I visited Kyoto recently and dropped in on Kyokaori Company where they have been very creative and turned some kimono obi’s into brilliantly colorful and unique iPad Cases. Imagine turning up to a meeting with your iPad dressed in a kimono. You would be sure to attract a lot of attention.
This photo was from an article carried in the Japan Times a few weeks ago, which discussed the concept and also shows a photo of Tomita-san, from Kyokaori Co.
The stock for these iPad cases is currently limited as the material is made from the Obi of Maiko, apprentice geisha. As you might guess the patterns for males are almost sold out since the Obi of Maiko are worn by females. Most of the patterns for the cases are typical classical Japanese such as Chrysanthemum (菊)、bamboo (たけ)、cherry blossom (さくら) and butterflies (蝶), which are all worn by females.
These are premium products for those who want to dress their iPad up. Prices start at just under 10,000 Yen (roughly US$85), and go up to around 20,000 Yen (roughly US$170) for some of the more expensive kimono material. The cloth is very durable and strong. Apart from just having a good looking and unusual iPad case, you will also have a part of Japanese traditional culture which has a unique history of its own passed down from the Maiko wearer of the Kimono prior to it becoming an iPad case. Unique indeed.
Shipping overseas can be arranged for whatever the extra is for postage to your area.
Further Information
If you are interested I will be helping Kyokaori Co. to promote the cases and help spread the word about great Japanese innovation in the textile industry, particularly from Kyoto. They have some great ideas in addition to the Kimono iPad Case and are a source for blending traditional Japan with the modern world.
Sizes of cases are available to fit various the various iPad models. Cases for iPad3 will be organized very shortly.
You can drop me a line at blog@shibuya246.com if you want more information or leave a comment on this post.
wonderful color