2026: The Lunar Year of the Horse!
As every year, we are celebrating the new zodiac sign with a limited-edition Furoshiki collection inspired by the Lunar calendar. For 2026, the spotlight is on the Horse!
This launch is also a wonderful opportunity to explore the sacred symbolism of horses in Japan and the folklore surrounding them.
Our 2026 collection features the shinme (sacred horse). Since ancient times in Japan, horses have been revered as the divine vehicles of the gods. They were dedicated to shrines or appeared in rituals as a way to carry prayers. While there are no strict rules about their appearance, white horses have traditionally been seen as the most sacred, symbolizing purity and spirituality.
Throughout ancient Japan, horses and horse-shaped ornaments were cherished as symbols of good fortune.
For our Hare Tsutsumi Horse Furoshiki (70cm), we drew special inspiration from the folk toys of Akita Prefecture.
This design takes inspiration from traditional crafts of Semboku City, Akita Prefecture, specifically the Itaya weaving craft (Itaya-zaiku). The motif is based on a horse toy made from thinly split strips of Itaya maple wood, carefully woven together. By combining different shades of the woven maple, a variety of patterns can be created.
In this design, the sacred white and golden horses are set against a red background to further enhance the celebratory and auspicious feeling.
Our 50 Shiki no Irodori Horse, Calendar Red design is inspired by a patchwork of traditional toys from different regions of Japan. Carrying the auspicious symbolism of the horse, it is meant to bring you good fortune throughout the year.
The Japanese phrase 馬九行久 (Umaku Iku) is a play on words using the character for horse (馬, uma) and the phrase “umaku iku,” which means ”everything goes well.” (A horse knows well.)
This furoshiki design was inspired by that wordplay, carrying a wish for good fortune.
This furoshiki design was inspired by that wordplay, carrying a wish for good fortune.
The horse silhouettes are based on traditional local toys and crafts. The Shinme (sacred horse offered to the gods) in the bottom right corner is thoughtfully positioned so that it appears beautifully whether the cloth is spread out, wrapped, or folded.
June
Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture.
They are considered lucky charms, meant to wish for health and long life.
August
Miharu Town, Fukushima Prefecture.
A folk toy that has been made since the Edo period, it carries the wish for children’s healthy growth and well-being.
November
Kashima City, Saga Prefecture
The doll depicts a heavenly horse (tenma) carrying a sacred jewel, soaring through the sky to ward off misfortune. It has long been valued as a charm for protection and good luck.