku themselves, gaining a deeper appreciation for the traditional craftsmanship involved.

This hands-on workshop offers a rare chance to learn directly from master artisans and create a traditional craft item with your own hands, making it a highly valuable and memorable experience.

・Source/Official Website：https://kyotoshunju.co.jp/?p=190

5. OEM Kakejiku Production 

　■ Taniguchi Shoyodo 

Taniguchi Shoyodo, a Kyoto-based manufacturer of Japanese paper products, offers original kakejiku production services. The company uses traditional washi and embossed paper to create kakejiku tailored to customers’ designs. High-precision offset printing and inkjet printing are used for the artwork, which is then processed into authentic kakejiku using domestic mounting techniques by professional artisans. This approach ensures high quality while maintaining reasonable costs and short lead times. ​

・Source/Official Website：https://www.taniguchi.co.jp/direct-order/kakeziku.html


　■ HATTORI 

HATTORI specializes in producing both traditional kakejiku and tapestry-style scrolls. They use polyester materials and inkjet printing to create kakejiku suitable for a variety of purposes, including character merchandise. Customers can choose from a wide range of options for decorative fabric (kireji) and the decorative strip (ichimonji), working closely with skilled artisans to craft a personalized product.

・Source/Official Website：https://hattoribana.co.jp/sales/item/kakejiku/

 Conclusion 

This article has provided an in-depth exploration of kakejiku, covering its basic knowledge, structure, and production process, as well as opportunities for experiencing kakejiku creation and OEM production. Kakejiku is a significant art form that embodies Japanese aesthetics and cultural heritage, continuing to be cherished by people today.

We hope this traditional art form will remain beloved by future generations and that its beauty and cultural significance will continue to be passed down for years to come.