Different areas in Japan have their own unique style of traditional brocade, such as Nishijin-Ori. Ms. Toshimi Kanda has long been wanting to use these wonderful fabrics and create luxury goods of worldwide standards. In 2015, she launched a new business and started to source a fabric that would allow us to fulfill this dream.

This became a reality when she encountered one particular type of pile fabric produced in Wakayama, known as Kinkazan-ori. This fabric had already been recognized locally and internationally as one of the finest interior materials that were only used to decorate the finest furnishings.

Ms. Toshimi Kanda is from Wakayama, so it was important for her to reflect this in the brand’s name. KIWAKA was conceived from Kishu (KI), which is the previous name of Wakayama, and the current name of Wakayama (WAKA). From that moment, KIWAKA was born. Owning a piece of KIWAKA is like owning a fine jewel.

Along with the bags, Ms. Toshimi Kanda developed the original design of the Jewel Zip Top TM. The zip is finished in a refined gold color to perfectly compliment the gorgeous “KINKAZAN” fabric. This special touch, together with the beautiful fabric, creates a unique and elegant product.

Ms. Toshimi Kanda believes this original Zip Top design is the first in the world and has been registered with the Japan Patent Office. In 2019, she created the “SAMURAI Rose” series with 18K yellow gold and natural diamonds. It is created by jewelry craftsmen. There are 9 Swarovski stones used to finish off the Jewel Zip Top TM which gives an added feeling of luxury