Shugi bukuro Envelopes

shugibukuro envelopes for presenting gifts of money in celebratory occasions, as well as special kinpu envelopes, used as well for presenting gifts of money as condolences. Most of the time, the daishi covering such envelopes is made from sun-bleached mulberry. The whiteness of such washi reflects the heart of the giver, representing purity, sanctity and proper behavior, among other things.

The mizuhiki cord made of twisted paper is adorned by a shiny golden and silver “treasure boat,” making this as beautiful as a piece of art! The condolence money is placed within a sheer-white piece of washi paper, and the kinpu envelope is fastened with either a black-and-white (bottom center), silver (bottom right), or white mizuhiki ribbon depending on religious affiliation or denomination. Some religions or denominations allow the usage of patterns such as lotuses or lilies. The half-yellow, half-white mizuhiki (bottom left) is standard in parts of the Kansai and Hokuriku regions of Japan, such as Kyoto.