📖 Kimono

The kanji for kimono is written as 「着物」, which literally means "thing to wear." Originally, it was a general term for various types of clothing. After Western clothing (洋服) was introduced to Japan during the Meiji period, it gradually became a specific term representing "Japanese clothing." In modern times, everyday clothing is generally referred to as洋服, while kimono and other traditional Japanese garments are called 着物. Although they are all called kimono, there are many different types, and like洋服, they vary depending on the occasion and purpose of wear. This distinction is referred to as "format (規格)" levels, which are roughly divided into four grades from the highest specification "first formal wear" to "semi-formal wear (準礼装)," "outdoor wear," and "casual wear." For example, the "yukata," which is worn by both men and women at events such as fireworks festivals and summer festivals, is the most casual and common type of "casual wear." Most modern Japanese people wear kimono during significant life events or ceremonies such as coming-of-age ceremonies, weddings, and graduations, while the opportunity to wear kimono in daily life is very rare.

Kimono refers to "Japanese clothing" or "traditional Japanese attire." The literal meaning is "thing to wear," but with the introduction of Western clothing, the term has evolved to specifically refer to Japanese garments. There are many types of kimono, similar to Western clothing, and they can be chosen based on the occasion and purpose. Men's and women's kimonos each have distinct characteristics.