A noren is a Japanese fabric, usually with one or more vertical slits, that is hung in a doorway. They can be used for decoration or to separate a room. Originally, they were used practically to block wind, dust and sun from entering a store or restaurant.

Now a days, they are probably more decorative than anything else. Artwork, calligraphy or businesses logos are the typical designs. I like how Leica used this traditional element in their wonderful Leica Store Kyoto. The contrast of the famous “Red Dot” printed on a textured off white fabric is certainly a nice touch.

I shot this as I exited the store. Really more of a snapshot. However, the Olympus PEN-F in monochrome mode, unexpectedly rendered the background dark and the light fabric appeared almost like a work of art. I suppose, if I were diligent, I should post process to make the background completely black. I opted instead to show the image as shot, except for some cropping.