Kimono
Kimono
The word kimono simply means things to wear and is pronounced kee-mo-no. The plural of kimono is simply kimono. The kimono has had a long history in Japan and the kimono has changed over time to reflect the society and culture of that period.
Today, a Japanese woman usually owns only one kimono typically a furosode kimono which is worn for the coming of age ceremony on her 19th birthday. For weddings, the complete bridal kimono and kimono apparel is usually rented. Kimono are also very rarely worn as every day clothing anymore. Occasionally, if you go to a small rural town in Japan or one of small islands like Okinawa, you will see the traditional every day kimono worn by elders. To learn about the kimono history click the next button.
Kimono History
The kimono has had a long history in Japan and the kimono has changed over time to reflect the society and culture of that period.
During the Heian period 794-1185, the custom of elaborate layers of colored kimono robes became popular with Japanese women. Jun-hitoe, twelve unlined robes were frequently worn with the sleeve edges and collars showing the shades of each kimono. Persons of the royal court sometimes wore up to sixteen kimono layers. During the Kamakura period of 1185-1133 with the rising influence of the military class and warriors, people had no patience or need for elaborate kimono. Practicality prevailed and during this period the kosode meaning small sleeve was introduced into the kimono.
In 1615, military leader Tokugawa moved the capital of Japan from Kyoto, where the emperor resided to Edo, the present day Tokyo. Confucianism was adopted and hierarchy became the guiding principle where citizens were ranked based on their class. During the Edo period, people began to define their status by their kimono clothing. During this time the greatest artistic accomplishments were made with the kimono.
After 1853, the US Navy sailed to Tokyo and the beginning of Japan's commercial industry was opened to the Western world. Although Japanese people continued to wear the kimono for another hundred years, the beginning of the end of this practice was near.
During the Meiji period of 1868-1912, women began working outside their homes and required different clothing to accommodate their work. The Japanese people developed techniques to compete with the machine woven cloth available from the West. Cloth from other parts of the world were bought to make the kimono and the clothing. During the Taisho period of 1912-1926, Tokyo suffered a devastating earthquake which leveled most of the homes. Many of the old kimono were lost at this time.
During the Showa period 1926-1989, the japanese government curtailed silk production by taxing it to support the military buildup. Kimono designs became less complex and material was conserved. After World War II, as Japan's economy gradually recovered, kimono became even more affordable and were produced in greater quantities. Europe and America fashion ideas affected the kimono designs and motifs, but their shape remained the same. Kimono and obi colors changed with the season and with the age and status of the wearer.
Japanese Clothing - Clothes
Japanese clothing and traditional japanese clothes much like U.S. clothing is worn to compliment the seasons. The traditional forms of Japanese clothing in general is called wafuku. Japanese clothing and japanese clothes are worn also based off a persons age or by the event.
Japanese Clothing - Japanese Clothes and Seasons
In the spring, bright colors and spring floral patterned japanese clothing is worn. In autumn, japanese clothes with fall colors and fall patterns are worn. Japanese clothing designs may include chrysanthemums or maple leaves. In the winter, especially near the holidays, japanese clothing with patterns and designs such as the bamboo, pine trees or plum blossoms or worn for they signify good luck and prosperity. The fabric of the japanese clothing also plays a role in the seasons. In the summer, cotton clothes are worn whereas in the fall and winter, heavier or lined clothing is worn.
Japanese Clothing - Japanese Clothes and Events
Customarily, woven patterns, dyed clothing and repetitive patterns are considered informal japanese clothing. Examples of traditional informal japanese clothing are; cotton yukata, woven cotton haori and dyed ikat kimono. These types of japanese clothes would be used as daily wear, for bath houses or for informal friend and family visits.
Formal japanese clothing normally takes on either of two characteristics; very elaborate designs or a simple elegant designs. A few examples of elaborate designed japanese clothes worn for an event are uchikake wedding kimono and festive happi coats. The more elegant designs, subdued colors or solid pattern formal japanese clothes would be worn for paying formal visits, funerals or by married women for weddings or formal functions.
Japanese Clothing - Japanese Clothes and Age
For women in particular, traditional japanese clothing like the kimono is not only worn based on the persons age but also by their marital status. Young unmarried women wear kimono with long sleeves that are very vibrant, colorful and rich with patterns. Married women or older women would wear simpler more subdued clothes.
Traditional Japanese Clothing Types
The traditional forms of japanese clothing or japanese clothes in general is called wafuku. Traditional japanese clothing can be broken down into the following clothing categories.
Kimono - meaning clothing or things to wear is the basic japanese clothing
Yukata - the summer kimono
Nagajugan - undergarments
Clothing Accessories - obi, shoes, socks, etc.
Haori - short silk jackets
Michiyuki - Overcoats
Hakama - japanese pants
Uchikake - most formal kimono
Shiro-maku - wedding kimono
Japanese Clothing - Clothes
Japanese clothing and traditional japanese clothes much like U.S. clothing is worn to compliment the seasons. The traditional forms of Japanese clothing in general is called wafuku. Japanese clothing and japanese clothes are worn also based off a persons age or by the event.
Japanese Clothing - Japanese Clothes and Seasons
In the spring, bright colors and spring floral patterned japanese clothing is worn. In autumn, japanese clothes with fall colors and fall patterns are worn. Japanese clothing designs may include chrysanthemums or maple leaves. In the winter, especially near the holidays, japanese clothing with patterns and designs such as the bamboo, pine trees or plum blossoms or worn for they signify good luck and prosperity. The fabric of the japanese clothing also plays a role in the seasons. In the summer, cotton clothes are worn whereas in the fall and winter, heavier or lined clothing is worn.
Japanese Clothing - Japanese Clothes and Events
Customarily, woven patterns, dyed clothing and repetitive patterns are considered informal japanese clothing. Examples of traditional informal japanese clothing are; cotton yukata, woven cotton haori and dyed ikat kimono. These types of japanese clothes would be used as daily wear, for bath houses or for informal friend and family visits.
Formal japanese clothing normally takes on either of two characteristics; very elaborate designs or a simple elegant designs. A few examples of elaborate designed japanese clothes worn for an event are uchikake wedding kimono and festive happi coats. The more elegant designs, subdued colors or solid pattern formal japanese clothes would be worn for paying formal visits, funerals or by married women for weddings or formal functions.
Japanese Clothing - Japanese Clothes and Age
For women in particular, traditional japanese clothing like the kimono is not only worn based on the persons age but also by their marital status. Young unmarried women wear kimono with long sleeves that are very vibrant, colorful and rich with patterns. Married women or older women would wear simpler more subdued clothes.
Traditional Japanese Clothing Types
The traditional forms of japanese clothing or japanese clothes in general is called wafuku. Traditional japanese clothing can be broken down into the following clothing categories.
Kimono - meaning clothing or things to wear is the basic japanese clothing
Yukata - the summer kimono
Nagajugan - undergarments
Clothing Accessories - obi, shoes, socks, etc.
Haori - short silk jackets
Michiyuki - Overcoats
Hakama - japanese pants
Uchikake - most formal kimono
Shiro-maku - wedding kimono
Kimono Patterns - Kimono Styles
Kimono Patterns
Japanese kimono much like U.S. clothing are worn to compliment the seasons. In the spring, bright colors and spring floral kimono patterns are worn. In autumn, fall colors and fall kimono patterns are worn. In the winter, especially near the holidays, kimono patterns with designs such as the bamboo, pine trees or plum blossoms or worn for they signify good luck and prosperity.
Customarily, woven kimono patterns, dyed clothing and repetitive patterns are considered informal. Formal kimono have free-style designs dyed over the whole surface or along the hem. 
Originally, the kimono was worn in multiple layers of different colors. Up to a dozen or more colorful layers of contrasting colored kimono would be worn. Today, the kimono is normally worn with a single layer on top of a slip style undergarment called juban.
Kimono Styles
There are many types of kimono, each worn according to the persons age, season or the event. However, the formal kimono can be basically broken down into two main categories based on the persons age and marital status. Young unmarried women wear kimono with long sleeves called furisode. The sleeve length can vary from slightly long to very long reaching the ankle. Young women's kimono are very vibrant, colorful and rich with patterns.
Older women or those who have married, wear a kimono with short sleeves called tomesode. The kimono designs are smaller or solid and the colors are more subdued. There are also special kimono made for ceremonies and paying respect called the tsukesage, komon and the homongi.
Today, kimono producers and designers have modernized the kimono to meet the consumers everyday demands, economics and life style. New kimono patterns, designs, colors and fabrics are made to be "generic" to the persons age or marital status, thus being much more versatile.
How to Wear a Kimono
How to Wear a Kimono
Traditionally, the art of wearing a kimono is passed from mother to daughter. Today, there are also kimono schools that teach the proper techniques of how to wear a kimono. Below is a step by step basics of how to 
wear a kimono properly.
Kimono Under Garments
An under garment like a slip is worn under the kimono with the collar showing beneath the kimono. The two pieces full slip is called juban. Today, many women just wear the collar called eri-sugata because it is much cooler and still gives the formal appearance.
How to Wear a Kimono Instructions
- Always, put on white tabi socks first. It is difficult to bend to put on socks after the full kimono and belt is on.
- Put on the undergarment slips called juban consisting of a white cotton top and skirt. Today, an alternative is to wear only the white collar that goes around the neck called the eri-sugata.
- Put on the kimono, making sure the back seam is centered.
- For both men and women, wrap the right side of the kimono over the body, then overlap it with the left side. Right on top of the left is only used to dress a corpse for burial.
- Adjust the white slip collar to show evenly around the neck just under the kimono collar as shown in the above pictures.
- Don't worry if the kimono is too long for it is supposed to be.
- See our obi section to learn how to tie the different types of belts over the kimono and the next step to wearing a kimono.
Obi Sash Belts for Kimono
Obi sash belt types for japanese kimono, kimono sash and how to tie an obi belt, types of japanese obi and how to wear a kimono and an obi belt.
Continued from How to Wear a Kimono ....
How to Tie an Obi Sash and Belt
Contrary to belief, the traditional obi belt is actually comprised of many belts. Below are instructions on how to tie each belt over the kimono.
- After you have put on your kimono per the steps shown on the page How to Wear a Kimono.
- Pull up the kimono material so the length of the kimono is at the ankle. The length of the kimono is always adjusted which is why there are only a few lengths made by the manufacturer.
- As you hold the extra material above your waist, tie the koshi-himo belt below the excess material. Cross the belt in the back and tie it in the front.
- Straighten out the excess material to the side so that the front and the back of the kimono are smooth.
- Bring down the excess material to cover the belt.
- Take the date-jime belt and wrap it around your waist covering the koshi-himo belt. Tie the date-jime belt in the front leaving the overlapping kimono fabric visible below. The excess kimono fabric should hang evenly below the belt so that the fabric is seen as shown in the picture above.
The traditional long obi can be very difficult to tie depending on the style of bow made. Many times, another person will tie the belt for you. There are many styles of different ties that can be made with the belt. Below is information on pre-tied obi belts and how to tie your own butterfly bow. The obi-jime is the last belt tied around the obi belt as shown in the picture 
above.
Formal Obi Belts
A woman's formal obi is usually 4 meters long and 60 centimeters in width. The width is folded in half and the obi is wrapped twice around the waist and then tied in the back. Formal obi belts are made of a brocade or tapestry weave. The more pattern, the more formal is the basic rule. Today, an obi completely covered in its entirety 
with woven or embroidered design are now normally worn by a bride.
Casual Obi Sash
Obi for casual wear may be as narrow as 10 centimeters or as wide as 30 centimeters. They are are usually made of satin, twill, chirimen, gauze weaves, cotton, nylon or wool. The main difference between the formal obi and the casual obi is the material. Casual obi are not made of silk and do not have the elaborate silk brocade embroidered patterns. Although called casual, many are not casual looking at all. It is worn both with the kimono and the summer kimono "yukata".
1) Koshi-Himo Sash
The koshi-himo belt is the first belt tied around the waist. The belt is available in a variety of styles, materials and some newer styles even have velcro. The 
koshi-himo belt shown here is made of tye-dyed silk.
2) Date-Jime Belt
The date-jime belt is the second belt tied around the kimono covering the first koshi-himo belt.
2) Obi - Jime
The obi-jimi is a braided cord tied on top of the obi. Because the obi-jime is visible, it comes in a variety of colors and the color is chosen to compliment 
the obi.
Butterfly Obi Belts
This obi is a pre-tied belt that gives the impression of the complicated tied obi but is very simple to put on. The tied bow shape is called cho cho for the bow resembles the butterfly, thus giving it the name butterfly obi. The belt consists of two pieces; the wide belt and the bow. The belt is 5 feet in length and 6 inches in width The belt is wrapped twice around the waist and tucked under. The bow has a wire hanger to insert into the wrapped around belt. You can find butterfly obi belts at JapaneseGifts.com.
Tie your Own Butterfly Obi
Below are instructions on how to tie a single tie butterfly obi by yourself with a long traditional belt. The finished bow will look as the yellow portion of the picture shown above (basically a single tied bow). To tie the bow yourself, the bow will be tied in the front and the obi belt will be twisted after it is done so the bow is in the back.
- Place the long obi fabric around the waist with the ends toward the front. Position the obi fabric so that about 50 cm of the belt is in your left hand and wrap it once more around the waist.
- Overlap the ends of the obi toward the front so that it crosses over and tie the belt once with the right end over the left.
- You will now have one shorter end towards the top and one long end hanging down. Twist the tie so that the short end goes over your right shoulder.
- Fold the long bottom end in half or twice to get the size bow you want. This end is the actual right and left side of the bow.
- To make the center tie that holds the bow together, take the end that is over your shoulder and wrap it around the center of your folded piece several times. Any excess portion of the belt should be hidden underneath.
- Turn the belt around toward your back.
Mens Obi Belts
There are two main types of men's obi belts used with men's kimono and summer kimono (yukata). They are either called kaku or heko.
The stiff belt as shown above and are called kaku obi. The kaku obi is about 3.5 inches in width and made of cotton. The soft obi sash is called a heko obi and is normally free flowing and made of tye-dyed fabrics.
Yukata - Summer Cotton Kimono
Yukata is the japanese summer cotton kimono. Learn how to wear a yukata, yukata robe and types of yukata fabric pattern.
The yukata is a japanese summer kimono worn by both men and women. The name yukata comes from the word "yu" (bath) and "katabira" (under clothing ). Thousands of years ago, Court Nobles wore linen "yukatabira" which were draped loosely after taking a bath. It gradually became worn by japanese warriors and then by the general public when the sophisticated japanese public bath became popular. Today, the traditional japanese yukata is widely used for everything from festivals, ryokan, summer daily wear to simple night attire. In Japan, the yukata is the most popular daily clothing wear and is beloved for its 100% lightweight cotton fabric. The fabric designs vary from the traditional plain cross hatch pattern to more colorful scenery designs.
Like American clothing, there are many matching accessories that can be purchased separately when buying a yukata. The yukata comes from the manufacturer with a matching cotton 2" sash made of the same fabric as the yukata.
For normal daily or night attire, just the cotton sash is used. For festivals and public occasions a larger wider yukata belt as
shown in the picture is worn for a more formal appearance. The belt is simply wrapped around the waist and tucked in at the edge. An obi belt can also be worn with the cotton yukata. A matching purse, tabi socks and japanese sandals complete the attire.
Japanese Kimono Robe & Cotton Yukata Robes
Kimono Robe - Yukata Robes
There are only a few types of japanese kimono robes and cotton yukata robes that are worn as actual robes or sleepwear in Japan; the gauze lined cotton kimono robe, the flannel kimono robe and the cotton yukata robe.
Gauze Lined Cotton Yukata - Kimono Robe
The gauze lined kimono robe or yukata is called nemaki meaning sleepwear in Japanese. The nemaki is the actual true "pajama" sleeping robe.
The cotton kimono robe or also called lined cotton yukata is lined with a thin cotton gauze material making it a perfect for use as house robe, bath robe and as a pajama. The 100% cotton and the thin gauze lining becomes very soft after just one wash making it a soft and cozy pajama. The nemaki is our favorite house robe and bath robe. Gauze lined kimono usually have a navy or white background with assorted designs. The nemaki robe can be distinguished from other cotton yukata from the shape of the sleeve. The sleeves of the robe are perfectly straight.
Cotton Yukata Robe
The lightweight cotton yukata is also traditionally used in Japan as a lounge robe, bath robe and sleeping robe. The yukata robes are traditionally white or navy with a very plain geometric pattern whereas the cotton yukata worn in public as clothing have fancier patterns and designs. The yukata clothing can be worn as a robe in Japan, however the yukata robe should never be worn as clothing in public for it would be like wearing your pajamas in public.
Flannel Kimono Robes
The flannel kimono robe is traditional robe for winter. The cotton flannel kimono fabric is extremely soft, cozy and warm, making it perfect for cold winter months. The flannel kimono robe is however made of a thick heavy fabric making it sometimes a little constricting. Women's flannel kimono usually have a lovely floral pattern. Men's flannel kimono robes normally have a cross hatch pattern and available in hues of blues, grays or blacks.
Kimono Robe, Japanese Robes
Kimono Robe & Japanese Robes
Although almost every kimono makes a wonderful and very attractive robe, there are only a few types of japanese robes or kimono robes that are actually worn as robes or sleepwear in Japan. Japanese robes consist of; the gauze lined cotton kimono robe, the flannel kimono robe and the cotton yukata robe.
How to Wear a Japanese Robe, Kimono Robe and Yukata Robe
Below are instructions on how to wear a japanese robe, kimono robe and yukata robe. These instructions apply to kimono and yukata when wearing them as robes at bath house, japanese hotels, around the home for relaxation, etc..
Men's Japanese Kimono
Men's Kimono
Kimono were traditionally worn by men as daily wear clothing, but today they are usually only worn for festivals, ceremonies, special occasions and as kimono robes. Men's kimono, like women's can can range from simple to elaborate patterns. Popular kimono patterns include dragons, koi and masculine designs and generally are conservative in color. The kimono background color is usually blue, black, gray or brown with contrasting designs. Kimono with scenes and motifs include; dragons, kanji symbols, bamboo canes or geometric patterns.
The sleeves for men's kimono are are completely sewn closed under the arm in comparison with the open underarm sleeve on women's kimono. The underarm portion is called tamoto in Japanese.
The kimono comes from the manufacturer with a matching sash belt. For special occasions, the kimono is worn with a kaku or heko obi belt. For more information about the belts, please see the obi belts page.
Hakama Pants
Hakama
Hakama is an outer garment worn over the kimono that are either split between the legs like pants or non-split like a skirt. Hakama pants originated as an outer garment to protect samurai warriors legs from brush when riding a horse. Today, the hakama is worn as formal attire for ceremonies, traditional japanese dance, artists and martial arts.
Contrary to belief, hakama are worn by both men and women today. The hakama pants with the split between the legs are the most well known. However, hakama used for traditional japanese dances and ceremonies normally do not have a split for it allows the full length kimono underneath to hang nicely giving a neater appearance. Both hakama styles (skirts and pants) look exactly the same from the front and back.
Hakama Pants
Traditional hakama pants for men are striped or solid in subdued colors. The striped black and gray hakama pants as shown on the right is the most popular traditional attire. The formal attire consists of a white under garment, black full length kimono, hakama pants and a black haori.
Japanese Shoes and Japanese Sandals
The two basic types of japanese sandals or japanese shoes is the geta and the zori. The length of the kimono is normally adjusted to hang just at the ankle displaying both the japanese shoes and socks. Japanese sandals and shoes come in a variety of colors and styles, red and black being the most popular. Japanese manufacturers now make japanese sandals, purses and japanese hair combs to match the exact pattern of the kimono to complete the ensemble. Click next to learn about the zori japanese sandal, geta japanese shoes and the japanese tabi socks.
Geta Sandals
Geta Sandals
The geta sandal was termed geta because of the "clack clack" sound they made when walking. Geta sandals are any sandal with a separate heel. The wooden geta sandal is the most well known by Americans for the beautiful pictures seen of geisha women. However, there are many other types of geta sandals including those made of vinyl.
Wooden geta have a slightly tapered front heal, making the person lean forward with each step. Geta sandals are not easy for some people to walk on and takes practice to walk correctly.
Tatami Sandals - Zori Sandal
Zori Sandals Types
Zori sandals are any japanese sandal that has a flat bottom. Zori sandals include both the tatami sandals and vinyl zori sandals. The zori sandal is worn by both men and women and are made in a variety of colors and materials.
Tatami Sandals
Tatami sandals are considered a casual japanese sandal and are the most popular for daily wear. The sandals are called tatami which means straw. The surface of the sandal is made from woven straw like the tatami mats used on the floors of japanese homes. The thong is made of velvet and comes in either red or black. JapaneseGifts.com carries quality Japanese made zori sandals.
Tabi - Tabi Boots, Tabi Socks
Tabi
Tabi or also called tabi boots or tabi socks are a japanese sock that have a split in the sock for the large toe so that they may comfortably be worn with sandals. There are two basic types of tabi. The odori tabi socks which people call the tabi boot or the stretch tabi socks.
Tabi - Tabi Boots
Tabi or also called tabi boots are called odori. Odori tabi socks are made of cotton and have a vinyl sole bottom with clasps on the back. The term tabi boot was coined by westerners for the sock goes past the ankle and resemble boots. Odori tabi socks are purchased to the exact fit of the persons foot. The tabi are popular among traditional japanese dancers and theater artists. The vinyl sole bottom of the tabi protects their feet since japanese shoes are not normally worn during performances. However, the odori tabi socks are difficult to maintain because they must be hand washed and line dried so they will not shrink.
Children's Kimono
The children's kimono is basically a small version of an adult's kimono. The kimono clothing is just as elaborate and is worn with all the kimono accessories. The formal kimono is worn for Japanese festivals and special occasions. A child's kimono is usually very colorful and bright. Just like a woman's kimno, it can take an hour or more to properly dress a young girl.
Small children normally wear what is called a "hanten". Hanten are made of cotton and filled with a polyester filling much like a quilted jacket. Hantens are very colorful and bright like the kimono however are very easy to put on the child.
Wedding Kimono the Japanese Wedding Dress
The traditional white japanese wedding kimono is called shiro-maku. Shiro meaning white and maku meaning pure. The wedding kimono actually consists of two different kimono. The white wedding kimono is worn for the wedding ceremony and an elaborate rich patterned silk brocade kimono called uchikake is worn over the white kimono at the wedding reception.
The bright and colorful uchikake kimono originated in the Edo era and originally only worn by court nobles. The kimono is made of silk and silk brocade. Rich in fine embroidered patterns, the uchikake is embellised with scenes of flowers, cranes, pines, flower carts or nature motifs. While red is the most popular color for the uchikake kimono, there are many different colors available from a stunning imperial purple to sea green. The bridal kimono is sometimes handed down in the family or made into futon bedding later in life.
In a traditional Japanese wedding, the brides hair is also styled in the traditional hair style called bunkin-takashimada and adorned with beautiful gold combs and accessories called kanzashi. A white wedding hood called tsuno kakushi is meant to hide two front golden "tsuno" or horns during the wedding ceremony to symbolize obedience.
Like American weddings, there are traditional wedding accessories that are worn for tradition and are said to bring good luck. The bride carries a small purse style sack called hakoseko and a small encased sword called kaiken. Lastly, a fan is worn in the obi belt for tradition holds that the gradual widening of the open fan implies happiness and thus brings a happy future. JapaneseWeddingFavors.com carries a wonderful selection of Japanese wedding favors, wedding presentation ideas and information on Japanese wedding and Japanese wedding traditions.
Happi Coat & Japanese Festival Clothing
Happi coats originated as Japanese over coats traditionally worn by shop keepers. The family crest, shop name or emblem was printed on the back of the coat. Today, happi coats are still used by some shop keepers, however happi coats are widely used for Japanese festivals, parties and sushi restaurants.
In the past decade, the happi coat has also taken on a new use as a "robe". Manufacturers now make short versions of the traditional yukata and kimono solely for use as a short robe. The short robe is called a happi. Today, the term happi is used for any short or mid-length clothing. The happi has become very popular for use as beach robes, night attire and bath robes for they are very attractive. Happi coats and happi robes come in a variety of colors and designs from a simple single color fabric with a small embroidered symbol to an elaborate four color printed design.
Happi coats used mainly for Japanese festivals are called a matsuri happi coats meaning "festival" coat. The happi coats come in a variety of styles and colors both imprinted or plain. Some have a kanji symbol on the back, others have an imprinted scenery or they are a solid print of one or two colors. Matsuri happi coats are traditionally worn over a t-shirt with shorts or pants.
Short sleeved happi coats called a "taiko happi coat" are used at japanese festivals by taiko drummers.
Japanese restaurants use a special chefs happi coat called a hippari. The chefs happi coat is much like the traditional coat except it has a small belt that ties inside the coat.
Favorite Japanese Links & Sources
Thank You for visiting JapaneseKimono.com! I hope you enjoyed my site and will visit some of my favorite links to learn more about japanese culture.
Domo Arigato!
JapaneseGifts.com - Very nice selection of authentic quality japanese kimono, obi and children's kimono and happi coats. Also sells unique japanese gifts, sushi supplies, dishes and japanese garden ornaments.
JapaneseWeddingFavors.com - Wedding favors, party favors and paper lanterns. Lots of unique wedding ideas, party favor gift wrapping ideas, party decorating ideas and info about traditional japanese weddings and chinese weddings!
ExploreJapan.com - Japanese culture information while listening to beautiful japanese music.
RainChain.com - Information about beautiful japanese rain chains. Rain chains are japanese rain gutters that provides a fountain like effect.