The Bullet Train, Shibuya Crossing, Godzilla… We’re sure you’ve heard of some if not all of these famous Japanese icons, but what about the “Bosozoku” (pronounced bo-o so-o zoku)? - They’re the 16-20 year old anti-establishment rebellious youth “gangsters” subculture that had the idea of stealing “Tsurikawa” off public transport. Without the Bosozoku, Tsurikawa would be like any other bus/train handle found around the world…

Why? There was a huge standoff between the Bosozoku and Police. Gang members decided to make a stand against the authorities, whilst also rebelling against society. In doing this, they chose to steal Tsurikawa from public transport, hang them off the back of their vehicles, dragging them along the road surface with the hope of destroying them. Essentially the Bosozoku stole and used Tsurikawa to say F-you to authorities and society in general.

What were they supposed to be used for? Tsurikawa - Tsuri (吊) - meaning to “hang”, and Kawa (革) - which translates as “leather”, these were the standing room only handles that adorned many forms of public transport, installed to allow passengers to hang onto and stop them from falling over when in motion. Now there’s more than just the one name used to describe these famous rings and straps… Some call them “Tsuriwa” - hanging “ring” (wa), and the transport authorities refer to them nowadays as “Tsurite” - hanging “hand” (te).

Why do people still hang them now? Unlike the Yo-yo, they simply haven’t gone out of fashion. They’re a sign of rebellion, and since their adopted use began, JDM fans have continued to adorn their rides with Tsurikawa as an expression of the freedom they re presented. These-days you’ll find Tsuri’s made from Plastic, Bamboo, Hardwood and hand crafted Resin, most commonly with a strap made from Polyester or leather.

Why did we redesign the (Tsurika)Wa [again]? Tsurikawa design has evolved many times over the years, starting with the temporary leather strap ban during WW2, and the 1950’s influence of Plastics with their increasing use in manufacturing brought the second change.

Our re-design introduces Traditional knotting techniques dating back to 1200BC, with each Tsurikawa bearing a Tanko styled armoured Kabuto (Samurai helmet), and Samurai Maedate (The crest attached to the front of helmet), which would represent a specific clan, unit, rank, personality trait or mythical symbols to invoke a divine power, bravery, cunning). Each of our Tsurikawa are made overseas by artisans, taking over an hour to produce each one.

Get yours today, and be guarded by your very own Samurai out on the open roads…