In Japanese, the word fuku carries two meanings: 福, symbolizing happiness and good fortune, and 服, meaning clothing. This story traces the journey of a single tree as it becomes a tool that supports your fuku—holding not only your garments, but also the good fortune woven into everyday life.
Born in the forest, beech wood is shaped by the hands of skilled craftsmen into hangers that support your most cherished clothing. Within this continuous cycle of nature and craftsmanship, we have found deep meaning. We commemorate through a special three-day anniversary held from February 7 to February 9. As these days hold particular significance for us as a wooden hanger maker, we would like to share the story behind each one.
February 7 — Domestic Beech Wood Day
In the past, our hanger-making was sustained by Japan’s beech forests. Today, while we carefully select European beech to ensure consistent quality and long-term sustainability, our roots remain firmly connected to the forests of Japan.
To honor this relationship, Nakata Kogei established Beech Wood Day. In Japanese, beech is called buna (ブナ)—where “bu” corresponds to the number 2 and “na” to 7—naturally aligning with the date itself. On this day, we invite you to reflect on the enduring connections between wood, craftsmanship, people, and Japan’s forests.
February 8 — Wooden Hanger Day
When the number “2” and the kanji “八” are placed together, they resemble the shape of a hanger. Inspired by this idea, February 8 was officially recognized as Wooden Hanger Day by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2021.
A wooden hanger is more than a tool for hanging clothes. It preserves the silhouette of treasured garments, prevents unnecessary stress on fabric, and represents one of the most thoughtful forms of garment care. Through this day, Nakata Kogei proposes the warmth unique to wooden products and a sustainable way of living—one rooted in choosing well and using a single item for many years.
Within the simple daily act of hanging your clothes, we hope to create moments that celebrate a love for fashion and a shared responsibility for the environment.
February 9 — Clothing Day
The story of these three days ultimately leads to what matters most, your clothing. Materials born from nature pass through the hands of craftsmen to support the garments you value, creating a continuous and meaningful flow.
Clothing Day centers on garments themselves—resting on wooden hangers—and invites us to rediscover their true worth. Caring for a favorite piece and wearing it for many years is an expression of respect for your own lifestyle and a quiet yet powerful step toward a more sustainable future.
On this day, we encourage you to deepen your connection with each garment in your closet. Together, let us take a moment to appreciate the comfort and joy that come from enjoying fashion with care and intention.
These three days do not mean that we cherish and honor wood only during this brief time. Our gratitude toward nature is present every day, and we remain committed to protecting it through responsible craftsmanship. We make full use of every piece of wood, ensuring that nothing is wasted or left behind in landfills—even years into the future.
Join us in celebrating these three meaningful days with NAKATA HANGER, and continue the journey of care, craftsmanship, and sustainability.