Kasa – umbrellas and parasols that only exist in Japan

While some people believe that parasols are for blocking the sun and umbrellas are for protecting from the rain, the truth is that parasols are typically for women while umbrellas are unisex. In Japanese, there is no distinction between the two: both are called kasa [傘].

In Japan, umbrellas have many more uses than simply protecting from rain and sun. We know that Japan is famous for its countless inventions and quirky variations of everyday objects. In this article, we will look at some umbrellas and parasols that you had no idea existed – but that exist only in Japan.

It is worth noting that the word kasa can also be written with the kanji (笠), referring to ancient hats that bear a resemblance to modern umbrellas. Let's start with a type of umbrella that I saw everywhere in Japan during summer.

Transparent umbrellas were incredibly easy to find; I even bought one, but unfortunately left it behind in Japan. These really only serve to protect you from the rain, although the material is surprisingly durable.

Wagasa – the Traditional Japanese Parasol

Let's begin with the traditional Japanese parasol – the wagasa! It is handcrafted from bamboo ribs and washi (Japanese paper). The wagasa originally came from China and was considered a sacred object used in Buddhist ceremonies.

It arrived in Japan during the Heian period (794–1185) and became popular in the Edo period. It was closely associated with geishas and is still used today on special occasions.

Wagasa come in a wide variety of features, colors, designs, and symbols. Purple parasols are commonly used by geishas and symbolize longevity. Dancers typically wear pink, middle-aged people green or red, the elderly dark blue, and white ones are reserved for funerals.

Today, traditional Japanese umbrellas are most commonly used at events, tea ceremonies, weddings, festivals, and traditional dances. The wagasa is now considered a piece of art and a treasured cultural symbol.

Japanese Creativity in Umbrellas

Since Japan loves to reinvent everyday things, it should come as no surprise that there is a long list of quirky umbrellas out there. Here are some themed and special umbrellas that have truly pushed the limit. Not all of them are easy to find, let alone popular.

Some umbrellas have hidden patterns that only appear when the fabric comes into contact with water. Others feature a built-in visor that covers the head completely while still allowing you to see. There are even umbrellas that open and close in reverse.

The Japanese have repeatedly tried to make daily life easier, even with umbrellas. Some can be strapped to your arms so you do not have to hold them. Others are umbrella hats – and there is even a hat you can sit on like a chair.

• Samurai Umbrella – a regular umbrella shaped like a katana sword;
• Kokeshi Umbrella – as the name suggests, it has a kokeshi doll on the handle;
• Vegetabrella – this one went too far and literally turned into a salad;

Perverted Umbrellas – a project called The Million Girls, designed to promote the idea of "bizarre Japan," created an umbrella named Upskirt Umbrella. On its underside, you can see the legs and underwear of a Japanese schoolgirl drawn in anime style.

Have you ever seen someone carrying one of these quirky umbrellas? Would you have the nerve to buy one yourself? We would love to read your comments and see you share the article. I hope you enjoyed it – do not forget to check out our article on aiaigasa.