Kaya Cloth

Kaya cloth is a traditional Japanese textile, characterized by its light, breathable, and loosely woven structure, typically made from hemp or cotton. Originally used for mosquito nets (kaya), it also found applications in culinary and household contexts due to its airy and hygienic properties. 

Kaya cloth is notable for its presence in historical Japanese woodblock prints (ukiyo-e), where it often appears in depictions of summer scenes. These prints illustrate the cultural significance of kaya cloth, portraying it as a symbol of the serene and simple life in rural Japan, capturing moments of daily life and evoking a sense of nostalgia for the past.