The Bingo region in eastern Hiroshima Prefecture, renowned for its longstanding textile industry, now hosts one of the world's top denim producers, Kaihara Denim based in Fukuyama. Founded in 1893, the company began denim production in 1970. It supplies global brands like Uniqlo, Levi’s, and Edwin.
Hiroshima Prefecture's textile industry persists through high quality and innovative methods. The Bingo region has long been a hub for textile production, gaining global acclaim for denim fabric defined by its deep indigo color, known as “indigo blue,” which fades appealingly over time.
Based in Fukuyama, Kaihara was established in 1893 as a manufacturer of indigo-dyed kasuri, a traditional Japanese fabric featuring distinctive woven patterns. After various developments, it started producing denim in 1970 and now supplies its Kaihara Denim to major brands including Uniqlo, Levi’s, and Edwin, positioning it among the world's leading denim makers.
The local industry endures via family-run operations and hands-on maintenance, such as a son repairing machines to sustain his family's business, blending heritage with modern adaptations.