TSUGUHI:Sustainable LEDLanterns Blending Japanese Tradition

The art of Japan across the ages—lighting your world today.

“Experience the calming glow of 120 years of Japanese craftsmanship—reimagined for the modern home.”

Blending heritage and innovation, transforms the 120-year tradition of Banshu lantern-making into lighting made for today’s lifestyle. Created by the fourth-generation master of Takabe Lanterns, it combines time-honored techniques with modern design, giving you a piece of Japan’s soul you can enjoy every day.

Unlike mass-produced lighting, TSUGUHI is crafted from sustainable bamboo and Japanese washi paper—materials that breathe warmth into your space while being gentle on the planet. Its design isn’t just traditional; it’s adaptable, offering both the “Bon” table lamp for immediate enjoyment and the “Kit” for those who want the hands-on experience of making their own.

This is light that does more than illuminate—it connects you to history, supports master artisans, and brings a unique piece of Japan into your life.

Join us in carrying the elegance and spirit of Banshu lanterns into homes across the world.

■ Bon – Banshu “Tsubo”-Shaped Table Lantern

“Bon” is a stable, tabletop lighting piece inspired by turning the signature “downward-tapered” shape of Banshu lanterns upside down. Drawing from the rounded form of the traditional bonbori lantern, its softly curved silhouette pairs beautifully with the warm glow of light filtering through washi paper. The edges, made with hand-crafted gray washi, add a modern accent. Perfect for your desk or living space, this lamp blends the elegance of Japanese tradition with contemporary style.

■Kickstarter Exclusive: KS Edition Bon

For this special KS Edition, we’ve adopted TSUGUHI’s signature brand color—gray—along both the top and bottom edges of the lantern. This design symbolizes “the seamless blend of old and new,” breathing modern life into 120 years of heritage. More than just lighting, it’s a collector’s piece for those who appreciate the art of Japanese craftsmanship.

Crafted entirely from bamboo framing and washi paper, “Bon” is made with 100% natural materials. Using locally sourced Banshu bamboo and premium washi, it’s a sustainable product designed to minimize environmental impact. Equipped with an LED bulb socket (bulb sold separately), it offers both safety and long-lasting use.

Compact in size (under 30 cm / 12 in), Bon fits seamlessly into a variety of spaces—whether as a desk lamp, bedside light, or a decorative piece for hotel lobbies. The gentle glow of washi paper enhances relaxation while adding a distinct Japanese serenity to any room.

Included Accessories

- Long vertical tension rod
- Short horizontal tension rod
- E26 bulb socket (*bulb sold separately)

Assembly Instructions

- Assemble the two tension rods into a T-shape by aligning the dowel with the hole.
- Attach the bulb to the main unit.
- Secure the tension rod by aligning the hole with the dowel at the bottom of the main unit.
- Unfold the lantern and hook the tension rod to the bottom of the wooden ring.

■ Kit – Experience the Art of Banshu Lanterns, Hands-On
The “Kit” simplifies the traditional Banshu lantern-making process so anyone can complete it in about an hour. This pinecone-sized lantern set includes bamboo ribs, washi paper, and an LED candle, letting you easily experience the charm of natural materials for yourself.

■Kickstarter Exclusive: KS Edition Kit

For our KS Edition, we’ve upgraded from the standard white washi to a special paper adorned with gold and silver leaf. The result is a calm, luxurious finish that makes the crafting experience even more memorable. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own personal light, now with premium materials that shine.

The “Kit” streamlines the making of a Banshu lantern into a hands-on experience that anyone can finish in about an hour. The palm-sized lantern comes with bamboo ribs, washi paper, and an LED candle—perfect for discovering the beauty of natural materials in a simple, approachable way.

From children to adults, the “Kit” is ideal for craft workshops and cultural learning. For overseas creators, it offers a unique opportunity to connect with Japanese traditional craftsmanship. Once completed, the lantern fills any space with the gentle glow of washi light.

The History of Banshu Lanterns

Banshu lanterns are a traditional craft nurtured in Kasai City, Hyogo Prefecture, with origins tracing back to the Muromachi period. They became popular during the Edo period with the spread of candlelight.
One signature style from the Banshu region is the downward-tapered lantern, often displayed at entrances and cherished in festivals and shrines.

Takabe Lanterns, founded in 1905, has been run by four generations of artisans. Their unique method—wrapping each bamboo rib by hand—produces lanterns that are both durable and long-lasting, preserving a century-old commitment to craftsmanship.

Takabe Lanterns, founded in 1905, is a fourth-generation workshop. Their unique spiral bamboo technique creates durable, long-lasting lanterns.

TSUGUHI’s founder, designer Kitano, was born and raised in Kasai City. Since childhood, he had been captivated by the lanterns he saw at local festivals. Collaborating with Takabe Lanterns, he created the “Bon” and “Kit”—modern designs that carry forward the essence of Banshu lanterns.
Guided by the philosophy “Learn from the old to create the new”, TSUGUHI shares the Japanese spirit of caring for objects and cherishing them for years, rather than replacing them quickly.

The partnership with Takabe Lanterns began after a childhood school visit left Kitano in awe of their craftsmanship. Years later, this collaboration reimagined traditional lanterns as modern lighting, birthing "Bon" and "Kit."

TSUGUHI’s ethos, "revisiting the old, creating the new," started with redesigning antique furniture and now applies to lanterns. The brand seeks to share Japan’s spirit of mindful use and repair, fostering long-lasting appreciation.

The Bon takes the classic downward-tapered form and turns it upside down to create a stable tabletop light. Careful adjustments to washi thickness and light diffusion ensure it harmonizes with contemporary spaces.

The Kit simplifies the lantern-making process so that children and international audiences alike can enjoy this traditional craft—designed to be completed in just one hour, with a size and structure that makes it easy for all skill levels.

TSUGUHI’s creations have been well-received at local exhibitions and festivals, inspiring a vision to bring them overseas. One milestone came when Takabe Lanterns were displayed in a restaurant in Spain—proof that the warm glow of washi paper resonates across cultures.
Through this project, we hope to share not only the beauty of Banshu lanterns, but also Japan’s culture of “using with care” with people around the world.

TSUGUHI creates sustainable lighting made from bamboo and washi paper—lanterns designed to be cherished for years as an alternative to disposable plastics. The soft, calming glow of washi transforms any space into a place of relaxation.
Through crowdfunding, we aim to share the craftsmanship of Banshu lanterns and TSUGUHI’s modern designs with the world, building a culture of environmentally conscious lighting.

Takabe, the fourth-generation master of Takabe Lanterns, has spent 25 years perfecting his skills and dreams of passing them on. Yet, the number of artisans is dwindling.
By introducing these products to a wider audience, TSUGUHI hopes to keep these techniques alive and inspire new makers. Crowdfunding is more than raising funds—it’s about finding like-minded supporters who share our vision and taking the first step to shine the light of Banshu lanterns around the world.

TSUGUHI is our heartfelt mission to carry 120 years of Banshu lantern craftsmanship into the modern age—blending time-honored artistry with contemporary design, and fostering a lighting culture that’s gentle on the planet.

Through the Bon and Kit, we’re not only preserving the techniques of master artisans, but also passing on the Japanese spirit of cherishing and caring for the things we use to the next generation.

Crowdfunding is the spark that makes this vision possible. With your support, we can share the warm, calming glow of Banshu lanterns with homes and hearts around the world.

Join us in keeping this beautiful tradition alive—so its light continues to shine for generations to come.

With proper care, your TSUGUHI lantern can be enjoyed for many years.Dust Removal: Gently wipe the washi paper surface with a soft, dry cloth.Humidity Protection: Avoid placing in damp areas to prevent mold.Repairs: If the washi tears, small areas can be repaired by our workshop for an additional fee.

Handling Precautions
・Avoid dropping or striking the lantern to prevent damage.
・Keep away from open flames.
・Store away from direct sunlight and high-humidity environments.
・Do not wash with water—moisture can damage the washi and shorten its lifespan.

Assembly

1.Connect the two support rods into a “T” shape, aligning the dowels and holes.
2.Install your light bulb into the main socket.
3.Attach the support rods to the dowels at the base of the lantern frame.
4.Gently expand the folded lantern and hook the lower part of the wooden ring onto the support rods.

Electrical Specifications

・Socket: E26 (26 mm), 1.5 m cord with socket (white, Model: KP-M2615H(W)), ceramic body for excellent heat resistance
・Recommended bulb: E26 base, warm light, max 60W (sold separately)
・Usage: Simply plug into a household outlet for easy ambient lighting

Safety Precautions

・Never insert fingers or objects into the socket.
・Always switch off the power before replacing the bulb.
・Avoid use in wet areas or high-humidity environments.
・Do not disassemble or modify.
・Place the socket on a stable surface before use.

*International Use: This lamp uses the global-standard E26 socket. Please confirm voltage compatibility in your country. Bulbs can be purchased locally.

Assembly
Using the included bamboo ribs and washi paper, follow the instructions to assemble your lantern in about 1 hour.

Use
Switch on the included LED candle light (powered by three LR1130 button batteries) and place it inside the lantern. No power outlet needed—use it anywhere.

Notes
・If the batteries run out, purchase LR1130 button batteries locally.
・For the KS Edition with gold/silver foil washi, handle with care.

Electrical Specifications
・Included: Simple LED candle light (3 × LR1130 button batteries, 1.5V each)
・Usage: Cordless and battery-powered—easy to use anywhere

Safety Precautions
・Initial batteries may be partially depleted; replace with the same type (LR1130) if needed.
・Avoid water exposure or high-humidity environments.

＊International Use: LR1130 button batteries are widely available worldwide, making the Kit suitable for global use.

TSUGUHI (継灯)
TSUGUHI is a product brand based in Kasai City, Hyogo Prefecture, dedicated to carrying Japanese traditional crafts into the modern age. In collaboration with Takabe Lanterns, we have reimagined the 120-year-old tradition of Banshu lanterns as modern lighting.
Guided by the concept “Learn from the old, create the new”, we design sustainable products using natural materials—bamboo and washi paper—that are gentle on the planet. Founder Kitano draws on his background in architecture and interior design to add fresh value to this heritage craft, sharing the beauty of Banshu lanterns with audiences in Japan and abroad, and working to pass on artisan skills to the next generation.

Takabe Lanterns
Founded in 1905 in Kasai City, Hyogo Prefecture, Takabe Lanterns has preserved the traditional techniques of Japanese lantern-making for 120 years. From festivals to storefront displays to ceremonial use, their handcrafted lanterns have illuminated countless occasions.
While remaining faithful to the traditional methods of crafting with bamboo and washi, Takabe Lanterns also develops modern designs that blend seamlessly into contemporary interiors. The warm light produced by their artisans’ hands brings a unique charm to any space.
Unlike conventional lanterns that are often limited to ceremonial or decorative purposes, Takabe Lanterns is committed to fusing tradition and modernity to create products that fit into daily life. With a vision to expand global recognition, they continue to explore new possibilities for lanterns while passing Japan’s craft culture to future generations.