It has been said that tanning of animal skins and hides was the first industry for mankind to utilize chemical reactions in nature. The first clothing worn by humans was dried and then softened by kneading and chewing it. As human civilization progressed, tanning techniques evolved with new technology.
Over 2000 years ago, immigrants from the Korean Peninsula brought their leather tanning skills to Harima (present day Hyogo prefecture) and trained the locals, who then took the process and further advanced it. This ancient method of tanning leather is still used in the Hyogo prefecture to this day to create superior quality leather that is utilized by craftsmen around Japan.
What is Himeji Leather?
Himeji is not a word most English speakers are familiar with. It is actually a city in the Hyogo prefecture in Japan. Leather from this area is also sometimes broadly referred to as Hyogo leather as many tanners can also be found in other notable cities such as Kobe. Leather in Himeji is created using a traditional method called Hon-Nameshi. The process starts by soaking hides in the water of the local river. The river is said to contain bacteria and enzymes that naturally whiten the leather. The tanning process employs canola oil and salt to tan the leather, with the tanners using their bare hands and feet in the process. The result is a stunning, soft white leather. “Himeji Leather” is also known as “Hyogo Leather” and “Japanese White Leather”.
Historic Usages of Himeji Leather
During the “Warring States Period” in Japan (1467-1615), Himeji leather was used primarily for military purposes. The white tanned leather would be applied to armor and used to create harnesses. Fast-forward to the later part of the Edo period (~1800-1868), Himeji leather became a common material for civilian products such as cigarette cases. Leather crafts enjoyed extraordinary prosperity during the Edo period as Japan transformed into a commodity economy.
Modern Usages of Himeji Leather
Himeji leather is still used for many leather craft products today. Our leather crafts from Inokura Leather all use Himeji leather for the superior feel and color. You might have seen or heard about products that use Himeji leather without knowing it. Himeji leather has even found its way to Paris Fashion Week. In modern craft, it is rubbed to create grain or is embossed with different patterns. Japanese leather from Hyogo and Himeji have become internationally recognized as quality.
Inokura Leather uses Himeji leather for all of their handcrafted leather accessories. Want to get your hands on this soft, supple leather yourself? Grab a car key fob cover, belts, AirPod case cover, and more! Discover the quality of Himeji Leather for yourself today!
