Miss World Japan 2025 Finalists Visit Showa Nishikawa's Feather Comforter Factory

A Glimpse into the Heart of Sleep: Miss World Japan 2025 Finalists Visit Showa Nishikawa's Factory

On September 18, 2025, a group of 25 finalists from Miss World Japan 2025, accompanied by 2023's representative Manya Negishi, toured the feather comforter reform factory owned by Showa Nishikawa in Honjo City, Saitama Prefecture. This event was part of Showa Nishikawa's initiative to contribute to a sustainable future, resonating with the Miss World philosophy of making a difference through beauty.

The Intersection of Feather Production and Environmental Issues

The visit commenced with a seminar led by Shigehiro Kawai, a director at the company, focusing on the characteristics of feathers, their ties to the meat production industry, and the pressing environmental concerns surrounding them. Showa Nishikawa is actively championing the 12th goal of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — 'Responsible Consumption and Production.' In Tokyo alone, approximately one million comforters are incinerated each year, making them the most disposed item in terms of bulky waste.

As societal awareness shifts from a consumer-driven culture to a circular economy, more individuals are opting for 'reuse' over 'discard.' When properly maintained, feathers can be a natural resource reused for over a century. Responding to the increasing demand for reform, Showa Nishikawa will establish the largest feather comforter reform factory in Japan in Honjo City by April 2024.

Insights from the Factory Tour

Following the seminar, the finalists were escorted through the factory to witness the meticulous process of dismantling feather comforters and the comprehensive washing of feathers. Many finalists expressed their surprise at learning that feather comforters could be recycled and acknowledged the gravity of global issues like environmental problems, appreciating the profound experience.

The Feather Comforter Reform Process

The reform process includes: 1. Dismantling the feather comforter, 2. Cleaning, dusting, and drying the extracted feathers, 3. Adding additional feathers, and 4. Filling into new fabric. Finally, thorough checks ensure no foreign materials are present before shipment. Each comforter is processed individually under strict management to avoid mixing with others.

Understanding Miss World

Miss World is one of the three major international beauty contests and has the longest history, attracting representatives from the largest number of countries. Since its inaugural event in London in 1951, it has been held annually, with representatives currently selected from 131 nations and regions.

Visit the Official Miss World Japan Website