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↑ The special bump pattern of Tango crepe.

Tango crepe weave has a history of approximately 300 years, extending from the middle of the Edo era. The pattern that can be seen on the left, produced by horizontal contraction caused by a process applied after weaving, is one of the special features of Tango crepe. Because of this pattern, crepe does not easily wrinkle, has a soft texture, and produces interesting, deep patterns when dyed. It is made of a weave of untwisted vertical threads interwoven with horizontal threads twisted approximately 300 times over the distance of one meter. After weaving, the threads are processed and contract and the twist of the horizontal thread is reinforced, producing the fine bumps in the surface of the material. This texture is the most notable feature of Tango crepe, the most well-known of the crepe weaves.

The word "crepe" generally conjures up an image of silk, but Tango applies crepe weaves to other fibers such as polyester and rayon. Isshiki Crepe produces every-day Tango crepe items you can use and wash. Because they use durable and elegant polyester, they are delicate like silk yet can be washed normally. The way they breathe and absorb moisture also makes them great for every-day use. Made using traditional production techniques, and carefully checked by the manufacturers. It goes without saying that everything, from the creation of the materials to the processing, is performed in Japan. The Isshiki Crepe building in Tango

A new design with a tie opening. A small, stylish bag that you can use with a Japanese outfit, a Western outfit, or any way you like. Size (approx.): W44cm x H31cm x diameter 17cm

An old-fashioned triangular bag with a beautiful combination of patterns. The shape of the base has been carefully designed to allow it to fit more than a traditional triangular bag. Size (approx.): W45cm x H55cm

Height 54cm x Length 60cm, cord length 100cm Height 15cm x Length 26cm x Depth 12cm Height 24cm x Length 33cm x Depth 7.5cm Height 20cm x Length 18cm x Depth 6cm

The Tango peninsula in Kyoto, famous for Amanohashidate--one of Japan's top three views--produces a variety of textiles such as pre-dyed fabrics and wisteria-cloth, with Tango crepe being the primary product. The Tango region developed its own unique culture early on, being a meeting point of the Yamato and Izumo cultures of old Japan. Approximately 1200 years ago it presented a silk fabric called "Ashiginu" to Emperor Shoumu in the Tenpyou era, and this is still preserved in the Shousouin treasure house in Nara. From that point on, owing to the climate and topography being perfectly suited to silk textile production, it became the special product of the region. This lead to the production of Tango crepe beginning in the middle of the Edo period.

Amanohashidate, one of Japan's top three views.

Tango crepe gained the special bumps it has today and fully realized its silken texture and feel around 280 years ago, in the fifth year of the Kyouhou era (1720). A silk weaver named Kinuya Saheiji (who later changed his name to Morita Jiroubei) living in Mineyama became an apprentice to a Kyoto Nishijin weaver and learned and researched weaving methods, threads and the means of producing the bumps. He brought these secret techniques back to Tango, began to produce crepe there, and laid the foundations for the creation of the Tango crepe of today. Tango was a center of silk weaving, so the propagation of crepe-making techniques was rapid. The policies of the governors of Mineyama, led to a variety of crepe being produced in the Tango area, and it became the great producer it is today. Until recently, white crepe for kimonos was the most popular product, but recently a variety of dyed items such as accessories and pieces for interior decoration are being made.

The beautiful sunset over Tango peninsula.