From viral hit to real product with the help of fans online!
When the illustration above turned into a hit online last year, we suspect the artist maruco never really expected to see it turn into a real product. But a cool idea is a cool idea, regardless of its source, so it was really only a matter of time before the “blooming” umbrella became a thing you could buy!
▼ Next step will be getting the dress in stores too!
The illustration eventually caught the eye of a staff member at Wakutsuku!, a company that helps turn people’s ideas into actual products. We imagine for someone like that this design is impossible to resist — and based on the images they’ve added to their crowdfunding campaign, we have a feeling this will be a huge success.
▼ YUUUUGE!
As you can see above, when opened up, the umbrella looks like a beautiful Japanese morning glory blossom! Even better is the umbrella case, pictured below, that you can get with it…it turns your folded up blossom into a bud just waiting to bloom.
▼ We can’t decide which form we like best!
Heck, you could also just get the case and use it with any old umbrella you have lying around, though it probably won’t be nearly as much fun to open it up that way.
The umbrella is currently pending completion of its Campfire crowdfunding campaign. They’re nearly 2/3 of the way done with more than 34 days left, though, so we have a feeling they’ll finish without any problem. You can get in on the umbrella action here, but only if you live in Japan or have someone who can help you. Sadly, Campfire does not allow people living overseas to back campaigns. That said, you might be able to use a reshipping service to help you if you’re really desperate. The cases are available for 1,500 yen (about US$14) and a set with the umbrella and case is 4,700 yen (about $44).
▼ We have to say, it is a very pretty umbrella!
And if you can’t get involved in the crowdfunding campaign, we imagine they’ll eventually release the umbrellas in retail. But until then, you can sooth your aching heart watching Mr. Sato try on this crazy outfit he found in Harajuku!
References: Campfire
Featured image: Pixiv/maruco
Images: Campfire
[ Read in Japanese ]
Awesome Air Umbrella from China keeps you dry with blasts of air
New “rolling” umbrella with wheels lets you take it for a stroll on rainy days
What time is it? Time for a Cardcaptor Sakura watch, and an umbrella too, while you’re at it!
Beyond sakura: How to tell a cherry blossom from a plum or peach flower
Plan to use historic stones to build restrooms for the 2025 Expo draws criticism
Tokyo has only two barley tea makers, and we visited one to see how mugicha is made
Sanrio Character Poll announces winners, Hello Kitty absent from top 10 in many countries
Live-action Spirited Away stage play announces world tour with first-ever U.S. and Canadian dates
Sleep at Hoshinoya Nara Prison, one of the most unique hotels in Japan
Studio Ghibli combines anime and craftsmanship in new Totoro and Jiji Gobelin tapestry bags
We try out the joys of Japan’s kakuuchi wine vending machine
Speed trap camera stolen from Saitama Police while in use
Why you shouldn’t feel guilty about using manga for studying and the top series for learning
Japan’s new pettably fuzzy cat-shaped earbud chargers meow to let you know their status[Video]
Blind Tokyo commuter explains the easiest place for him to stand while riding the train
Japan launches first overnight Shinkansen bullet train between Tokyo and Osaka this summer
Family Mart Japan installs red-eyed “Monster Wolf” to keep bears away from convenience store
Starbucks Japan reopens Shinkansen platform store after redesigning it for speed
Japan announces sudden 400-percent increase in visa fees for foreigners entering the country
Pikachu brings electric style to brand-new Pokémon G-Shock watch featuring every stater trio
Japanese man’s gross conveyor belt sushi social media prank video gets him a 500,000-yen fine
Starbucks Japan creates special drink bottle bags, adorable stickers for all 47 prefectures[Pics]
Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad
Studio Ghibli store Donguri Republic announces opening of first-ever store in America
New Japanese overnight train coming to connect Tokyo with Tohoku in sleep-travel style
Uniqlo reveals third round of massive 100-year-anniversary manga T-shirts for Jump’s Shueisha
Even at twice regular Daiso price, this handy item is still great for summer travel in Japan
Japanese sweets shop sells an ohagi so exquisite it sells out by noon
Forget Tokyo go-karts – there’s a new way to sightsee on four wheels in Japan
Japanese sweets brand creates new drinkable Cigare and we’re totally here for it
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
We deeply regret going into this tunnel on our walk in the mountains of Japan
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
Japan reportedly adding Japanese language skill requirement to most common foreigner work visa
Japan’s 5.3 million beautiful Hitachi Nemophila flowers are now in full bloom[Photos]
New bar coming to Tokyo lets you melt and roast your drinks from baby bottles or lightbulbs