仙台平
Sendai silk textile

What defines Sendai hira is its tight, even silk weave, producing a cloth that is smooth and lustrous yet firm and durable. The manufacturing process involves a total of around 30 steps, which includes refining raw silk to weaving and is an integrated production process (合資会社仙台平, n.d.). The weave pattern is subtle and refined, often employing a plain or twill weave, giving a matte-silk glow rather than a flashy shine. The thread is made from raw silk, which is not twisted, so the fabric does not become too hard or too soft. Even the slightest deviation in the heat treatment of the silk during the dying section is not permitted, making it extremely difficult to weave. This process of delicately balancing dyeing and weaving takes decades to master (合資会社仙台平, n.d.) . Historically, the colors were muted, understated: deep indigo, charcoal gray, subdued browns. Which was in line with the samurai aesthetic of shibumi (refined simplicity). Because of its strength and resistance to wear, Sendai hira became especially valued for men’s hakama and formal wear. Even under stress, the fabric holds its shape well and does not stretch or sag easily. In addition, the cloth’s dense weave provides a certain resistance to wind, making it practical in colder climates like northern Japan. Unlike lighter summer silks or patterned kimono brocades, Sendai hira stands out for its balance: heavy enough for outer garments, yet smooth enough to remain comfortable. It's a perfect blend of durability, subtlety, and elegance.

Today, Sendai hira is no longer mass-produced, but it continues to survive as a specialized traditional craft, championed and exclusively produced by Sendaihara Co., LTD (資)仙台平). This company produces small quantities of fabric, often custom-ordered, for traditional clothing like hakama and haori, and occasionally for modern fashion items that appeal to customers seeking heritage textiles (きものレンタリエ編集部, n.d.). In recognition of its historical and cultural value, Sendai hira have been promoted in exhibitions focusing on Japanese textiles, and heritage societies have documented the weaving techniques for future generations (宮城県, 2024). Although expensive compared to mass-produced fabrics, the rarity and craftsmanship behind each meter of Sendai hira attract clients, both in Japan and abroad, who value authenticity, strength, and elegance. This renewed interest has helped keep the tradition alive into the 21st century(Sendai Traditional Crafts “Te to Te to Te”, n.d.). 

They currently don’t have their workshop open to the public unfortunately.

Adress: 宮城県仙台市太白区根岸町 15-5 

Travel Time From Akita Station: Approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes

Google maps:

https://www.google.com/maps/place/38%C2%B014'21.6%22N+140%C2%B053'05.5%22E/@38.239264,140.884861,16z/data=!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d38.239319!4d140.884862?hl=en&entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTIwMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D

Prices depend on the item: for example, business card holders cost roughly 4,000 to 12,000 yen, while wallet sets range from about 7,000 yen to over 60,000 yen. You can buy them online or at their shop in Sendai. 

"I am from a city in Sweden that is known for its textiles and I think that the traditional silk of Sendai feels quiet in the best possible way. It’s not flashy or decorative, but when you see it up close, the craftsmanship becomes obvious. The silk has a firmness to it, a kind of weight that makes it feel reliable and grounded, while still being smooth to the touch. The colors are restrained and calm, often deep blue or soft grays, and they seem to change subtly depending on the light. There’s a sense that this fabric was made to last, not just physically, but culturally. 

It carries an atmosphere of patience and discipline, shaped by generations of artisans who focused on precision rather than decoration. In a time when many textiles are designed to stand out quickly, Sendai hira does the opposite. It grows on you the longer you look at it. Even today, when it’s no longer produced in large quantities, it still feels relevant. There’s something reassuring about a material that doesn’t try to follow trends, but instead stays true to its purpose: strength, balance, and quiet elegance." 

- Fredrik Vist