きもの・白生地
Kimono Textile
Supporting the Foundations of Traditional Industries
Since our founding in 1931 as a white fabric manufacturer in Kyoto’s Muromachi district, we have honed the craftsmanship, techniques, and sensibilities of Ito and Kō, weaving them into the ultimate white fabric.
The company name “Ito-Kou” is derived from its founder, Ito Koujiro, who was also a Japanese-style painter. Koujiro, under the artist name Kouzan, wove his artistic sensibility into the ground pattern of white fabric.
White silk fabric, showcasing the inherent luster and texture of silk, is transformed into a one-of-a-kind kimono through dyeing and tailoring.
――White fabric is the very foundation of kimono.
We take pride in the quality of our cocoons, raw silk, and weaving, responding to the sensibilities of the times. With single-minded dedication, we continue to challenge ourselves in the creation of silk textiles.
Protecting Japan’s Silk
生We not only rely on imported thread but also wish to keep the production background of kimonos within Japan, so we contract with domestic sericulture farmers.
In 1997, we launched “Matsuoka Hime,” Japan’s first unified brand covering everything from silk cocoons and raw silk to white fabric.
We maintain contracts with top-tier domestic sericulture farms to preserve pure Japanese silk.
Weaving in the artistic spirit of Japanese painting
The pattern woven into the white fabric is called the ground pattern.
To date, we have woven over 2,000 patterns across 200 different ground designs.
We still have in-house designers who can weave original patterns into white fabric upon request.
Take pride in quality
Using meticulously selected silk threads, we carefully weave our fabrics at partner factories renowned for their exceptional weaving techniques, including Tango chirimen, representing the finest in Japan.
Each bolt undergoes rigorous quality control to maximize the delicate luster and elegance inherent in silk.
The oval mark of “Ito-Kou, Respectfully Crafted” is a symbol of unwavering quality and trust.
