Summer in Japan can be brutal! In recent years, many in Japan have started using summertime parasols to protect themselves from the heat and harsh rays of the sun. And when it isn’t hot, it’s probably raining, further bringing down the mood! That's why everyone needs a stylish, elegant umbrella. In this article, we’ll be introducing 10 Japanese umbrellas that are beautifully designed, highly functional, and easy to use. We will also be scoring them based on price, usefulness, and other factors, to help you choose which one is best suited to your needs.
1. Gentleman's Long Umbrella | MAEHARA KOEI SHOTEN
Score: ★★★★★
This umbrella is the work of Maehara Koei Shoten, a company founded in 1948 in Tokyo which specializes in developing umbrellas made from high-quality natural materials like silk and wood. Today, they are one of Japan’s most famous umbrella manufacturers, with their products being adored by many high-profile people, including members of the Imperial Household.
This particular umbrella has the perfect size-to-weight ratio, and features 16 carbon ribs that make it especially durable. Combine that with the exquisitely textured, sophisticated oak handle and chic coloring and you end up with an item pairing perfectly with any fashion!
2. Cool Lemon Samurai Katana Master Sword Hilt Handle Folding Umbrella, Black Glue Anti UV, Business Birthday Gift for Men
Score: ★★★★☆
Those who like the idea of a katana-shaped umbrella will greatly enjoy this item. This folding umbrella features an even more realistic-looking handle and a samurai family crest (an important symbol of dignity for samurai families) to give it that extra authentic look. The fabric is high-density PG cloth, which requires only a few shakes to dry off.
The umbrella also comes with a full money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with your purchase or if the item arrives damaged.
3. Origin Gentleman's Umbrella | MAEHARA KOEI SHOTEN
This is hands down the most luxurious—and expensive—umbrella on this list. Made by the aforementioned Maehara Koei shoten, which is the official purveyor of umbrellas to the Imperial Household, this classic umbrella is a statement piece that is a salute to the late nineteenth century, when victorian culture spread to Japan.
The wooden shaft was made by reviving an old technique called "yakifu," which prevents warping, and many fine details can be found throughout the umbrella such as the 100% silk fabric, crested handle, and tip made from a water buffalo horn.
4. HangWang Umbrella Spiral Galaxy Travel Golf Sun Rain Windproof Umbrellas with UV Protection
Score: ★★★★☆
The design of this umbrella is inspired by the patterns of traditional Japanese fans. Thanks to the Teflon coating that blocks 95% of UV rays and keeps water away, the umbrella can be used on both rainy and sunny days. The coating also makes it dirt-resistant.
In addition, the handle also uses rubber to increase grip, and thanks to the handy strap, you can easily carry the umbrella with you on your finger and store it on a hook.
5. PARASOL STAR BLUE | WASHINO PRINT FACTORY | HAND PRINTING
Score: ★★★★☆
This parasol is the work of Washino Dyeing Factory, a traditional business founded in 1967 in Kyoto that specializes in the dyeing of fabric for umbrellas, clothing, swimwear, and bags.
The company uses the “tenassen” printing technique whereby each color is carefully applied one at a time by hand. This results in exquisite patterns that simply can’t be replicated by machines. This item only works as a parasol but on a scorching day, you’ll be more than glad to have it!
6. Traditional Gentleman's Umbrella | MAEHARA KOEI SHOTEN
Score: ★★★★★
The design of this umbrella gives the fabric a distinctive valley drop effect between each rib of the umbrella that gives it an attractive curvy appearance. If you're after a Japanese umbrella that is particularly stylish, this is a great option.
As with all Maehara Koei umbrellas, the quality of the umbrella's construction is outstanding and will last for many years.
7. KTSWP Rain Windproof Umbrella Japanese Style Women Clear Sun Umbrella UV Protection Large Folding Umbrella Female UPF50+
Score: ★★★★☆
This elegant folding umbrella features a pleasing flower petal design. Opening at just the push of a button, it’s also very easy to use. It also boasts a framework made from fiberglass, which is a highly resilient yet flexible mixture of glass fibers and plastic. That’s why, even if the umbrella gets flipped inside out, you’ll be able to quickly fix it without any damage.
8. Trad 16-rib Umbrella | MAEHARA KOEI SHOTEN
Score: ★★★★★
This is a performance umbrella by Maehara Koei Shoten that weighs just 280 grams thanks to its lightweight construction. It has the perfect size-to-weight ratio, and features 16 carbon ribs that make it especially durable.
The umbrella is a redesign of a longtime favorite umbrella by fans of the brand and comes in a variety of colors and a maple or bamboo handle.
9. GENTLEMAN UMBRELLA DICE FOLDING (BROWN)
Score: ★★★★☆
Featuring a reduced weight and size along with a smooth opening mechanism, this classy folding umbrella is another work of Maehara Koei Shoten. The sewing on this piece is the work of master craftspeople and is perfect down to the millimeter, so you can open and close the umbrella hundreds of times without damaging the fabric.
The classy yet warm coloring is another highlight - open it on a gloomy day and see if it doesn’t lift your spirits!
10. Cotton White Ladies Parasol | MAEHARA KOEI SHOTEN
Score: ★★★★★
Another beautifully-crafted piece from Maehara Koei Shoten in Tokyo, this ladies parasol is made with a 100% cotton weave that lends it a natural and classy look. In addition, the solid maple handle is shaped like large ring, providing multiple ways to hold on to it. Parasols are popular in Japan on hot days for keeping the sun off your skin, and they can really help keep you cool.
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*These products may not be able to be shipped to certain countries. Please see the retailer's website for more information.
The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.