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Takaokaya's "Second Life" initiative aligns closely with the Japanese concept of "Mottainai (もったいない)." "Mottainai" is a term that encapsulates the idea of regret over waste and reflects a deep respect for resources, both natural and cultural. It encourages mindful consumption and emphasizes the importance of cherishing and making the most of what one has.
By repurposing traditional Japanese heirloom garments into new products like Kangu, Takaokaya also exemplifies the spirit of "Mottainai" by preventing these valuable cultural artifacts from going to waste. Instead of allowing these garments to remain tucked away and unused, the "Second Life" service transforms them into practical and beautiful items that can be enjoyed in daily life.
Obi belts collection
Own an exclusive piece of Japanese artistry and heritage.
Select your favorite piece of vintage obi belt and let us create a charming, statement Ojami Cushion for you!
obi belt 21
obi belt 21
Adorned with 亀甲文様 (Kikkō Mon’yō) – hexagons representing tortoise shell, and 雲 (kumo) – flowing clouds, on a muted silver, gold and cream background, this vintage obi belt exudes refined and understated beauty and elegance.
Each Kikko is outlined with gold and decorated with intricate
and traditional geometric designs of Kikko, Hishi (diamonds) and Higaki (lattices), in earthy tones of bronze, maroon, and green.
The Kikko, is an auspicious Japanese emblem, symbolizing happiness and longevity. In Japanese culture, clouds symbolize fruitfulness and abundance, while Hishi represents prosperity and the Higaki wards off evil and bad luck.
obi belt 22
obi belt 22
The appeal of this obi lies in its vivid depiction of a mountain landscape, glowing in the warm, vibrant hues of a sunset. The trees on the mountain are rendered in shades of gold, creating a visually stunning and captivating scene.
Kimonos and obi belts often depict sceneries of nature, reflecting a love and appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of Japanese landscape, as well as a deep cultural connection between Man and Mother Nature.
obi belt 23
obi belt 23
Feminine and elegant, this champagne pink obi belt features a harmonized multi-colored floral arrangements of iris, peonies, chrysanthemums and wisteria.
The endless flow of the Kumihimo (cords with tassels) throughout the belt, enhanced its beauty with graceful curves, while symbolizing everlasting prosperity and blessings for future generations. It also carries the meaning of "matchmaking" and forming connections.
obi belt 24
obi belt 24
The large flowers on this obi
create a dynamic, eye-catching impression with bold colors, lending a touch of retro charm to the design. The vivid hues of the flowers stand out beautifully against the contrasting black and orange tortoise shell pattern亀甲文様 (Kikkō Mon’yō) in the background.
The floral elements within the hexagons add a touch of delicacy and refinement, representing beauty and life. The use of traditional motifs tied to nature and longevity adds layers of meaning to this obi, making it not only stunning but also deeply symbolic.
obi belt 25
obi belt 25
While the diamond pattern might appear simple, its origins run deep. The pattern is inspired by the leaves and fruit of the water chestnut, an aquatic plant known for its vitality, connoting prosperity for future generations and good health.
If you look closely, the white background of the obi is filled with woven Sayagata pattern (紗綾形), made up of interlocking 卍 (manji), an ancient buddhist symbol. The Sayagata pattern symbolizes an unending line of descendants and good fortune of the family.
Learn and experience Kutsurogi - the Japanese Art of relaxation, with your beloved Ojami Cushions. Below are some of our favorite ways to relax with the Ojami... try our ways or find your own sweet spot for relaxation with your beloved Ojami and share with us!
Seiza (Kneeling)
Agura (Cross-legged)
Back rest on the sofa
BACK Support ON Chair
Unlike ordinary cushions, the Ojami is designed to be three-dimensional and is hand-stuffed with cotton by our craftsmen to ensure greater volume and fluffiness all over. The Ojami Cushion, being thicker, helps to elevate the bottom so you can sit more comfortably and relax.
To prevent the Ojami from going flat easily and to give support for a good sitting posture naturally, we created a three-layer structured inner filling. We selected a special urethane which is used as the core, which is then wrapped with a cotton pad, to create exquisite firmness and thickness.
Middle stitches are applied to the center of the cushions to keep the cotton filling in place. The contours achieved by this stitch, naturally take the form of your body when you sit or lie down on the Ojami, to provide absolute comfort and rest.