NAKANO HOUITEN

Carrying tradition forward,
weaving new connections

NAKANO HOUITEN
Carrying tradition forward,
weaving new connections.

Since the early Showa era of the 1920s, Nakano Houiten has been crafting vestments and kesa for the Soto Zen tradition here in Moto-Asakusa, Tokyo. Operating as both craftsman and merchant, we have served temples across Tokyo and the wider Kanto region for nearly a century. Nakano Houiten will continue to honor this tradition while nurturing new connections and preserving a rich cultural heritage.

100 Founded
100 Years
Products

Our Products

We carefully tailor formal Soto Zen
vestments and kesa.

01

Hōe

Vestments

With reverence for proper vestment form, we prepare vestments in accordance with Soto Zen regulations and tradition.

02

Kesa &
Rakusu

Kesa / Rakusu

In accordance with Soto Zen vestment regulations, we offer a range of robes and materials.

03

Kairyoe &
Hakue

Kairyoe / Hakue

Garments worn during zazen and daily practice — practical attire combining ease of movement with purity.

04

Tailoring &
Repair

Tailoring & Repair

From new tailoring of vestments and kesa to repairs and alterations. We carefully restore treasured vestments that have been used for many years.

05

Zafu &
Accessories

Zafu / Accessories

We also offer zafu cushions, mats, and other items used in zazen and daily practice.

History

A Century of History

1920s (Early Showa)

Founding

Nakano Houiten was founded in Moto-Asakusa, Taito-ku, Tokyo, beginning its journey as a shop specializing in Soto Zen vestments and kesa.

1930s

Building a Foundation

Building trusted relationships with Soto Zen temples around Asakusa and Ueno, we delivered reliable quality through our specialized vestment craftsmanship.

1940s

Through the War

Even during wartime, we preserved this culture and kept traditional techniques alive, continuing to support Soto Zen temples through difficult times.

1960s–70s

Growth & Development

As temple culture revived alongside postwar reconstruction, we trained craftsmen to meet growing demand and built a system for reliably delivering high-quality vestments and kesa.

1990s–2000s

Tradition Meets the Modern Era

We combined our long-cultivated tailoring skills with modern materials and techniques, meeting the needs of a changing era while preserving the essence of tradition.

2026 (Reiwa 8)

100th Anniversary

A century since our founding. From the same place, with the same spirit, we will continue supporting Soto Zen temples through vestments and ritual items. We take a new step toward the next hundred years.

Corporation

Corporate Profile

We are a Soto Zen vestment and kesa specialty shop located in Moto-Asakusa, Tokyo.

Since our founding in the 1920s, we have walked alongside Soto Zen temples and monks, earning trust through reliable craftsmanship.

With skilled techniques, deep knowledge of materials, and profound respect for Buddhist culture, we will continue to support your practice and activities through vestments and ritual items.

Company NameNakano Houiten Co., Ltd.
Founded1920s (Early Showa Era)
Address4-7-5 Moto-Asakusa
Taito-ku, Tokyo
111-0041, Japan
TEL/FAX+81-3-3843-0446
ProductsVestments, Kesa, Rakusu, Kairyoe, Hakue
Zafu & practice accessories, Tailoring & repair
DenominationSoto Zen Buddhism
Inquiry

Contact

Tel / Fax

+81-3-3843-0446

Email

nakano.houiten@gmail.com

Address

4-7-5 Moto-Asakusa
Taito-ku, Tokyo
111-0041, Japan

Access

5-minute walk from Inaricho Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza Line)
8-minute walk from Shin-Okachimachi Station (Toei Oedo Line)

Call Us
Nakano Houiten storefront Access
Please feel free to contact us with any questions about vestments or kesa. We will listen to your requirements — denominational rules, intended use, materials, and budget — and propose vestments suited to your needs.