EMBROIDERED INK
hyottoko
The Hyottoko mask, with its comical, puckered mouth and playful expression, has roots in Japanese folklore and is believed by some to trace back to the legend of Hyoutokusu; a boy born with a strange, contorted face and a unique ability – he could create gold from his belly button! Outside of the Iwate Prefecture, Hyottoko is said to depict a simpleton who was tasked with blowing the flames to maintain the communal fire, resulting in his face becoming permanently distorted. The word “Hyottoko” combines the words hyo, meaning "fire," and otoko, meaning "man.”
Either way, the character Hyottoko has since become associated with humor, good fortune and prosperity, and the mask remains popular at festivals, bringing joy and laughter to those who see it.
KOINOBORI
The koinobori is a traditional Japanese windsock or kite shaped like a carp, flown to celebrate Children's Day (originally the Boys' festival) on May 5th. In Japanese culture, the carp symbolizes courage and strength—with families traditionally flying koinobori to honor their sons. Families hoist these colorful kites on poles outside their homes, with each kite representing a family member: the largest carp, often black, symbolizes the father, while the red carp represents the mother. The smaller carp symbolize the children in the family. This arrangement signifies the unity of the family, as the carp swim together harmoniously.
Revered for its determination and ability to swim upstream against powerful currents, the carp represents perseverance, strength, and the ability to overcome obstacles, qualities that hold great value in Japanese culture.
