SKU: RECT-KANJI-WHITE-MATCH-COVER
Woven into our Kanji fabric is an ancient Japanese poem, a reflection of impermanence and self-transcendence:
"The fragrant, colored flowers are delicately scattered.
Who can remain unchanged in this world?
Transcend the present world, do not dream fleeting dreams, do not act out."
This poem is attributed to Ikkyū Sōjun (一休宗純, 1394–1481), a renowned Japanese Zen Buddhist monk and poet known for expressing profound truths in a direct, and poetic manner. The poem reflects the Zen Buddhist concept of impermanence, reminding us that all things, no matter how beautiful, are fleeting. Flowers serve as a powerful reminder of this, as their brief bloom symbolizes life’s transience.
The second half of the poem, “Do not dream fleeting dreams,” embodies a fundamental Zen teaching: to let go of our desires. In Zen Buddhism, clinging to worldly attachments leads to suffering, as we endlessly seek to fulfill fleeting dreams that will never truly satisfy us.
Our Kanji fabric weaves a timeless artistry with wisdom, reminding us to embrace life’s impermanence and celebrate the fleeing beauty of the present moment.
Buckwheat Hull Pillows
Customize the look and firmness of your J-Life Buckwheat Hull Pillow, or Soba Gara Makura, with our Japanese pillow covers and loose buckwheat hull (available by the pound).
Our handmade buckwheat pillow covers allow you to easily transfer the buckwheat pillow filling from an existing pillow cover into a different one, so you can refresh the look of your Japanese bedding, or replace a damaged/ worn pillowcase.
Traditional Japanese Comfort
Faithful to Japanese tradition, your sobakawa pillow case is composed of:
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An outer sheath that functions like a pillowcase and is available in White Ultra Sateen or in the same matching fabric as the outer case. In Japan, the color white is considered sacred and is associated with purity, humility, and cleanliness. It holds great significance in the Shinto religion.
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An outer case made with 100% cotton imported traditional Japanese fabric.
Sizes
Our buckwheat pillows are available in two styles: the buckwheat neckroll pillow and the rectangular buckwheat pillow (each sold separately).
Rectangular Buckwheat Pillow: 13" x 18"
Buckwheat Neck Pillow: 3.5" x 15"
Visit our blog to learn more about the benefits of Soba Gara Makura and to view our care guide.