Onigiri Rice Ball Tenugui Hand Towel

These Japanese tenugui (hand towels) feature a charming rice-ball motif, highlighted with a rich navy or gray background. Rice balls, or onigiri, are a much-loved staple in Japanese cuisine, deservedly celebrated on these patterned hand towels. These fabrics are crafted using Chusen dyeing—a handcrafting technique unique to Japan. The Chusen dyeing process is carried out entirely by skilled artisans. It involves carefully infusing dyes into the fabric by hand. Unlike machine printing, this traditional method allows the fabric to be beautifully dyed on both sides. Each piece is handmade, resulting in slight variations in color intensity and motif placement, making every towel a unique work of art. The richly colored dyes are best preserved with gentle hand washing, avoiding harsh chemicals or bleach. Durable yet soft Chita cotton is chosen for the material due to its excellent absorption and quick-drying properties. Versatile and functional, tenugui can be used not only as kitchen towels or tablecloths but also for wrapping bento boxes and much more, making them a practical and elegant addition to any household. These artisan-made kitchen towels are part of a complete set on JOC Goods—each featuring a different themed motif in various colors.

Please Note: Pre-washing traditional Japanese hand towels (tenugui) is essential to prevent color bleeding and soften the fabric. To care for your tenugui, hand-wash it in cold water without detergent, rinsing it multiple times if necessary. After washing, air-dry the tenugui in the shade to preserve its vibrant colors. It is also recommended to store the tenugui away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration. Following these steps will help maintain its beauty and durability over time.