Care and Storage of Hanging Scroll
Care and Storage of Kakejiku
Kakejiku are made from materials such as paper, silk, and decorative mounting fabrics, which can be sensitive to moisture and light.
By displaying them properly, checking their condition regularly, and storing them carefully, you can preserve their beauty for many years.
This guide explains everyday care, including where to display your kakejiku, how to handle it, and how to store it safely.
Choosing Where to Display Your Kakejiku
The environment in which you display your kakejiku plays an important role in keeping it in good condition.
Kakejiku can be displayed not only in a traditional Japanese alcove, but also in living rooms, entryways, shops, and offices. However, please avoid the following locations whenever possible.
Areas exposed to direct sunlight for long periods
Areas with high humidity
Areas directly exposed to air-conditioning
Areas exposed to steam from a humidifier
Kitchens and other areas where oil or smoke may be present
Near windows where condensation may occur
Direct sunlight may cause the artwork and mounting fabrics to fade or become discolored.
High humidity may also lead to staining and mold. Choose a well-ventilated location with minimal changes in temperature and humidity.
Do Not Leave Your Kakejiku Displayed Indefinitely
Although you do not need to change your kakejiku every day, leaving it displayed in the same location for an extended period may expose it to sunlight, humidity, and dust.
Changing your kakejiku according to the season or your mood allows the artwork to rest between periods of display.
During particularly humid seasons, such as the rainy season and summer, check the artwork regularly for mold, stains, or waviness.
Precautions When Handling Your Kakejiku
Before hanging or removing your kakejiku, make sure your hands are clean and dry.
Avoid touching the artwork itself or the surrounding mounting fabrics whenever possible. Oils and moisture from your hands may cause stains or discoloration.
When handling the kakejiku, carefully hold the hanging cord or the roller ends at the bottom.
When unrolling the kakejiku, do not suddenly release the roller, as it may drop quickly and place stress on the artwork. Support it with both hands and unroll it slowly.
How to Store Your Kakejiku
When your kakejiku is not being displayed, roll it carefully and place it inside its paulownia wood box or the storage box provided.
The storage box helps protect the kakejiku from dust, light, and sudden changes in humidity. When a box is included with the product, we recommend using it for storage.
The following types of locations are suitable for storage.
Areas away from direct sunlight
Dry, well-ventilated areas
Areas with relatively stable temperatures
Areas away from sinks and other water sources
Areas where heavy objects will not be placed on top of the box
When storing the kakejiku in a closet or storage cabinet, take care to prevent moisture from building up.
Moisture can accumulate near floors and walls, so leave a small amount of space between the storage box and these surfaces whenever possible.
Care During Humid Seasons
Humidity is one of the main causes of mold and staining on kakejiku.
During the rainy season or other periods of frequent rain, check the humidity in the storage area and use a dehumidifier when necessary.
On a clear, dry day, opening the storage area and the storage box to allow fresh air to circulate can also be helpful.
However, do not place the kakejiku in direct sunlight to dry it. Sudden drying and prolonged exposure to sunlight may damage the artwork and its mounting.
Long-Term Storage
Even when a kakejiku will not be displayed for an extended period, do not leave it stored without checking its condition occasionally.
When inspecting it, check for the following.
Mold or stains
Insect damage or small holes
Lifting or peeling of the mounting materials
Severe folds or wrinkles
Moisture or unusual odors inside the storage box
After checking its condition, carefully roll the kakejiku again in a low-humidity environment and return it to its storage box.
If You Notice Dust or Dirt
Even if dust or dirt appears on the surface of your kakejiku, do not wipe it with a damp cloth or cleaning detergent.
Paper, silk, pigments, ink, and mounting fabrics are extremely delicate. Rubbing the surface or applying moisture may cause bleeding, discoloration, or peeling.
If there is noticeable dirt, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Please consult a professional.
Dust on the outside of the storage box may be removed using a soft, dry cloth.
If the Kakejiku Has Developed a Curl
Because kakejiku are stored in a rolled position, a slight curl may be visible when they are first displayed.
A mild curl may gradually settle naturally after the kakejiku has been left hanging for some time.
If there are severe folds or deep wrinkles, do not pull the material by hand, place heavy objects on it, or use an iron.
Trying to flatten it by force may damage the artwork or mounting materials.
If You Find Mold or Stains
If you notice mold or stains, do not attempt to wipe or scrub them away.
Scrubbing mold may spread the spores or damage the surface of the artwork.
First, separate the affected kakejiku from other artworks and inspect it in a dry, well-ventilated area.
Professional restoration or remounting may be required in the following situations.
Mold has spread over a large area
Black or brown stains have appeared
The mounting materials are peeling
The artwork has significant folds or tears
The roller or hanging cord is becoming detached
There are signs of insect damage
Please send us photographs showing the condition of the kakejiku, and we will review them and advise you accordingly.
Care Methods to Avoid
Please avoid the following methods, as they may damage your kakejiku.
Wiping with water or detergent
Using alcohol or disinfectant spray
Applying an iron
Using hot air from a hair dryer
Drying the kakejiku in direct sunlight
Pulling wrinkles forcefully by hand
Scrubbing mold with a brush or cloth
Repairing it with tape or adhesive
Placing heavy objects on folds to flatten them
The appropriate restoration method depends on the materials and construction of each kakejiku. We recommend consulting a professional before attempting any treatment yourself.
How to Enjoy Your Kakejiku for Many Years
Kakejiku are part of a uniquely Japanese tradition in which artworks are changed according to the season and the atmosphere of a space.
By keeping your kakejiku away from direct sunlight and humidity, and carefully rolling and storing it when it is not on display, you can reduce stress on the artwork.
Please remember the following five points for everyday care.
Avoid direct sunlight and strong lighting
Avoid humidity and direct airflow from air-conditioning
Avoid touching the artwork and mounting fabrics directly
Roll the kakejiku and return it to its box when it is not on display
Do not attempt to repair or treat any damage yourself
Check the condition of your kakejiku regularly and enjoy the way it complements different seasons and interior spaces.
Contact Us About Kakejiku Care
The appropriate care method depends on the materials used, the age of the artwork, and the mounting technique.
If you notice mold, stains, folds, wrinkles, or peeling mounting materials, please do not attempt to repair them yourself. Feel free to contact us for advice.
Please send us a photograph showing the entire kakejiku, along with close-up photographs of the affected areas. We will review its condition and provide guidance.