The surface of Lake Biwa quietly shifts in color as it catches the light.
Its gentle transitions somehow resemble the subtle glow of woven threads.
Currently at Vermillion - station., the sister store of SHU. by Vermillion, we are hosting a POP UP STORE by the craft jewelry brand YURAI.
What drew us in was not only the beauty of the jewelry itself, but also the story of its place of origin behind each piece.
| Contents |
1. About YURAI
YURAI is a craft jewelry brand that develops new styles rooted in Japanese traditions, techniques, and regional materials.
The brand carefully connects the aesthetic sensibilities found in the “origins” — the history and lineage of craft — to contemporary adornment.
For this feature on SERIES 02 “Tsuzure,” we spoke with designer Haruka Okabe about the story behind the collection.
2. The Background of SERIES 02 “Tsuzure”
— What inspired the creation of SERIES 02 “Tsuzure”?
“The project began with my fascination for Nishijin weaving and a desire to translate its rich colors and intricate textile textures into jewelry.
It also started with an encounter with Kiyohara Orimono, a historic weaving studio specializing in Tsuzure weaving within the Nishijin tradition.”
3. Why Lake Biwa?
— Lake Biwa is the theme of this series. Could you tell us why?
“Because my work is rooted in the traditional techniques and materials inherited in each region, I believe it is essential to understand the land and its history behind the craft.
By visiting Shiga, I came to realize how deeply cherished Lake Biwa is by the people who live there.
Each time I visited, I looked out over the lake and witnessed moments when it took on astonishingly beautiful hues.
Textiles also change in appearance depending on how the light touches them, revealing a beauty that exists only in that instant. That fleeting quality felt very similar to the scenery of Lake Biwa.”
4. Transforming Tsuzure Weaving into Wearable Craft
— Were there any challenges during the production process?
“Since we were creating something without precedent, it was challenging to determine how to finish the edges of the woven fabric and refine the specifications.
We also experimented with gradients using gold and silver threads — techniques we had never attempted before — which allowed us to achieve a unique and expressive texture.”
When seen in person, the layering of threads and the way they catch the light create a remarkable sense of depth.
It is a delicacy that photographs alone cannot fully convey.
5. What You Can Experience at the POP UP
— Do you have a message for those visiting the POP UP?
“To convey the beauty of the textiles and the scenery of their place of origin, we are displaying photographs of the region alongside the jewelry.
The woven pieces are truly beautiful in person, so I would be delighted if you could take the opportunity to see and hold them.”
Dates: February 7 (Sat) – March 5 (Thu), 2026
Location: Vermillion - station.
Wearing the light of a place, and carrying the “origin” of craft.
We invite you to visit us in store and experience the colors that can only be seen in a fleeting moment.