Tōzan refers to an ancient striped textile introduced to Japan from overseas, which has a long-standing history in the country. Its origins can be traced to various regions, including China, Korea, Ryukyu, and southern islands. As a textile material, tōzan has been fully integrated into the daily lives of Japanese civilians and is regarded as a quintessential example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. These fabrics, painstakingly handcrafted by ordinary people with great effort and time, have deeply permeated the lives of the populace. This book traces the origins of tōzan, attempting to illuminate its journey of dissemination and development in Japan, culminating in its recognition as an integral part of history.
