Tenugui Towel: Sumo

The tenugui has been part of Japanese daily life for centuries, used as a hand towel, kitchen cloth, work bandana, and decorative object all at once. Unlike thick Western terrycloth, the flat cotton weave dries almost immediately and softens with each wash, making it one of those simple tools that turns out to be genuinely useful in a dozen different situations.

Sumo wrestling is one of Japan oldest and most ceremonially rich sports, with roots stretching back over fifteen centuries. The massive figures of the rikishi, or wrestlers, rendered in the bold graphic style of traditional Japanese illustration, make for one of the more striking tenugui designs in this collection.

Care Instructions: Dyed tenugui may fade slightly during the first two or three washes, so wash separately the first time using a gentle detergent. After washing, squeeze lightly to smooth out wrinkles and allow the towel to air dry. Both ends are intentionally left unhemmed in the traditional tenugui style and will fray slightly over time - simply trim loose threads as needed. The fraying will naturally stop and form a soft edge.

• Made in Japan
• Material: Cotton
• Design: Sumo Wrestling
• Length: 90 cm (35 inches)
• Width: 35 cm (13.75 inches)
• Finish: Unhemmed ends (traditional tenugui style)