Tenugui | Eye Vison Charts

This playful tenugui features a design inspired by the Landolt C eye chart, the most commonly used vision test in Japan.

The chart is recognizable by its rows of “C”-shaped rings with small breaks, used to measure visual acuity by identifying the direction of the opening. In Japan, these charts often appear alongside kana characters, which are also read during eye examinations, details charmingly captured in this unique design.

Made by Hamamonyo, known for its vibrant textiles crafted using Yokohama’s traditional nassen (stencil dyeing) technique, this tenugui is dyed on carefully selected cotton for rich color that resists fading. It offers excellent absorbency, soft texture, and plenty of personality—perfect as a towel, wrap, kitchen cloth, or decorative art piece.

What is Tenugui?

Tenugui is a multi-purpose cloth that has been used in Japan since ancient times for all kinds of daily activities, such as wiping hands and sweat, cleaning, wrapping things, etc. It is always attached to the strings of kimonos.
Now, it is popular as gift wrapping, scarf or as art framed or hung on tapestry rods.

The charm of a Tenugui als lies in its character developed through aging. When you first start using it, the color is vivid, the texture is stiff, and the edges may fray. With continued use, it becomes softer to the touch, develops fringes at the edges, and the colors mellow.

About Hamamonyo
Hamamonyo produces a wide range of Japanese textiles and goods, with a focus on colorful tenugui dyed using the traditional Yokohama nassen method. Their designs blend playful motifs with a refined sense of craftsmanship.