Bring home the look and feel of a Japanese summer with three effortless accents—noren curtains, wind chimes, and uchiwa (fan) tapestries. Just hang, suspend, and place to invite a sense of cool into your space.
1) Noren — A single panel that changes the room
Traditionally used for sunshade, privacy, and warding off bad luck, noren now serve as a light, elegant divider that “tunes” the atmosphere of a room. Linen offers airy translucency, while indigo and navy look instantly cool.
- Our picks:
- How to style: entryway, kitchen threshold, or window. Use a tension rod; leave 10–15 cm above the floor for a crisp, light look.
- Seasonal motifs: Seigaiha (blue ocean waves), morning glories, goldfish, flowing water, round window.
2) Wind Chimes — Feel the cool through sound
In Japan, the gentle ring of a wind chime is believed to ward off misfortune and invite a sense of cool. Choose by tone and material:
- Cast iron (Nambu / Takaoka): clear, sustained resonance
- Ceramic: soft, refined chime
- (Glass gives a bright “chirin” transparency—also lovely.)
- Our picks:
- Placement tip: hang on the inside of a window to protect from weather and enjoy the sound indoors. Keep the paper slip (tanzaku) in indigo, white, or natural tones for a unified look.
3) Uchiwa-motif Tapestries & Framed Tenugui — Change the season with one wall
The uchiwa (hand fan) symbolizes “inviting good wind.” Goldfish suggest coolness, morning glories good health, and fireworks protection from misfortune. A single wall can set the whole room’s seasonal mood.
- Our picks:
- How to display: use a frame or a simple tapestry bar. Entry, powder room, or kitchen—any wall that catches the eye.
- Palette: indigo × white with a touch of light pink, fresh green, or asagi blue. For dim corners, choose designs with more white space.
Quick setup checklist
- Tension rod (for noren)
- Tapestry bar or frame (A3–A2)
- S-hooks / natural twine
- Non-slip tape (for stabilizing chimes and frames)
Wrap-Up
With three easy actions—hang, suspend, and place—you can welcome the season indoors. Start with indigo & white and the cool textures of linen, iron, and ceramic. A single favorite piece can make the room feel lighter and fresher.
Shop the edit: