Jofu is a type of extremely precious fabric for Japanese summer Kimono, which is exquisitely plain-woven with superfine linen.
Echigo Jofu from Niigata prefecture, Oumi Jofu from Shiga, and Miyako Jofu from Miyako island of Okinawa, are very famous among other types of Jufu produced, and most of them are designated as protected cultural properties of Japan.
The origin of the term Jofu is said to be Kenjofu (献上布, fabrics presented to the king). Miyako Jofu was once handled as taxable articles and selected skillful village women were engaged in making Jofus for the King of Ryukyu Dynasty.
Today, Jofu is regarded as a very luxurious handicraft, since it takes a day for skilled weavers to weave 8-11 inches of Jofu. Plus, not many Jufu are on the market. The time and effort to make this exquisite work of art is beyond imagination. You will be amazed if you feel the pleasantly cool texture of it in your hand.
I visited Miyako island to purchase one for summer, but Jufu were so expensive that I couldn't afford. I bought a pouch Made of Jufu instead.
The color of the sea of the island is called Miyako blue. Miyako Jufu is listed as four top Jufus of Japan.
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