The Everyday Elegance of the Handkerchief in Japan
I traveled to Tokyo in 2019 and was in love with the petite textiles there. Here I am wearing a traditional Japanese hankie as a scarf. This is a popular design you may find in many colors, and still created today!
In Japan, small personal textiles like handkerchiefs, hand towels, finger towels, and scarves are more than just practical accessories—they are a cultural staple. Walk into any department store, boutique, or convenience store, and you’ll find an array of beautifully designed cloths in a stunning variety of colors, patterns, and textures. Unlike in many Western countries, where handkerchiefs have mostly faded from daily use, Japan has preserved and even elevated their role in everyday life.
Handkerchiefs: A Daily Essential
Carrying a handkerchief (ハンカチ, hankachi) is a common habit in Japan, not just for practical reasons but as a sign of good etiquette. Unlike Western traditions where handkerchiefs were primarily for blowing one’s nose, in Japan, they are mainly used for drying hands after washing. Since many public restrooms in Japan do not provide paper towels or hand dryers, having a personal handkerchief is a necessity.
Japanese handkerchiefs come in countless styles, from simple cotton squares to high-end silk versions from brands like Afternoon Tea, Paul & Joe, or Sou Sou. Some feature intricate embroidery, delicate lace, or seasonal motifs that change throughout the year. They also make popular gifts, especially as small tokens of appreciation or souvenirs.
Hand Towels & Finger Towels: The Compact Companion
Hand towels (tenugui 手ぬぐい and oshibori おしぼり) are another common sight in Japan. Tenugui are thin, lightweight cotton cloths that serve multiple purposes—they can be used as hand towels, headbands, or even decorative table coverings. Their long, rectangular shape and unique dyed patterns make them a favorite for traditional and modern designs alike.
In contrast, oshibori refers to the damp towels provided at restaurants to clean your hands before a meal. At home, many people use small, soft hand towels in place of disposable paper towels, reflecting Japan’s appreciation for reusable, eco-friendly alternatives.
Finger towels (yubi taoru 指タオル) are a miniaturized version of hand towels, designed for quick dabs and discreet use. Often carried in a purse or pocket, they are particularly useful in Japan’s humid summers, when people wipe away sweat on the go.
Scarves: Style and Function Combined
Scarves, especially lightweight ones, are a fashion must-have in Japan. They serve both a functional and aesthetic purpose—providing warmth in winter, sun protection in summer, and an easy way to add a touch of elegance to an outfit. Mufflers(long winter scarves) and stoles (larger, wrap-style scarves) are common cold-weather accessories, while silk scarves (scāfu スカーフ) from brands like Hermès and Furla are worn stylishly in business and casual settings alike.
A unique Japanese take on scarves is the furoshiki (風呂敷), a square cloth traditionally used for wrapping and carrying items. Furoshiki can be tied into different shapes, allowing them to function as handbags, gift wrap, or even grocery bags—an eco-friendly alternative to plastic.
Why These Items Remain Popular in Japan
Unlike in many parts of the world where disposable alternatives have largely replaced reusable cloths, Japan continues to embrace these textiles as part of daily life. A combination of cultural traditions, environmental awareness, and an appreciation for well-crafted design has kept handkerchiefs, towels, and scarves in steady demand.
For visitors to Japan, these items make perfect souvenirs—lightweight, practical, and infused with both beauty and function. Whether it’s a beautifully patterned tenugui, a soft hand towel, or a delicate silk scarf, these small textiles offer a glimpse into Japan’s thoughtful approach to everyday elegance.