Shop Samakatado 様方堂

Here the art of origata, folding paper or fabric, is combined with the art of packaging, tsutsumikata, in its most noble form, Zôtô, or gift wrapping. Gift wrapping in precious paper or fabric can not be ignored by any Japanese person.

In a country where decorum is a priority, the wrapping can sometimes be of greater importance than the gift itself. However, perfect folding can be difficult to master. Origata techniques sometimes reach high levels of complexity. This is why the Origata Institute of Design has developed courses teaching folding methods worthy of the most gifted artisans from Mino, the emblematic city of washi (Japanese paper).

Inside Shop Samakatado, selections of the best handcrafted Mino packaging are available, as well as the very useful "Origata Hanshi" starter kit. The bringing up to date of this art dating from the Muromachi period (1336-1573), lends itself to all sorts of ceremonies, from marriages to corporate conferences, to cover the most diverse objects, from chopsticks to tea, without forget bottles of wine.

Each event is distinguished by the color of the paper, bright for a happy event and sober for sad events. A wonder of refinement, the Japanese get tired of it and a well wrapped gift will leave no one unmoved.