The Gem of Imabari Born from Artisan Passion - The Birth of Shichifuku Towel

March 05 2025, by KataokaRyosuke, 1 min reading time

In 1959, Akira Kawakita founded Shichifuku Towel Factory in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture—a region globally renowned for towel production. During Japan's post-war recovery period, embodying the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship, Shichifuku Towel's history began from a small workshop.

Since its founding, the desire to "become a towel maker where people gather" has been at the heart of Shichifuku Towel. This philosophy has fostered a corporate culture that values deep connections with customers, partners, and employees, rather than merely pursuing commercial success.

In 1968, the company was recognized by the Minister of International Trade and Industry for its contribution to exports, demonstrating its early global perspective. In the 1980s, the company incorporated, introduced state-of-the-art looms, and began developing its own brand, embarking on a path as a "manufacturer directly connected to real demand."

When Taizo Kawakita became CEO in 2002, a new era of challenges began, including collaborations with design firms and active participation in overseas exhibitions. The company has showcased Japanese traditional techniques and aesthetic sensibilities to the world through international exhibitions in New York and Paris.

Throughout its more than 60-year history, Shichifuku Towel has always valued the balance between innovation and tradition. In 2023, it was selected as one of the "100 Textile Industry Companies Leading the Next Generation" by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and was also certified as a "Youth Employment Promotion Company," with its initiatives highly regarded within Japan.

To this day, in Imabari, Shichifuku Towel's artisans continue to create each towel with passion. These are not mere daily necessities but gems that color everyday life, woven from Japanese tradition and innovation.

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