The scarf is a product that is heavily influenced not only by changes in the economic situation but also by shifting fashion trends. The economy began improving gradually in 1985 (Showa 60), when there was also a silk scarf fad in America, and scarves made mainly of silk grew more popular in Japan. However, this ended suddenly due to the bubble burst and rapid appreciation of the yen, and the amount of exports also dropped.
However, Yokohama's scarf industry developed while managing to weather the storms of past recessions. And the print industry's unflagging efforts, research, development, and progress have all supported the scarf production industry.
The reason that scarves from Yokohama are so popular worldwide is due to the advanced printing technology that preserves the feel of the silk. Even during the Heisei recession, research and improvements regarding dyes and adhesives continued. To reduce labor, assure quality, and improve production, the printing process newly employed high-tech machinery, resulting in a more streamlined process.
Printing technology in Yokohama developed through making use of exceptional woodblock printing technology from both the East and the West. And now, it employs both screen-printing and digital printing.
After WWII
When trade was re-opened in 1947 (Showa 22), silk goods such as scarves gained new popularity. Then, thanks to the hit radio drama program "What's your name?" in 1952 (Showa 27), long scarves like those worn by the heroine Machiko (whose method of scarf tying came to be known as the "Machiko wrap") became popular. This also led to an increase in demand for scarves within Japan.
Japan entered a period of rapid economic growth in 1959 (Showa 34). Automatic screen-printing machines began to be used, making the printing industry more modern and streamlined. Because these machines could produce a large amount of products, they were also used to make ladies clothing and other items.
Scarves varied in color, pattern, and quality according to where they were exported to. Sending smaller numbers of scarves to developed countries meant that they were seen as luxury products, while large amounts were exported to the Near and Middle East and Africa.
On the other hand, wearing scarves gradually spread in Japan in the late 50's and early 60's. They grew even more fashionable in the mid 60's, when scarves created by famous designers became available. As clothing became more high class and individualized, scarves also grew in quality and evolved into part of the fashion of the times.
In more recent times, almost 90% of the scarves produced in Japan are made by manufacturers whose headquarters are in Yokohama.
Japan entered a period of rapid economic growth in 1959 (Showa 34). Automatic screen-printing machines began to be used, making the printing industry more modern and streamlined. Because these machines could produce a large amount of products, they were also used to make ladies clothing and other items.
Scarves varied in color, pattern, and quality according to where they were exported to. Sending smaller numbers of scarves to developed countries meant that they were seen as luxury products, while large amounts were exported to the Near and Middle East and Africa.
On the other hand, wearing scarves gradually spread in Japan in the late 50's and early 60's. They grew even more fashionable in the mid 60's, when scarves created by famous designers became available. As clothing became more high class and individualized, scarves also grew in quality and evolved into part of the fashion of the times.
In more recent times, almost 90% of the scarves produced in Japan are made by manufacturers whose headquarters are in Yokohama.
Modern times
Kanagawa Silk Fair
Dates :
November 1 (Saturday) to November 9 (Sunday), 2008 (9 days)
Location :
Silk Center International Trade and Sightseeing Building B1F Event Space
1-banchi, Yamashita-cho, Naka-ku, Yokohama-shi
