Panama Hats Gaining Attention in Heatwave, Actually Not from Panama: Ecuador's Ambassador Reveals the Truth of 'Toquilla Hats'

Tokiyado Hyakkaten (operated by Socius Inc.), a specialty store for high-end men's hats, has released a special video introducing the true origins of hats commonly known as "Panama hats," in cooperation with the Embassy of Ecuador in Japan.

Amidst the ongoing nationwide heatwave, Panama hats are attracting attention as a measure against the sun's rays. However, their origins are surprisingly not well-known.

In this video, the Ambassador of Ecuador to Japan appears and explains the history, cultural background, and charm of the "Toquilla hat."

The Truth About "Panama Hats" Unknown to Many Japanese People

In reality, Panama hats did not originate in Panama but were born in Ecuador. They are called "Toquilla hats" in their native land.

Toquilla hats are traditional hats meticulously hand-woven by artisans, using fibers from the "toquilla straw" plant native to Ecuador.

Lightweight and highly breathable, they have been cherished locally for a long time because they can be worn comfortably even under the strong equatorial sun.

This traditional craftsmanship was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2012, making it one of Ecuador's representative cultural assets.

Why are they called Panama Hats?

It is believed that the name "Panama hat" became established in the early 20th century when hats exported from Ecuador spread worldwide via Panama, and further popularized by photographs of President Roosevelt wearing one during his inspection of the Panama Canal.

Message from the Representative

While the name "Panama hat" is widely known, the Ecuadorian culture and craftsmanship behind it are not yet fully understood. By speaking directly with the Ambassador of Ecuador this time, I myself have once again learned about its profound depth. I would be delighted if this video could serve as an opportunity for people to become interested in world cultures through hats.

Mitsuru Kawachika, Representative Director, Socius Inc.

Video Overview

Title: [Ambassador Explains] Not Panama Hats!? The Truth About "Toquilla Hats," Actually Originating in Ecuador

URL: https://youtu.be/tte_MScdhzU

Channel: Tokiyado Hyakkaten Hat Club https://www.youtube.com/@tokiyado-hat

[Ambassador Explains] Not Panama Hats!? The Truth About "Toquilla Hats," Actually Originating in Ecuador

About Tokiyado Hyakkaten

Tokiyado Hyakkaten is a specialty hat store dealing in high-end men's hats from Japan and abroad.

With the concept "No man is without a hat that suits him," we handle over 4,000 types of hats, including fedoras, homburgs, and caps, carefully selected from brands worldwide.

At our store in Tachikawa City, Tokyo, customers can try on a wide selection of hats, and our online store delivers the joy of hats to customers nationwide.

In addition to selling hats, we are also committed to activities that convey hat culture, artisan techniques, and the history and stories behind them. On our YouTube channel, "Tokiyado Hyakkaten Hat Club," we share information on how to choose hats, coordination, brand histories, and world hat cultures.

The store name "Tokiyado" is derived from "Toquilla," the plant native to Ecuador that is the raw material for Panama hats. Our encounter with Ecuadorian hat culture became the origin of our current business.

◆ Online Store "Tokiyado Hyakkaten"

https://www.tokiyado.com/

◆ Store Location

Address: 5F, Building 25, Tachikawa Real Estate, 1-100 Takamatsu-cho, Tachikawa-shi, Tokyo 190-0011

Access:

- From the North Exit of Tachikawa Station on the JR Chuo Line, transfer to Tachikawa-Kita Station on the Tama Monorail, get off at the first stop, "Takamatsu Station." Approximately 1 minute walk from the "Takamatsu-cho 1-chome" exit. - Approximately 15 minutes walk from JR Tachikawa Station.

Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday - Saturday)

Store in Tachikawa City, Tokyo