Coming of Age

Some posts ago, I showed you a display of furisode in a shop window.

Long-sleeved kimono

Furisode is a special type of kimono with long sleeves that young, unmarried women wear, usually on seijin-no-hi - known as Coming of Age day. Last January, I was lucky to be passing the cultural centre in Himeji on this public holiday.

What's going on?

Gathered on the steps of the Culture Centre

The girls are immaculately dressed

These kimono are so expensive that they are usually rented or borrowed for the day. The girls said it took hours of preparation - including dress, hair, makeup and nails and most went to salons for professional assistance. They were trendy, gorgeous and happy to pose - despite the cold.

Cute is a fluffy shawl


The obi are fabulous -
and there's so many ways to tie them

The boys are in a traditional kimono too...


..but some just wore suits

It truly was a treat to see these young people dressed up in their mix of traditional and contemporary style, excited to be embarking the year as a fully-fledged adult in Japanese society.

Until next time,
Monica x