The Kenema Tenugui Modern Tableware is a traditional Japanese hand-dyed cloth that features a charming design of everyday tableware arranged with a modern sensibility. The motifs include cups, bowls, and chopsticks, depicted with clean lines and a fresh layout that bridges the gap between traditional culture and contemporary aesthetics.

Each piece is crafted using the chū-sen dyeing method, a time-honored technique that involves hand-pouring dye through stencil patterns. This results in soft, reversible patterns with natural variations in tone—making every cloth subtly unique. While these Tenugui can be used functionally as towels or wraps, many choose to display them as interior décor for their artistry and cultural relevance.

Kenema Tenugui aren’t just textiles—they’re living representations of Japanese craftsmanship and tradition. Whether used daily or hung on the wall, they bring warmth, creativity, and a piece of Japanese heritage into your space.

What Is Tenugui? 

The oldest Tenugui was found in an ancient tomb dating back to AD 300. It became popular among the common people when samurais started using Tenugui under their kabuto (helmets) to absorb sweat from the Kamakura period to the Edo period. During the Edo period, Tenugui gained widespread popularity, and people became interested in their designs. Women used them to wrap their hair, Kabuki actors and sumo wrestlers made personalized Tenugui as business cards, and samurais used them to wrap their swords. Tenugui remains a beloved part of traditional Japanese culture and is still appreciated today.

How To Use Tenugui

Tenugui can be used in many different ways. Here are some suggestions:

• Use as a towel, cover, or bandana.
• Use to wrap items such as glass bottles.
• Use to wrap greeting cards or presents.
• Hang on the wall as an interior decoration.
• Use as a sheet when having a picnic outdoors.

Care Instructions For Tenugui

The cloth becomes softer the more you use it, and water absorption also improves. 

The ends of Tenugui are not sewn, allowing them to dry easily and quickly when hung (it is recommended not to use a dryer). 

Because Tenugui can become discolored easily, please wash your hands often when first handling a Tenugui. 

Use the Tenugui only after it has completely dried.

Details

• Size: Approx. 33 x 90 cm
• Material: 100% cotton
• Note: ChÅ«-sen dyeing is mainly done by hand and is a technique that is prone to bleeding and unevenness, so please enjoy it as a unique style.
• Made in Japan