Origin of the name
If you know a little about history, when you hear "Sanada Himo," you'll probably think of "Sanada Yukimura."
There are various theories about the origin of the name,
This time, I will tell you about one of them, as well as its history and development.
Sanada Yukimura and Sanada Himo
One theory suggests that Sanada Himo is named after Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige), a famous general of the Sengoku period.
Sanada Yukimura is known for his exceptional tactics and bravery. His valor during the Winter and Summer Sieges of Osaka is still spoken of today.
However, "Sanada Himo" had not yet been created at that time.
The Edo Period and Sanada Himo
The Edo period began with the end of the Sengoku period.
At that time, Sanada Yukimura, who was defeated in the Battle of Sekigahara, which divided the country, was imprisoned with his father Masayuki in Kudoyama-cho, Wakayama Prefecture.
The Sanada father and son were not allowed to leave Kudoyama-cho,
Instead, their retainers traveled all over the country to gather information.
It is said that "Sanada Himo" was used as a peddler's item at that time.
At that time, it wasn't called by that name.
It was probably envisioned as a thin, flat-woven textile, a sturdy cord.
Eventually, the "Winter and Summer Sieges of Osaka" arrived,
Sanada Yukimura fought bravely, but met his end in the Summer Siege.
It is said that Yukimura's heroic figure and the sturdy cord somehow overlapped,
And it began to be called "the strong cord made by Sanada,"
And that it then became "Sanada Himo."
Kojima and Sanada Himo
Sanada Himo was introduced to Kojima during the Edo period.
It's unclear whether it was spread by Sanada's vassals as a peddled item, but
During the Edo period, when "Ryōmairi" (a pilgrimage to both Konpira-san in Kagawa Prefecture and Yuga Daigongen in Kojima, Okayama Prefecture) became popular,
It is recorded in the "Konpira Sankei Meisho Zue" that the approach to the shrine was bustling with travelers buying Sanada Himo as souvenirs.
During the Edo period, cotton cultivation flourished in Kojima.
Sanada Himo was made from locally grown cotton,
The technique continued to evolve,
Leading to the present-day "textile town of Kojima."
Sanada Himo in the Future
Today, Sanada Himo is widely used in daily life.
It is utilized in bracelets, bags, interior items, and more,
It is also well-regarded for obi designs and accents.
The beauty and practicality of Sanada Himo are appreciated not only in Japan but also overseas.
Sanada Himo from Kojima has a long history of about 400 years,
It is highly regarded as a traditional Japanese craft for its durability and beauty.
By learning about the history and charm of Sanada Himo, you can deepen your understanding of traditional Japanese culture and
Rediscover its beauty.
Sanada Himo will continue to preserve its history and tradition while adding new color to modern life.
There will be an event featuring items made with Sanada Himo.
We would like to invite you.
Date: Wednesday, July 17, 2024 - Tuesday, February 23, 2024
10:00 - 19:30
Location: Tenmaya Okayama Store, 5th floor
You will see a variety of "Okayama Fashion Styles" made with local textiles such as Sanada Himo, denim, and tatami-beri.
Please feel free to come.
