What is Mizuhiki?

Mizuhiki 水引 is a beautiful ancient Japanese art form of tying decorative knots using cords made with a paper core, tightly twisted and coloured or coated in dyes, silk or metallic film.

Its rich history has led to the knot carrying many different meanings depending on the number of cords used, the colour or even the type of knot that is tied.

Part of Japan’s respectful and thoughtful culture is the heartfelt and time-honoured traditions of gift giving using Mizuhiki to decorate money wallets often given for wedding, births, funerals and key life events.

Mizuhiki’s traditional use has a much deeper meaning than just decoration. It communicates the deep thought and respect of the giver by the time and careful skill required to tie the knot as well as the gift it represents.

The Mizuhiki knot is intended to be unopened until it reaches the recipient, a sacred part of Mizuhiki’s history. It is also said to ward off evil spirits.

In more modern times however it has now made its way into in a wide array of areas such as jewellery, accessories, homeware, art work and given as good luck charms. 

History of Mizuhiki

There seems to be several theories about the exact origins of Mizuhiki. Popular belief is that that a diplomatic envoy to the Sui Dynasty in China, returned with gifts that were tied and decorated with red and white dyed hemp strings. 

Subsequently it is said that red and white threads were used to wrap gifts and offering to the Imperial Court back in the 7th century.

Initially, Mizuhiki were adorned by the warrior and aristocratic classes and signified prestige in ceremonies. Over time, Mizuhiki transformed into opulent, complex forms for weddings. Elaborate knotting, featuring cranes, turtles, pine, bamboo, and plum motifs, reflected affluence.

During the Sengoku period, the "hana musubi" or "flower knot" gained popularity, but its significance evolved. Samurai daimyo, concerned about poisoned tea, had tea masters tie bags of tea powder in complex, untamperable knots called "fuji musubi" or "sealing knots" to ensure the safety of their tea ceremonies.

These untraceable knots, served as foolproof security measures, ensuring the safety of the tea - much like an ancient intruder alarm!

sources:

• Modern Mizuhiki Association
• Niponica magazine