Folding fan at Hakuchikudo
FOLD YOUR FAN AND BOLD FUN.
A folding fan is called "sensu" in Japan. It is often used as an accessory for kimono and daily use is totally OK. (Personally, I think it's cool.) Sensu originated from uchiwa (round fan) that was introduced by China and developed the round uchiwa into folding type.
Use of sensu diverse to some grounds, everyday use (when folded, becomes very compact.) Japanese dancing, and rakugo (traditional storytelling). It is also used in celebration like a marriage because it represents good fortune. Sensu is also known as "suehiro" which means that broadening toward the end. When sensu is opened, its shape becomes widened which Japanese believed rising prosperity.
In addition, designs that are painted on sensu are normally bamboos, ume (Japanese plum), cranes, pine trees, and turtles with gold, silver, white and red which also symbolize good fortune and a long life.
For these reasons, folding fans are indispensable item for various ceremonial occasions.
Personally, this is way better souvenir than sweets and food. Because it remains its form for long time as long as you won't try eating.
Hakuchikudo.
They has nearly 300 years of history. There are 3 shops in Kyoto, and online store (domestic shipping only).
Their products are high quality, price range is reasonable to premium, so you can find most suitable for your use.
Here are some of their products.
Where to buy: "Hakuchikudo"
Main store
Address: 448, Shirakabecho, Nakagyo-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 604-8075
Open Hours:
10:00 to 18:00 (September to April)
10:00 to 19:00 (May to August)
Holidays:
Wednesday (September to April)
No holidays during May to August.
Access:
10 min walk from Sanjo station and Kawaramachi station.
7 min walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho station.
Sanjodori store
Address: 223, Eirakucho, Nakagyo-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 604-8071
Open Hours:
11:00 to 18:00 (September to April)
11:00 to 19:00 (May to August)
Holidays:
No holidays except for new year holidays.
Access:
7 min walk from Sanjo station.
5 min walk from Kyoto Shiyakusho station.
Yasakano store
Address: 87-7, Hoshinocho, Higashiyama-ku Kyoto-shi, Kyoto, 605-0853
Open Hours:
10:00 to 18:00 (September to April)
10:00 to 19:00 (May to August)
Holidays:
No scheduled holidays.
Access:
5 min walk from Kiyomizumichi bus stop.
Their product's price depend on design and material used.
What I suggest is to look up their online store and find your favorite. You could tell how much it would cost even though the language and currency is in Japanese.
Hakuchikudo official site.
Take a pic and bring it to the store you'll be going.
