Traditionally used to protect the entrance to stores and homes from the sun, wind and dust from the streets, noren are no longer an absolute necessity but a lovely tradition that is kept alive by shop keepers, restaurateurs and home owners in Japan.

Noren are the split curtains that gracefully adorn the doorways of Japan and can be short enough to walk under or hang to the ground.  Shopkeepers hang them out in the morning when the establishment opens for business and take them down at the end of the business day.  The most common noren are dyed a lovely indigo blue and display a crisp white crest of the establishment or family but can be found in a variety of colors and designs.

Today many people value noren as decorative accessories and with designs ranging from traditional to modern and from very elegant to the whimsical: there are noren to suit every taste.  In fact, it’s not uncommon to find beautiful woven and hand dyed noren hung on the wall or used as an interior room divider in Japanese homes and businesses.  The best noren are valued for their artistic qualities and are a tacit example of the beauty that can be found in traditional Japanese arts and crafts.

Take some time to notice the variety of noren as you explore Japan and consider taking some home with you as a memento of your trip.

Image Credit:  Flick, Noren & So Japanese

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