About Bon Kyoto
Founded in the Japanese cultural capital Kyoto in 1984, we have been the pioneer to create various fashion items and interior accessories by utilizing beautiful antique kimono. Here, we would like to introduce you the history and the values of Bon Kyoto.
Fascinated by antique silk
When we started in 1984, we were simply fascinated by the beauty of antique kimono and the power of this fabric. Kimonos of 100 years ago have deepened their colors as the time went by, and we believe that the feel of very delicate silk is something only inherited in such antique kimonos. We also find it very interesting to learn from the pattern drawn in the kimono as it often reflects the trend and custom of that time.
Where we create, we are surrounded by the full of such beautiful kimono fabrics, and it is always the source of ideas as well.
Reuse and Recycling…. daily life of Japan
Just until several decades ago, it was a part of daily life in Japan to re-use and re-cycle various kinds of goods, and kimono was one of the most common items for such usage. Formal kimonos have been preserved for daughters and grand-daughters over generations. Casual kimonos were re-sized for kids. Even after a kimono gets worn out, it was torn to long narrow pieces like strings, and woven to be used for items such as Obi belt.
When we obtain antique kimonos, some are too small to wear, and others may have holes, but they are absolutely beautiful. We simply want to have as many people as possible know and enjoy this fascinating fabric. Thus, we design and create products so that people can enjoy in the today’s life. The shape may change from kimono to something else, but the soul will remain. Of course, we use up all the pieces of fabric from kimono because that’s what we have learned from our own ancient times.
Sensibility of Kyoto
We are very fortunate to locate ourselves in Kyoto, one of the few cities in the world where the history and culture for over 1200 years still exist. As the same temple garden looks different depending on the season you visit, people in Kyoto have always enjoyed incorporating seasons into our daily life. Even though the lifestyle itself has changed over the history, the sensibility of Kyoto certainly exists in ourselves.
It is our pleasure if we could have you enjoy the sensibility of Kyoto with our products made in Kyoto.
