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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 26
obi belt 26
This vintage obi belt of embroidered gold origami cranes (折鶴) against a satiny vivid orange background exudes elegance, festivity and exuberance.
The crane（鶴）motif carries profound meanings: it symbolizes longevity, marital harmony, a connection between heaven and earth, and a wish for the prosperity of future generations.
There's a Japanese saying "A crane lives for a thousand years, a turtle for ten thousand years（鶴は千年、亀は万年）" , which is why cranes are used to convey longevity well-wishes at birthdays. Once cranes couple up, they remain mates for life, hence cranes are often featured in weddings to represent an enduring bond between husband and wife.
obi belt 27
obi belt 27
This exquisite arabesque foral design featured on this ivory and silver vintage obi belt is known as Hosoukamon（宝相華文）. It is created by combining the most beautiful elements of large flowers, such as peonies and hibiscus.
The term Hosouka translates to "splendid floral design," and as the name implies, these patterns radiate elegance and luxury. Renowned for their exquisite beauty, Hosouka designs are often chosen to enhance celebratory occasions, formal banquets, and special gatherings, adding a touch of sophistication to the atmosphere.
obi belt 28
obi belt 28
This obi belt is a rare and unique piece, featuring three distinct patterns in one design, making it an exciting and versatile choice for creating one-of-a-kind cushions.
On the front, it showcases a picturesque pattern with auspicious symbols like fans (扇) and tortoise shells (亀甲), representing good fortune and longevity. The design is further enriched by depictions of gagaku (雅楽) instruments such as the biwa (琵琶) and shō (笙), historically used to provide melodious tunes to mark joyful occasions.
Adding to its charm, a vibrant gradation panel with geometric patterns interweaves through the front. The reverse side complements this with the same geometric pattern rendered in gold, exuding a sense of timeless elegance. This obi belt's harmonious blend of cultural symbolism, intricate artistry, and striking colors makes it an exceptional and visually captivating piece.
obi belt 29
obi belt 29
The Karahana (唐花) is an imaginary floral motif inspired primarily by peonies, lotuses, and chrysanthemums, celebrated for their beauty and symbolic significance.
Originating in China, the floral motif gained popularity in Japan's Heian period and became an integral element of Japanese art and fashion. Often featured in dyed and woven textiles, including noble attire and furnishings, the motif embodies elegance and refinement.
This modern interpretation of the Karahana, with its warm, muted color palette set against a burnt orange background, lends this obi belt an irresistibly charming retro aesthetic.
obi belt 30
obi belt 30
The elegant Manju-giku (饅頭菊) - a stylized chrysanthemum design - in a gradation of red, orange and pink with gold trimmings against the black embroidered background, makes this vintage obi belt outstandingly stunning and modish.
The chrysanthemum motif, also written as 万寿菊, symbolizes longevity and is widely regarded as an auspicious symbol. It is regarded as a flower of great nobility and dignity, serving as the emblem of the Japanese emperor.
In the language of flowers, chrysanthemum connotes "trust", "nobility", "integrity," and "longevity", making it an especially fitting choice for garments worn for celebratory occasions such as weddings and birthdays.
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.