John's Attic

Kotobuki is a character commonly used as a decorative element on fukusa. The actual meaning is long life; however, it has also taken on the connotation of congratulations or celebration. The character may appear in its modern Japanese form, in the older Chinese format, or in highly stylized forms – so stylized that they may not be readily recognized. Fukusa with kotobuki as the main design element may be used for any occasion other than for funeral gifts.