The “flower arranging” group I joined, Ikebana, had a field trip today to visit the Kimono Museum after being dressed by local Japanese ladies in a kimono. This was my first time taking the train to Tokyo and I was happy to be apart of a big group. We switched trains at Yokohama. From there everything was new! Our route is pictured below.
Once we arrived at the museum, we were asked to remove our shoes and select a kimono we would like to wear. Notice the proper way the kimonos are folded. One of the ladies demonstrated the fold at the end of our session.
We were told in advance we would need to remove our clothes in order to have the kimono fitted to us. We were advised to wear a tank top and slip. Great advice!
We each had at least one, if not two ladies dressing us. They were super nice and very quick.
The kimono and Oni (belt) should not necessarily match. In fact, often they clash. It was explained that the fabric for the kimono and obi are selected by the personal preference of the individual. Also, this kimono was a lighter weight fabric – summer weight. The bow is also special. Each person who dresses has a unique way to tie the bow.
Another Japanese-ism is giving the peace sign, with palm facing forward.
After we were dresses, we went up to the museum. I found a new Japanese friend or two.
A picture of our whole group and the Japanese ladies who dressed us in the middle row.
My friend Dina and me dressed to impress.
Here are few interesting facts about the kimono. When a woman is single, the arms of the kimono are very long. Once she is married, she has the kimono sleeves cut and tailored. Also, the fabrics come in a variety of fabrics, weights and patterns. The figures in the kimono have meaning. Notice the patterns in the fabric behind me:
Lilies – health
Turtle – long life
Dragons – prosperity
Peacock – happiness
Several layers of kimonos are also worn to in more formal settings.
Pictured here are a samari and his wife. Notice the many layers of kimonos. They represent formality and royalty. Up to 30 layers could be worn weighing up to 40 pounds!
Please also notice the eyebrows. Once a woman was married, she would shave her eyebrows and repaint them!
After we removed our kimonos, one of the head ladies showed us how to properly fold the kimono. It was more complicated than folding a fitted sheet! Like kimono origami!
I’m really glad to have this experience! I love learning more and more about the Japanese culture. Something new everyday!!
PS. We walked back to the train station via the famous Shibuya crossing. It was amazing! So many people!
