Traditional paper lanterns are said to have been introduced to Japan from China between the Heian and Muromachi periods. Lights used by aristocrats and Buddhist temples became deeply rooted in the culture and daily lives of commoners during the Edo period, appearing at festivals, religious events, and on shop signs.

Today, the only person still producing lanterns in Hyogo Prefecture (Kasai City) is Masamitsu Takabe, the fourth generation owner of Takabe Lantern Shop.

Meanwhile, Kitano Hinata, the representative of “Tsuguhi,” has updated the traditional techniques of Banshu lanterns to make them more enjoyable in modern life. Kitano himself is an architect from Banshu. He has developed standing lanterns, pendant lights, and a “kit” that allows people to experience making their own lanterns. 

He shares that he hopes people around the world can experience the Japanese mindset of using lanterns carefully because they are made of fragile paper.