Discover the story of Gunnai textiles and Kai silk, through centuries of textile production from the foothills of Mt Fuji, in this booth display at Japan House London.
Weaving began as a supplementary occupation in the Gunnai region, located in the northern foothills of Mt Fuji in eastern Yamanashi Prefecture, where volcanic ash and cold mountain conditions made farming difficult. In 1633, the Akimoto clan gained control of the area and promoted textile production. To differentiate their products from those of neighbouring regions, they refined their techniques, helping the area develop into a centre for high-quality woven fabrics.
Silks from Kai Province (present-day Yamanashi), known as Kai silk (Kaiki), were originally made by copying imported textiles from European merchant ships. They were used for linings for haori jackets worn over kimono, and for other garments and everyday items. Following the shift to European-style clothing, demand declined, and production ceased in the 1940s.
After World War II, the region’s manufacturers adapted their processes by applying their expertise in fine, high-density silk weaving to new materials and products suited to modern times. In recent years, projects have appeared aiming to recreate the lost technologies of Kai silk.
Photos of the Gunnai Textiles and Kai Silk display at Japan House London
Photos of the Gunnai Textiles and Kai Silk display at Japan House London: a gallery of 4 items.
With support from Yamanashi Industrial Technology Centre/ Fujisan Museum / Takasuka Katsura / Kaikiza.