Japanese Tradition in Accessories! “Teitetsu” Born From the Equestrian Culture of Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture
Category: Goods
I’m Hakoboya,╰(·ᴗ·)╯ the Souvenir Promotion Captain for Kodawari Times. In my articles, I introduce unique souvenirs born in Japan’s regions.
This time, we’re in Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture, in the Tohoku region. Here, the traditional event “Soma Nomaoi” has been held for over a thousand years. I’d like to introduce “Teitetsu,” accessories inspired by this historic equestrian culture. Learn about their origin story and the feelings poured into Teitetsu—why not choose them as a Japanese souvenir?
The Story of Teitetsu’s Birth
A craft brand born from a town with zero residents
“Teitetsu” is crafted by iriser, a handmade glass brand based in Odaka Ward, Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture.
This area became a town where “both people and lights vanished” for about five years after the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011, forcing all residents to evacuate.
In 2019, driven by the desire to “give form to the feelings that only we, living and working in Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture, can create,” iriser was launched. Women who overcame the earthquake and evacuation, looking forward to the future, create these pieces as lampworkers (glass artisans).
Shaping the Spirit of Minamisoma’s Traditional Event, the Soma Nomaoi
The charm of iriser accessories lies in their locally inspired motifs and simple, understated textures. Among these, the “Teitetsu” series draws inspiration from the horse culture deeply rooted in Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture.
The Soma Nomaoi, a sacred ritual praying for regional peace and tranquility, has been held for over a thousand years. It’s a festival with the dramatic power of a Warring States period scroll painting, featuring nearly 400 mounted warriors clad in armor galloping through the streets.
Provided by: Soma Nomaoi Executive Committee
For the people of Minamisoma City, horses have been passed down not merely as a means of transportation or labor, but as prayers, pride, and the very spirit of the community itself. The horseshoe—a U-shaped metal protector for a horse’s hoof and a symbol of this legacy—is a special motif embodying the meanings of “protection, wishes, and connection.”
As an accessory embodying Minamisoma’s history, culture, and the artisan’s passion, it’s a one-of-a-kind item you’ll want to tell someone about.
Teitetsu Product Lineup
Teitetsu series features a simple yet striking form.
Its design blends naturally into both everyday life and special occasions, making it a universal design suitable for anyone regardless of age, gender, or nationality.
Each piece is meticulously finished by hand by artisans, offering the added charm of a human touch.
Choose your favorite from our extensive lineup, including necklaces, earrings, and pin brooches.
Necklace
Material: Chain / Slide ball / “iriser” tag: Nickel-free brass
Size: Glass size: 12×12×17(mm) Chain length: 50cm (using slide ball)
Price: ¥7,700
Earrings
Material: U-shaped earring: Surgical stainless steel 316 nickel-free / Chain / Round jump ring: Nickel-free brass / Clasp: Resin
Size: Glass size: 12×12×17(mm)
Price: ¥8,800
Clip-on Earrings
Material: Chain-and-Crimp Earrings: Nickel-Free Brass / Silicone Cover
Size: Glass Size: 12×12×17(mm)
Price: ¥8,800
[Teitetsu Series Details]
Product Name: Teitetsu
Release Date: March 5, 2019
Sales Locations: Online Sales & Atelier iriser Workshop Sales
※Workshop: 1-87 Motomachi, Odaka Ward, Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture (Inside Odaka Pioneer Village)
Details URL: https://iriser.store/collections/teitetsu
Bring good luck with “Teitetsu”
“iriser” Teitetsu Series embodies the history and artisans’ passion of Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture. Horseshoes have long been cherished as “items that bring good luck,” making them perfect as travel charms.
Moreover, the image of a horse galloping forward with strength resonates with the spirit of “iriser,” which began crafting from scratch.
Wearing a Tetsu accessory should give you the courage to take a step toward a brighter future!
By the way, this year’s Soma Nomaoi is scheduled for May 23rd to 25th, 2026 (※Armored Horse Racing on the 24th). Why not visit Minamisoma City during this time?
▼Soma Nomaoi Official Website
https://soma-nomaoi.jp/
