Kimono Patterns Are Beautiful Canvas of Japanese Traditional Culture Part.2

HI, I'm a student of Doshisha University in Kyoto. If you take a closer look at Kimono, there are various types of patterns and interesting details. I'm going to let you know about some of them.

Photos in this article are of actual kimonos which are created by accomplished craftsmen in Kyoto.

Natural scenery pattern

This is not a pattern but is a picture drawn inside of wedding kimono for men.

The natural scenery pattern changing a natural phenomenon including a wave and a cloud, a snow and a haze pictorially to express it as a pattern.

It often include the season's traditions such as colored leaves for lucky charms. Bamboo and a plum also included for the same reason.

It may be said that it is a pattern only exists in Japan having the four seasons.

The natural scenery pattern produces elegant atmospheres by matching with an animal pattern and a plant pattern.

Golden lines depict a river flow.

Astronomy pattern

This pattern features clouds and flowers.

A pattern depicting a natural phenomenon such as moon, star, something related to the universe like the sun, climate such as rain, snow. For example, a pattern called “Kumodori” is frequently used for kimono wearing with a patterned cloud. You can imagine a peaceful and relaxing life from the way cloud drifts, and it is also said that cloud is symbol of “Rinne Tensho” because it appears repeatedly in the sky. (Rinnne Tensho is Buddhist teaching which means all things being in flux through the endless circle of birth, death, and rebirth, the circle of transmigration.)

Geometric pattern

Geometric pattern is a pattern which consists in straight-line, curve-line, point and aspect. A good example is Saya-gata, Kikko[Tortoise] and Uroko-koushi[Scales].

• Saya-gata

This pattern is a pattern that swastika patterns are connected along inclined lines. It means lasting-forever and wish for prosperity of the house.

• Tortoise

As well as crane, turtle symbolizes longevity. Wish for longevity and auspiciousness.

• Scales

This pattern is associated with snake’s scales. It has a meaning of prospect against misfortune.

Apart from that there are Higaki[Cypress fence type], Tatewaku[a wavy design],Checkered-patterns, and Stripe and so on.

Check out other articles please!