About me

I was born in Aichi and began learning calligraphy as a child. During my school years, I also practiced Nagauta-Shamisen. After graduating from university, fate brought me to Kyoto, where I studied under Yoshiteru Nakagawa of “Jidaiya,” learning how to dress traditional attire such as Maiko, Geiko, and Junihitoe, as well as the application of white makeup. This period, during which I was able to experience traditional Japanese beauty up close, was invaluable to me.

In addition, through my work in the online department of a kimono store, I not only became familiar with historical costumes but also with modern kimonos, allowing me to further appreciate the diversity and charm of this clothing.

Later, I moved with my cats to the city of my dreams, Berlin. When my daughter was born, my mother handed me the kimonos I had worn as a child, which she had carefully preserved. Dressing my daughter in them, I felt a profound moment of experiencing Japanese culture, right in the heart of Europe. I have always been drawn to old things—not only from Japan, but also the colors and textures of old European picture books and furniture. Today, I experience the natural fusion of Japanese tradition with European aesthetics as a beautiful story.

This is how “uchia” was born.
The name carries the message that family comes first. “u,” “chi,” and “a” stand for my beloved daughter and our cats, who live with us as family members, symbolizing for me the idea of moving forward together as a family.

The past has shaped the present, and the present connects to the future—I am very happy if many people here in Europe can enjoy the beauty of Japanese kimonos.

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