Beautiful Kinchaku bags have always been popular in Japan. Lately, the Kinchaku has been getting rave reviews from other countries as it makes its way around the globe as a unique gift idea and drawstring handbag.

“Kin” in the word Kinchaku refers to fabric while “Chaku” is translated as “to put on.” Originally, the bag was meant for a young woman who may need to carry a few essentials like a handkerchief, lucky charm, photos, or make-up. For young children, they used this type of bag to carry their lunch to school.

During the Edo Era (1603 to 1868), the ruling clan known as the Tokugawa used the bag as a fashion statement. It soon became a status symbol among the rich. Different materials were used to create the bags from leather to silk. When the Meiji Period (1868 to 1912) came, the bag became more westernized with the advent of foreigners into the country. Soon after, it became obscure and faded as a fashion statement because western bags became the style trend.

Yet, over the years because of Japanese tradition and culture, the bag never lost its charm. People still used it, especially little girls. It’s typical of Japanese culture to maintain a connection with traditional items. They don’t easily forget or forego ancestral customs just because something new replaces its use.

The respect for tradition is extremely powerful in this tiny Asian country. It may have become a craft item, but if you look around you will see them in unexpected places. Since it has become more of a craft item, the designs available are unique and vary from traditional to modern fabric. There are also twists in the bag design with some craft ideas using the Kinchaku as part of a basket or as a utility bag.

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