Haori and hakama are essential components of traditional Japanese fashion, typically worn during festivals, coming-of-age ceremonies, and other big life events, similar to kimono. Continue reading to learn about these garments and how you can experience this part of Japanese culture for yourself.
What Is A Haori?
A Haori is a formal overcoat worn over your kimono. They are recognizable by the length, most commonly found as jacket or floor-length. The usage varies depending on age and gender of the wearer - it's more common for older women to wear them, but younger girls might also get dressed in one if they're feeling fancy!
Exaplanation by Wiki:
"The haori (羽織) is a traditional Japanese hip- or thigh-length jacket worn over a kimono. Resembling a shortened kimono with no overlapping front panels (okumi), the haori typically features a thinner collar than that of a kimono, and is sewn with the addition of two thin, triangular panels at either side seam. The haori is usually tied at the front with two short cords, known as haori himo, which attach to small loops sewn inside the garment" (Source 1)
Who Wears Haori?
In the past, men would wear haori overcoats in battle to protect themselves from cold weather. Nowadays they are typically worn by women as jackets and cover-ups for their kimono.
Today, with Japanese people rarely wear traditional clothing these days it is always best to see them at theaters or on stage where you can catch a glimpse of this beautiful tradition that has been passed down through generations which preserves more than just warmth but also an important part of Japan's culture
The popular game of two person haori has been going on for centuries. It requires one player to act as the arms and another as their head so they can play a variety of games, like brushing hair or feeding them food with toothpicks.
What Is A Hakama?
Japanese culture is fascinating and hakama are an integral part of it. These pant-like garments worn over a kimono, affix with strings to make walking easier while wearing a full Japanese outfit that would otherwise trip you up when taking larger steps.
The hakama has a rich history and is commonly worn by men in the past, but it also was not exclusively reserved for them. Samurai were often seen wearing this style of clothing which made it easier to ride horses while people could easily run through their legs without constriction. Men who participated on Shinto rituals or worshipers at shrines would wear these as well; however they weren't so common among farmers and merchants because they did not have any need for such garments.
When To Wear Hakama?
It is no wonder that the Hakama has been so successful as a garment for women. It looks good on everyone, and with an array of colors to choose from your outfit will be uniquely yours! The best part about wearing this traditional Japanese formal wear? You can cross it over in front or back depending on how you feel like being styled today.
The modern era means more young ladies are able to enjoy hakama both formally and casually at their university graduation ceremonies, where they often mix feminine styles with bolder color choices.
Wearing a hakama is an essential part of the miko's uniform. Likewise, Japanese martial artists and card players often sport these colorful and stylish garments as well. The women who work at shrines are easily recognized by their white kimono and scarlet hakamas while other participants wear them for events such as calligraphy tournaments or practices in archery or sword fighting.
The Japanese game "Hyaku nin isshu" stems from an old tradition that is based on a great work of classical poetry. The players kneel in front of rows and columns decorated with the Japanese poems (name 'Waka'), then recite to each other only half at a time as they race to find their complementary partner poem. Whoever finds it first can swipe them away! (Source 2)
Japanese Traditional Formal Clothing - Haori And Hakama
Men in Japan wear a form of formalwear known as the Hakama and Haori. This outfit is composed of two separate pieces: The hakama, which looks like trousers with an open side hem that can be tied at one's waist, and the tōshi-eri or tabi socks.
The men's version also includes a traditional Japanese coat called the Haori over it all so they are ready to go out into society wearing their family crest on both sides for everyone to see!
It is common for Japanese people to wear haori with crests at weddings and coming-of-age ceremonies. They are also safe if they do not have a family crest on them, but you should be careful when wearing one in public places because it can attract attention from the unaware who may think that you're trying too hard or cheating your way through life by pretending to belong where you don't really fit!
Haori And Hakama - The Traditional Japanese Clothing
Haori and hakama are traditional Japanese clothing, worn for centuries, but their interesting history extends way back. In fact, they are part of Japan's unique culture and customs today! Travelers can take part in this tradition at festivals or ceremonies-or even while renting a kimono from your ryokan hostess on the side of town you're staying near. It'll be an unforgettable experience that will teach you more about these important pieces of clothing than ever before!
