Imabari Towels: Japan's Luxurious Secret to Soft, Absorbent Comfort

Imagine stepping out of a relaxing onsen bath in Japan, and reaching for a towel to dry off. 

As you wrap yourself in the plush fabric, you can't help but marvel at how incredibly soft and absorbent it feels against your skin. 

Chances are, you've just experienced the magic of an Imabari towel.

Imabari towels aren't just any ordinary towels – they are top tier in the towel world, boasting a balance of softness, absorbency and durability.

What exactly sets Imabari towels apart from the rest? And why are they causing such a stir among those in the know? 

What Are Imabari Towels?

Imabari towels hail from the city of Imabari in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. 

What makes them so special is not just their place of origin; it's a combination of quality materials, quality labor and centuries-old techniques that take these towels to legendary status.

First and foremost, Imabari towels are known for their exceptional absorbency. This quick-drying ability is as impressive as it is practical; less time spent toweling off and more time enjoying that post-bath glow.

Absorbency is just the beginning. These towels are also incredibly soft – we're talking cloud-like, kitten-fur soft. The secret lies in the high-quality cotton used in the unique manufacturing process. Imabari towels are typically made from long-staple cotton, which produces longer, smoother fibers. The end product is a towel that's gentle on your skin, making it ideal for even the most sensitive among us.

Another feature of Imabari towels is their durability. Imabari towels maintain their softness and absorbency wash after wash, making them a smart long-term investment for the bathroom, kitchen or poolside.

But perhaps what truly sets Imabari towels apart is the attention to detail in their production. Each towel undergoes a rigorous quality control process, ensuring that only the best make it to market. This commitment to excellence is embodied in the official Imabari towel certification, which we'll discuss coming right up.

From plush bath towels to compact hand towels and versatile washcloths, Imabari towels feature a range of products to suit every need – whether you're looking to upgrade your own bathroom or searching for a unique gift from Japan.

In The Heart Of Shikoku, The Birthplace Of Imabari Towels

Nestled on the western coast of Shikoku, Japan's smallest (and most remote) main island, lies the city of Imabari. This unassuming locale might not be on most tourists' radar, but in the world of textiles, it's practically legendary. 

The secret to Imabari's towel-making prowess? Location, location, location. The city is blessed with abundant soft water from the Sojagawa River, which flows from the Takanawa Mountains. This naturally soft water is crucial in the towel-making process, as it allows the cotton fibers to maintain their natural softness and absorbency.

But great water alone doesn't make a great towel. The production process of Imabari towels starts with selecting the finest cotton, often long-staple varieties like Sea Island cotton. This cotton is then spun into yarn, woven into fabric and subjected to a series of specialized processes.

One unique step in Imabari towel production is the "shigoki" process. This involves passing the towel through high-pressure rollers, which compresses the fibers and removes any excess water. The result? A towel that's incredibly absorbent right from the first use – no "break-in" period required!

A Rich, Luxurious History

The story of Imabari towels spans over a century. It all began in 1894 when a local man named Heiemon Ito brought the first mechanical looms to Imabari. This marked the birth of the region's textile industry, which would eventually become world-renowned for its towels.

In the early days, Imabari was known for producing traditional Japanese hand towels called "tenugui." But as Western-style towels gained popularity in Japan, the craftsmen of Imabari adapted their skills to this new product. 

The industry faced challenges, particularly during World War II and in the face of cheaper imports in the late 20th century. But the artisans of Imabari persevered, doubling down on quality and craftsmanship. This commitment to excellence has paid off, with Imabari towels now recognized globally as a premium product.

The Mark Of Quality: Imabari Towel Certification

Not all towels made in Imabari can bear the coveted "Imabari Towel" label. To earn this distinction, towels must pass a rigorous certification process established by the Shikoku Towel Industrial Association.

Hardly a mere formality, the certification process is a grueling test of quality. Towels must meet strict standards for water absorbency, color fastness and durability. One particularly impressive test involves dropping water onto the towel from a height. 

Fun fact: a genuine Imabari towel will begin absorbing the water within five seconds!

This certification process ensures that when you buy an Imabari towel, you're getting a product that lives up to its reputation. This is a mark of quality that the artisans of Imabari take great pride in maintaining.

Versatility In Use: From Bath to Kitchen

While Imabari towels are best known for their use in the bathroom, their superior quality makes them versatile enough for various applications. Of course, they shine as bath towels, enveloping you in softness after a shower or bath. But don't stop there!

Hand towels made with Imabari quality are perfect for the kitchen, able to handle spills and messes with ease. Their quick-drying properties make them ideal for this high-moisture environment. In the gym, an Imabari sports towel can be your best friend, wicking away sweat efficiently without becoming heavy or waterlogged.

Some people even use smaller Imabari towels as luxurious washcloths or face towels. Their gentleness on the skin makes them perfect for facial care routines.

Imabari vs. Regular Towels: The Superior Choice

What makes Imabari towels better than your average towel? 

Quality, performance and longevity.

Firstly, the absorbency of Imabari towels is hard to beat. They soak up water faster and more efficiently than regular towels, meaning you'll dry off quicker and more thoroughly. This quick-drying ability also means they're less likely to develop that musty smell that can plague damp towels (we can thank the hot, humid summers of Japan for these well-tested aspects).

Secondly, the softness of Imabari towels is in a league of its own. The high-quality cotton and specialized production processes result in a towel that feels luxurious against your skin, wash after wash.

Lastly, while Imabari towels might be more expensive upfront, their durability makes them a smart long-term investment. They maintain their quality over time, outlasting cheaper alternatives and providing a better experience throughout their lifespan.

Spotlight: The Epatant Sea Island Towel

Among the range of Imabari towels, the Epatant Sea Island Towel stands out as a superstar. 

What makes this particular Imabari towel so special? It all starts with the cotton.

Sea Island cotton is often referred to as the "cashmere of cotton." It's an extra-long staple cotton known for its exceptional softness, strength and luster. The Epatant Sea Island Towel harnesses these qualities to create a towel that's highly functional and a genuine pleasure to use.

These towels combine the trademark Imabari absorbency with an almost surreal level of softness. It's the kind of towel that makes you look forward to drying off. Plus, Sea Island cotton’s durability provides a luxurious experience you can enjoy day after day, year after year.

Top Imabari Towel Brands

While all certified Imabari towels are high-quality, some brands have distinguished themselves as leaders in the field. 

Here are a few to look for:

Onaru Towel

Nestled in the scenic Seto Inland Sea region, Onaru Towel is a cornerstone of Imabari City's renowned towel-making tradition. This innovative manufacturer has made its mark by continuously refining its craft to meet the evolving demands of discerning customers.

Onaru's commitment to quality shines through in their diverse product range. Their True Organic line showcases a groundbreaking approach, harnessing the power of herbs and organic ingredients to cultivate additive-free cotton. These towels, grown in pesticide and chemical-free soil, boast superior texture and absorbency, making them ideal for sensitive skin. Equally impressive is their Sea Island Cotton series, each towel bearing a unique serial number as proof of its authenticity. These luxurious towels employ a meticulous reverse-twisting technique, resulting in exceptionally durable threads. With production limited to just 30 towels per batch, Onaru ensures uncompromising quality in every piece. From organic thread selection to natural post-processing techniques, Onaru's dedication to sustainability and purity is evident in every step, resulting in towels that offer unparalleled comfort and a touch of luxury.

Hartwell

Hartwell, a towel maker with nine decades of history, has woven its expertise into something more than just fabric. At the core of Hartwell's craft are the Imabari towels. From the initial selection of yarn to the final inspection, every step is handled with care. Skilled artisans, known as stretchers, work their magic on delicate threads, creating the warp that forms the foundation of each towel. Hartwell's collection spans beyond towels, offering blankets and baby products, all crafted with the same dedication to quality and comfort that has defined the company for nearly a century.

Orim

The anticipation for Orim's entry into the Imabari towel market has been high. Well folks, the wait is over: Orim’s Imabari towels are finally available! Nestled in the heart of Imabari city, Orim has taken on the mantle of "Otehon," breathing new life into age-old weaving techniques and seamlessly integrating them into modern, everyday products. From the intricate process of warping to the delicate art of threading yarn through looms, each step in Orim's production is carried out with painstaking attention to detail – evident in every towel, shawl and accessory that bears the Orim name. 

Our Selection Of Imabari Towels: Which Is Right For You?

We’ve curated a fine selection of Imabari towels, each with its own uses and features. Which is right for you? Read on to find out!

Imabari Towel Japanese Face Towel and Washcloth Set

Designed in a jacquard pattern with waves, this set offers versatility for everyday use. The face towel and washcloth combination is Ideal for guests or as a starter set. These towels provide the renowned Imabari quality in a compact package – great for those who want to experience Imabari towel luxury and tradition without committing to larger bath towels.

Imabari Towel White Cotton Bath Towels 60 x 110cm (Set of 2)

Imagine stepping out of the shower (or Japanese bath) and drying off with an Imabari towel! This set of two white cotton towels is an excellent choice. At 60 x 110cm, they offer ample coverage for drying off after a shower or bath. The pure white color, in a jacquard wave design, gives these towels a timeless look that fits any bathroom decor. This set is perfect for couples or individuals who prefer to rotate their towels frequently.

True Organic Natural Cotton Imabari Bath Towel 65×130cm

Environmentally conscious consumers will appreciate this organic option from Onaru Towel. Slightly larger than the standard white cotton towels, this 65×130cm bath towel offers extra coverage. The natural cotton is grown without pesticides or chemicals, using additive-free cotton cultivated with the natural potency of herbs and other organic ingredients. This Imabari bath towel is an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin (great for the kids!) and/or folks who care about the environment. 

True Organic Natural Cotton Imabari Face Towel 31×85cm

This face towel from Onaru Towel is the perfect companion to the True Organic bath towel, or a great stand-alone option for those who prefer smaller towels. At 31×85cm, it's ideal for facial care routines or as a gym towel. Like its larger counterpart, it's made from pesticide-free cotton, making it gentle on sensitive facial skin. This towel is perfect for those who want to bring a touch of organic luxury to their daily skincare routine. Experience its exceptional texture and absorbency that caters to even the most delicate skin. The production process, from thread to label, adheres strictly to organic principles, culminating in a face towel that feels like a second skin. 

Épatant Sea Island Cotton Luxurious Imabari Bath Towel 67 x 140 cm

For those seeking the ultimate in towel luxury, the Épatant Sea Island Cotton towel is a centerpiece of our Imabari Towel collection. At 67 x 140cm, it's the largest option, providing a luxurious, enveloping after-bath experience. Made from rare and prized Sea Island cotton, known for its exceptional softness and durability, this towel will surround you with the Imabari way. The long-staple fibers create a fabric that's plush yet lightweight, eagerly wicking away moisture while drying with remarkable speed. This towel's resilience is equally impressive - it shrugs off the usual wear and tear, maintaining its integrity and refusing to fuzz or twist even after countless washes. 

Still not sure? Check out our entire collection of Imabari towels from leading makers in Japan:

• Onaru Towel
• Hartwell
• Orim

We’re sure you’ll find the right Imabari towel for your bath and home needs.

Give Yourself (and Friends & Family) The Gift Of Imabari Towels

Imabari towels represent a soothing, sumptuous experience, a little touch of luxury in your daily routine. 

Ideal for gifts from Japan, Imabari towels are also a fine addition to your home’s bath, kitchen and beyond.

Why settle for ordinary when you can wrap yourself in extraordinary?