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Let's Dive Into Japanese Cultre: Yukata & Kimono
We often hear about yukatas and kimonos but do we actually know the difference between them?
Kimono ۰ きもの ۰ 着物
The kimono is a very traditional and extravagant kind of Japanese clothing, if we compare a kimono to our Western standards, people often recall them as a tuxedo or a ballgown.
When would you usually wear a kimono?
Kimonos are typically worn for attending tea ceremonies or even fancy restaurants. They can also be worn at weddings and other special events.
Parts of a kimono
Kimonos have a lot of different components but a “nagajuban” (a kimono-shaped robe worn by men and women) should traditionally be worn under a kimono, whereas anything can be worn under a yukata.
Kimonos can change depending on your marital status and age, resulting in different coloured kimonos with different patterns and sleeve lengths.
Yukata ۰ ゆかた ۰ 浴衣
The yukata is known to be a casual version of the kimono and is a versatile garment. Yukata translates into 'bathing cloth' and looks like a bathrobe.
Let’s quickly go back to historical times…
Back in the day the yukata was used as a bridge between one's home and the bathhouse, which is why they weren’t supposed to be worn outdoors. Due to the weight of the kimono's many different components, the yukata was deliberately made using lighter materials such as cotton and linen. As the yukata wasn’t as complicated as kimonos, people tended to prefer wearing yukatas.
When would you usually wear a yukata?
Yukatas can be worn for less formal events such as going grocery shopping, visiting small festivals or onsen (hot spring) resorts. They are also frequently seen at summer festivals like the hanabi (firework) festival due to their breathable material.
Experiencing Yukata
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At LingoClass, we understand the importance of learning about Japanese culture alongside the Japanese language. That is why we put the wearing yukata experience into our curriculum.
The purpose of trying on Japanese yukata is not just for learning about Japanese culture, but for making memories with other students.
Instead of being dressed up, our teachers go through a step-by-step process so that you can learn how to wear yukata by yourself! We want students to experience Japanese lifestyle through this.
We hope you get to personally experience this one day in Japan! :D
ありがとうございます^^