During the Edo period, samurai traveled frequently between their home domains and Edo, driven by obligations such as sankin-kotai (alternate attendance). Consequently, many examples of dochu-gappa (traveling cloaks) made from kuzu-fu(kudzu-fiber cloth) remain well-preserved today.
Kudzu cloth's natural lightness, water resistance against rain and snow, and quick-drying qualities made it ideal all-weather outerwear. This specific garment is exceptionally long, making summer wear improbable; it was likely used during winter for warmth. Thanks to a dense weave using cotton warp threads, it provided surprising thermal insulation. The collar is crafted from silk, and side slits allow a worn sword to pass through.
 
Dimensions: Length 132.5 cm / Width 126 cm  
Thread Density: Warp 10 threads/cm / Weft 17 threads/cm  
Materials:Warp: Cotton / Weft: Kudzu fiber  
Dye: Indigo  
Period: Late Edo period 18th-19th century
Collection: Oigawa Kudzu-fu