Great Local - Kamedajima Ties
Regional products nurtured by Japan’s rich natural environments have long been cherished across the country. Behind these beloved goods lie exceptional craftsmanship and traditional techniques, fused together to create new value over time.
In this feature, we introduce Kameda-jima, a traditional textile born in the former town of Kameda , Niigata Prefecture.
Fabric Embodying the Spirit of Echigo People
Kamedajima is a durable and richly textured cotton textile that has been woven since the Edo period in Kameda-go, now part of Konan Ward in Niigata City. Each family traditionally had its own distinct stripe pattern, reflecting their unique character and history—a legacy that continues to captivate people to this day.
In the past, Kameda-go was a vast marshland. The farmers who toiled in rice cultivation there created cotton textiles that could withstand mud and water. These fabrics were born out of the harsh demands of rice farming, nurtured by the region’s deep agricultural heritage—a tradition upheld by Japan’s premier rice-growing area.
Woven tightly with cotton yarn, the fabric was exceptionally strong, able to endure long hours of outdoor labor. It was specifically designed to resist wear and tear in vulnerable areas like the hands and knees. Praised for both its durability and the beauty of its distinctive striped patterns, Kamedajima today finds new life in fashion and interior design.
Beautiful Design Rooted in Local Traditions
The color palette centers around indigo, contrasted with natural tones and white. (Indigo dye has traditionally been believed to have insect-repellent properties.) One of the key charms of Kamedajima is how the depth of the indigo grows richer over time, developing a unique character through years of use.
The intentionally unstructured lining is called "sfoderato." This results in a light, relaxed finish. It embodies traditional craftsmanship while naturally blending into modern styles without feeling formal or rigid. This item is available in limited quantities online and at our Niigata store. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of this local heritage.