The May Zodiac Sign “Mi”｜Ikedaya’s Exclusive Koshu Inden with a Snake Motif
In Japan, the twelve zodiac signs, known as junishi, have long been used to indicate years, directions, and even times of day.
This system originally came from ancient China. Each of the twelve divisions is represented by an animal, and these animals have been used to express the cycle of the seasons and certain symbolic meanings.
The Zodiac Sign for May Is “Mi”
The zodiac sign for May is Mi.
Mi represents the snake.
In Japanese, snake is usually read as hebi. However, when used as one of the twelve zodiac signs, the kanji is 巳, and it is read as mi.
Snakes have been regarded as special animals in many cultures around the world.
In Japan as well, snakes are sometimes described as messengers of the gods, and they are associated with good fortune, financial luck, and renewal.
May is a season of fresh greenery, as spring gradually turns into early summer.
Because snakes shed their skin, they are also connected with ideas such as renewal and growth.
Ikedaya’s Exclusive Koshu Inden with the Mi Motif
Ikedaya offers limited-edition Koshu Inden items featuring motifs from the twelve zodiac signs.
Koshu Inden is a traditional Japanese craft made by applying lacquer patterns to deerskin leather. Ikedaya also offers original Inden designs based on the twelve zodiac signs.
Ikedaya’s exclusive Mi pattern combines the snake with the “∞” symbol, which represents infinity.
By depicting the snake, a symbol of life, in this shape, the design expresses the idea of long life: “life continuing endlessly.”
The pattern also includes uroko, or scale patterns, which are associated with protection from misfortune. It also features shippo, a traditional auspicious pattern that has long been connected with meanings such as abundance and good fortune.
While using traditional materials and techniques, the design has a calm look that is easy to carry in everyday life.
Ikedaya’s zodiac-patterned Inden items are also a simple way to enjoy Japanese seasonal and calendar culture.
The following items are available on the Ikedaya Global site:
1002 Change Purse - Japanese Zodiac Inden
2504 Card Case - Japanese Zodiac Inden
9854 Long Wallet with L-Shaped Zipper - Japanese Zodiac Inden
In our physical stores in Japan, you can find many other Koshu Inden items with zodiac patterns.
Koshu Inden items are available at our Tokyo Shinjuku Store, Shizuoka Store, and Hamamatsu Store.
The Shizuoka Store has the widest selection of Inden items.
Please feel free to visit us when you are nearby.
About IKEDAYA
Founded in 1950, Ikedaya is a Japanese brand best known for its signature Ikedaya Randoseru. We create high-quality, Japan-made bags beyond randoseru, including exclusive Ikedaya designs.
