FUROSHIKI meaning "Japanese Wrapping Fabric"was originally used as laundry-basket- like ground fabric in bathroom in Nara period.It was also used in Muromachi Period, when the courtiers were invited to big bathhouse which was built by General Yoshimitsu Ashikaga.

In Edo period, FUROSHIKI was used by civilians as locker to keep their belongings when they go to public bathhouse. It was also used and put under futon bedding, so that people can escape immediately is case of fire at night. 
After peddlers use FUROSHIKI to carry selling stuffs on the street, Japanese FUROSHIKI began to spread widely.