African fabric products with colorful, dynamic patterns have the power to lift your spirits in an instant.
One place selling these African fabric products is the pop-up store for “jam tun.”
A pop-up store is a shop that opens for a relatively short, limited period.
I learned that the “jam tun Yakage Honjin-mae Pop-up” would be held in front of Yakage Honjin on July 8 and 9, 2023, and went to find one-of-a-kind, vibrant African fabric products.
The information provided was current when this article was published in July 2023. Please note that it may differ from current information.
What is the African fabric apparel brand “jam tun”?
“jam tun” is an apparel brand that creates clothing and accessories using African fabric.
In Pulaar, a language spoken in the Republic of Senegal, jam tun means “only peace.”
Representative Taga Tomoko launched the brand with the aim of promoting fair trade with Senegal.
Taga was dispatched to Senegal as a Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteer for two years starting in 2014, where she worked to raise awareness of local waste issues.
Her activities reportedly began when she made pouches by combining plastic bags from discarded drinking water with fabric scraps.
Taga’s work helped reduce waste and increase the income of local tailors. After returning to Japan, she used crowdfunding to establish jam tun.
jam tun does not have a permanent store.
It holds pop-ups and workshops around Japan. Before the Yakage Honjin-mae Pop-up, it had set up shop on Hachijo Island in Tokyo.
I visited the “jam tun Yakage Honjin-mae Pop-up”
The jam tun Yakage Honjin-mae Pop-up was held on the following dates:
- Saturday, July 8, 2023, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Sunday, July 9, 2023, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
The range of products has grown year by year, and the display of original items, from accessories to parasols, bags, and clothing, was so exciting.
Parasols are made to order and take 1.5 to 2 months to complete.
The parasols are reportedly made by Arigato Farm, an Okayama City Type A continuous employment support facility known for its careful workmanship.
The new wrap-front dresses, wide-leg pants, and wrap skirts are also popular items.
Here are some products that caught my eye.
For the latest pop-up information, check the Facebook page and Instagram.
Fabric fans
Fabric fans are perfect for summer.
The front and back have different patterns, and the bamboo frame is sturdy. I think the slightly elongated shape makes them easy to fan yourself with.
The geometric designs and playful patterns of plants and animals all feature colors that instantly brighten up their surroundings, lifting your mood just by holding one.
They not only provide a cool breeze but also make decorative pieces when displayed on a shelf or wall. My friend bought one as a small gift.
Small stools
The small stools were very cute and left a strong impression on me.
The covers can be removed and washed.
They could be used as a child’s chair or an ottoman, or you could enjoy displaying something on one.
I heard they can support adults weighing up to 100 kg.
African fabric can be purchased by the yard (1 yard = about 92 cm), so if you’re good at sewing, why not make chair covers to use as spares while the others are being washed?
From the Writer
I was impressed by jam tun’s efforts.
I think it’s wonderful that they do more than simply provide support: they continue to engage with people in Senegal and enjoy their activities.
I have great respect for their drive to expand their activities across Japan and travel around so energetically.
The following pop-up events are coming up soon in Okayama Prefecture, so be sure to stop by.
- Saturday, July 15, 2023, 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Egg Marche ※The stall may not open in case of rain
Sakamoto Keiran Bisei Sales Outlet (3731-1 Hoshida, Bisei Town, Ibara City) - Friday, July 21–Sunday, July 23, 2023, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. ※Until 4:00 p.m. on the final day
mini z Pop-up (2-1-35 Hamano, Minami Ward, Okayama City)
jam tun Yakage Honjin-mae Pop-up Information
| Name | jam tun Yakage Honjin-mae Pop-up |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, July 8, 2023, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Sunday, July 9, 2023, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. |
| Location | 3079 Yakage, Yakage Town, Oda District, Okayama Prefecture |
| Admission (tax included) | Admission is free |
| Website | jam tun |
What would you like to know about Kurashiki?
Enter a search term to find articles on this site
