The Meaning Behind Japanese Kimono Symbolism

May 21st, 2022

Japan is a country that has been around for centuries. Over the decades, they developed their own unique culture, and the country is known worldwide as “the land of the rising sun.” Japan is a fascinating place that holds one of the largest economies in Asia and produces some incredible technology, art, food, and more. The people are polite, humble yet firm with their beliefs. This is what makes it an interesting destination to visit or live in.

What do you think of when you hear the word “kimono”? For most people, the first thing that comes to mind is a traditional Japanese dress worn by women. However, did you know that kimonos have a rich history and meaning behind their patterns? In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular kimono patterns and what they represent.

Kimono and yukata robes are an important part of Japanese culture. Kimonos come in a variety of colors and designs, each with its own unique story to tell. Some of the most popular patterns include flowers, birds, and animals. While the specific meanings vary depending on the design, several themes are commonly found in kimono patterns. The Japanese language is rich with patterns and symbols. The kimono, for example, wouldn’t be so fascinating without these magnificent historical designs that constitute the beauty of Japan’s art culture.

Here are just some of the popular symbols and their meanings:

The peony flower is considered the queen of flowers in Japan. Its tranquility and beauty have made it an ideal symbol for many cultures. This is especially true of those with rich histories like China or Persia. They use this plant to make perfume among other things. The peony is a flower that symbolizes femininity and prosperity in Japan. The legend says it’s lucky to have this plant as your friend because not only does the bloom represent love but also honor.

The Dragon is an ancient creature that has been associated with water, sky, and clouds for centuries. They are often considered deities in Japan, a symbol of strength and power as well as luck and good fortune. The people who worshiped dragons believed that these creatures could control the weather, and bring rain and floods. They could bring relief from drought by swimming in the water and protecting farmers’ crops.

The koi fish is a symbol of love, perseverance, and courage. The word “koi” translates to ‘carp’ in English and is used because of their migratory habits. Koi migrate up streams and rivers from low-lying areas to reach higher ground. Reaching their goal symbolizes courage. Koi have beautifully colored scales and can become even more colorful as they reach adulthood. This makes it an ideal decoration on Japanese fabrics because of how aesthetically pleasing these designs can be done by skilled artisans.

The plum tree is an evergreen that grows in dry areas. It becomes the first to bloom at the beginning of each new season. The pink or white petals of the plum blossom have five rounds with a delicate fragrance similar to jasmine. They symbolize health and renewal because they come back again after blooming once more proving their beauty through evolution, grace, and elegance.

Butterflies are a symbol of good luck and prosperity. They also represent transformation, with the caterpillar turning into an adult butterfly after several days or weeks. The meaning behind this popular insect is that it’s lucky because of its metamorphosis. The transformation from caterpillar to adult insect reminds us that we must always be ready to change our lives to achieve what we desire most: happiness.

The crane is a monogamous bird that symbolizes longevity and good fortune. Long associated with happy marriages, if two cranes are seen, then it suggests a long life together with a partner. Today, people believe these creatures bring luck with them when they fly into homes or businesses because their legs mean longevity.

Chopa – Your Kimono Source is proud to bring these colorful and symbolic patterns to our customers. As a direct importer of fine quality kimonos and yukatas since 1994, we share our love of these beautiful works of art with anyone who finds the beauty within. This is but a small sampling of kimono symbolism. Keep watch for our next post with additional symbols and explanations.  Shop our online store 24 hours a day to discover the kimono and symbolism that most intrigues you.

Koi Fish, courtesy of Quang Nguyen Vinh

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Posted in cotton yukata, Japanese kimono, Kimono for women, Plus size kimono, Tall kimono for men | 1 Comment »

Top Selling Kimonos in April 2022.

May 8th, 2022

With Father’s Day approaching, students’ graduations, birthdays, and weddings abound, why not make your life easier and give a Japanese kimono or Yukata as a gift?

Chopa is Your Kimono Source and the perfect place to find an authentic Japanese kimono robe as a gift for any occasion. Our online selection has something for everyone, with dozens of colors, patterns, and sizes to choose from. Plus, we offer free shipping on orders of $75 or more to anywhere in the USA. This includes Alaska and Hawaii.

A Kimono Yukata make the perfect gift because it can be worn for all sorts of occasions. Whether special events like weddings and graduations to everyday activities like running errands or lounging around the house. With our huge selection of kimonos and yukatas, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your loved ones. Japanese kimonos are the perfect way to show your loved ones how much you care.

If you are uncertain about which kimonos or Yukata to buy, we invite you to read on and see what our customer’s favorite choices are.  Each month, we publish the Top five selling kimonos list.  This allows all of our customers the chance to see what is hot, what is popular, and what others think was the best that month. Remember, the best thing about kimono shopping is that it is an individual decision.  No one person can decide what you should wear. Often customers think about their own personal traits or the gift recipients and that helps them decide what theme would be most meaningful.

Here are the TOP 5 SELLING KIMONO and YUKATA for April 2022:

Yukata – Navy Tsuru – This beauty is actually being retired.  The producer of the fabric has decided it has done its job and it was time to move on. We disagree because it was a long-time favorite of ours and many customers, but it is what it is. It is also on clearance, so long-time customers took advantage of the discount. It is still available in two sizes until they are gone forever.

Blue Koi Yukata – This blue and white yukata has a unique design of Koi fish swimming in the water. The fish is highly respected in Japan and translates to affection and love. In Buddhism koi represent courage. A long term favorite of customers, it frequently makes the top ten list. This style is also a favorite of interior decorators who like to frame them under glass and display on a wall.  It really sets off a discussion when people come to visit. Nothing says Japan like a kimono.

Yukata – Eternal Chain – Symbolic in so many ways, this yukata has always been a core fixture in our online kimono shop. Chains that form a never-ending circle symbolize eternity. Eternal chains are symbolic of life, hope, and strength. The connectivity has no beginning or end and will go around in a circle forever. It may reflect your happiness with life, a situation in your career, a mantra you recite, something motivational, or our never-ending love for someone close to us, perhaps a spouse or significant other.

Yukata – Dragon and Bamboo – The story behind a kimono pattern often resonates with the buyer or the wearer in a special way. This cotton yukata is no different. The dragon and bamboo have been considered symbols of beauty and endurance throughout Japanese history into modern times. The dragon symbolizes water and is known for strength. Bamboo represents endurance and is believed to attract luck and prosperity. The navy blue and white color palette complements the water deity design of this robe

Yukata – Dragon and Hawk – If you want history and a lesson in life, this is the robe for you. This Japanese robe features two highly symbolic characters: the dragon and the hawk. The men’s yukata can be worn during celebrations, festivals, or lounging at home while cooling down from an afternoon of work in the sweltering heat! Yukata are versatile and can be used as a cover-up at the pool or after a bath or shower.

We invite you to shop our online store for dozens of patterns, colors, and sizes including plus-size and short-length robes. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect robe.

koi fish yukata from Japan

                              Blue Koi Yukata

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Posted in cotton yukata, Japanese kimono, Men's kimono robe, Plus size kimono, Plus size kimono robe, short kimono | 1 Comment »

Buying a Japanese Men’s Yukata?

May 5th, 2022

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your loungewear wardrobe, then look no further than the Japanese yukata.

Do you find yourself looking for the best of both worlds? Comfort and style? That’s exactly how the yukata feels. Fashionable, yet functional. The Japanese yukata is more than just a robe. A yukata is a lighter-weight robe that can be worn during celebrations or festivals to show off its beauty while also serving as loungewear at home.

These Japanese robes have been around since ancient times for hundreds if not thousands of years. In modern times, the yukata has become a dominant factor in the world of loungewear. Made of high-quality soft cotton fabrics, it is breathable, not too heavy, and easy to wear and care for.

The gorgeous patterns and designs of authentic Japanese robes are created by distinguished artists in Japan. The designs incorporate original works with historic and traditional patterns. From tigers, Mt. Fuji, hawks, flowers, fish, mountains, trees, scenery, and similar nature-inspired objects, the result is a work of art that you can wear.

One of our more popular men’s yukata robes is the Dragon and Hawk design.   This men’s robe displays the dragon and hawk taking flight among Japanese Tsuri pines. Accented in gold and white and set against a black background. The robe has butterfly sleeves and a matching belt is included.

The Dragon is a powerful creature that can be found in different corners of the world. They are wise creatures that can be found all over our planet. Dragons are seen as guardians with destructive potential, but their protective nature symbolizes strength and bravery for those willing to take them on or need it most. This may explain why this animal has been associated so strongly over time by many cultures around our globe.

The way we see it now? Dragons represent intelligence and thus knowledge, creativity skills like artistry and design; moreover, they’re modest too: meaning shyness and modesty will come up when dealing directly with outside forces.

Because these dragons have been known fighters in battles past, long before any man was born, their spirit remains today among us humans because each one knows what bravery means.  They are bold fighters, and dragons represent a fighting spirit and nobility.

The Hawk is a bird of high spirits, great courage, and bravery. An old proverb says that “a wise hawk hides its talents.” Thus, the hawk is a clever creature that represents someone who’s successful but doesn’t believe in showing off all they have done. Instead, they maintain an airy estimation of what they can do best.

The Hawk pairs well with Dragons because they’re able to utilize these qualities for them not to get noticed by others. This aligns with what it means when paired together; the dragon symbolizes boldness alongside strength while also representing intelligence; this makes one a very talented but modest person!

Our authentic Dragon and Hawk yukata are skillfully crafted in Japan of high-quality 100% cotton with a shrink-resistant finish. This yukata is easy to care for and is comfortable to wear. We recommend cold water washing to extend the life of your robe and the beautiful design. It is available in four men’s sizes; Small/Medium, Large, Large/Tall, and XL/Wide.

Chopa – Your Kimono Source has been a leading online retailer since 1994. We are located in the USA and ship quickly from the northwest panhandle of Florida. Most orders ship within one business day. As a USA-based retailer, we have taken the hassles out of online Kimono shopping.

You can shop our Online Kimono Shop 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We offer a large selection of Japanese Kimono and Yukata robes for men, women, and kids. As a direct importer, we respond quickly and provide fast shipping.  Orders of $75 or more ship Free anywhere in the USA, including Alaska and Hawaii.

You will never pay customs, duties, or import taxes when shopping with us. We often hear the stories of customers who bought online from a dealer in Asia only to discover that shipping was not fast, but rather it took several weeks (if lucky) or months. Then they were faced with customs, duties, and import processing fees which added as much as 50% of the cost of the robe.

We also make returns simple and easy.  Don’t be fooled by the promise made by overseas dealers. A common complaint we hear is how they never respond or answer emails or worse yet, they refuse returns. Shipping a kimono back to Asia is expensive.

Shop our online store now!

dragon and hawk kimono yukata

              Dragon and Hawk Kimono Yukata

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Posted in Japanese kimono men, kimono for men, kimono male, kimono men, mens kimono | 2 Comments »

TOP SELLING KIMONOS

April 21st, 2022

Can you say Time Flies?  We sure can.  It seemed like just a week ago, we published the previous month’s list of Top Selling Japanese Kimonos and Yukatas on our online Kimono Shop. We must be getting older or perhaps we are moving a bit slower.  It has been a busy few weeks as our Spring Kimono order arrived.  It took several flights from Japan, several more transfers across the USA, and finally four different days of deliveries to our warehouse in Florida.

The good news is that everything is now up on the website and ready for fast shipping. Quick shipping is something we are proud of and something we take seriously to make sure our customers receive their purchases as quickly as possible.  After all, who wants to wait for something they order online? For most orders, 99.9% ship within one business day of order receipt, and many orders ship the same day.

We are still adjusting to the new arrivals and space is a bit tight in some areas of the warehouse.  Unpacking all of those cartons and boxes takes time. After 28 years of operating this business, we know how valuable it is to keep our nose to the grindstone and persevere. In time, everything is unpacked and securely stocked on our long lines of shelves.

So let’s go to the Top Sellers. Without further delay, the Best Selling Kimonos and Yukatas for March 2022 were:

1) BLACK KIMONO SAMURAI ROBE

2)  NAVY KAGOME YUKATA

3) TREE OF LIFE YUKATA

4) DRAGON AND BAMBOO YUKATA

5) NAVY HANA YUKATA

To all of the customers who purchased these styles, we say congratulations, you have great taste in Japanese robes. Let’s take a quick peek at these five best sellers.

Black Kimono Samurai Robe. This is a long-time favorite among our customers.  This kimono is all black and produced in 100% broadcloth.  Broadcloth is often used in high-end dress shirts. It features densely woven threads that produce a crisper feel than traditional cotton fabric and has a soft, smooth feel.  It stays cooler in the warmer months and softens within a few washing cycles. As with all of our robes, we recommend cold water washing. This helps to extend the life of the fabric and design. This handsome robe is available in four sizes.

Navy Kagome Yukata. This men’s yukata is one of our most popular year-round. Kagome translates in Japan to woven bamboo and that is the inspiration for this distinctive Japanese design. Produced in 100% cotton in a dark navy blue and white color palette. This Japanese yukata has an artistic rendition of bamboo silhouetted against subtle contrasting circles that brings to mind old-world craftsmanship and simplicity. The Kagome yukata makes a great Father’s Day gift or Graduation present.

Tree of Life Yukata. This stylish yukata for men displays a geometric design well known in Japan as a tortoise print. Seen in Japanese clothing and textiles since 2000 B.C., makes it one of the oldest symbols known today. The samurai used this pattern as it represented stability; therefore, its popularity can be traced back over 200 years ago. In old Japan, warriors wore these robes on special occasions such as holidays or battles. Because the style represents longevity, it will be an excellent addition to your wardrobe that you can enjoy for years to come!

Dragon and Bamboo Yukata. Expertly crafted in Japan of 100% soft cotton with a shrink-resistant finish. The dragon is considered a symbol of endurance and strength.  The dragon is a water deity. Bamboo is known for its beauty and is believed to attract luck and prosperity. The navy blue and white design complements the water deity theme of this robe.

Navy Hana Yukata. Hana translates to flower in Japan.  This Japanese artist-designed print features beautiful floral images melded with a striped bamboo print. The sophisticated pattern includes circles of flowers. The circle symbolizes Enso which means the body and mind are in a perfect state of “flow.”  Produced in a navy and white design, this yukata is always a good choice for lady’s yukatas.

If you are interested in these or any of our other 100+ designs and styles of Japanese Kimono, yukatas, or short-length kimonos called Happi Coats, click the link to visit our Online Kimono Shop.  Thank you for reading.

                    Black Kimono Samurai Robe

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Posted in Japanese kimono, Kimono for women, Men's kimono robe, short kimono, Uncategorized | 2 Comments »

Kimonos In Flight

April 12th, 2022

It’s a long process.  Starting in the farm fields, cotton seeds are planted and soon sprout. The tender plants are well cared for, nourished, watered, and grown to mature plants. The cotton is harvested and processed and woven into a giant blank canvas. From the multi-stage dying process and careful printing of the fine virgin cotton fabrics, it is on to the buyer’s markets.  Our buyers are meticulously seeking out the best of the best. Fabrics must pass their vigorous inspections and only the best are purchased. The fabric bolts are delivered to the sewing rooms where production begins.

The talented seamstresses and tailors cut panels from the large bolts of materials. From there, the panels are sent to experienced artisans and sewing teams where careful attention is given to every stitch.  As the process continues, what once looked like stacks of fabric jigsaw puzzle pieces, a Japanese Kimono started to take shape in the traditional form we know.  Further inspections and finishing touches are checked not once or twice, but three or more times to make the final cut or approval. Once the quality assurance team gives their approval, the Kimonos and Yukatas are neatly pressed and folded, and individually packaged.

Once packaged, team members sort and stack the finished robes into boxes where they are labeled and processed for shipment. This process varies in detail depending on whether the shipment contains hundreds or thousands of Japanese robes. The method of how the goods are transported to the United States also plays into the equation. Chopa – Your Kimono Source has opted for air cargo for some time now especially because of the Covid Pandemic.

Shipping on container ships became very expensive and major delays are now the norm. We pride ourselves on offering a full selection as best as we can and air cargo eliminates many delays.  Air transport isn’t cheap, but sometimes a company absorbs additional costs to serve their customers and this is something we strive to do.

While air travel is relatively quick, goods must still go through customs, and taxes and duties must be paid. Once they arrive at a major hub in the USA, our carriers work on delivering the shipment to our warehouse as quickly as possible.  This normally encompasses a few shorter flights from a few states away and then finally “the last mile delivery” as it is known in the shipping world is made.  Freight trucks roll up to our doors and the unloading begins.

This process includes opening boxes, and scanning and entering data into our inventory database. The reports are forwarded to our web team where they go into the back end of our website and add the new sizes, colors, and other pertinent information.  Little by little over the next 3-5 days, the website is updated and dozens and dozens of sizes, styles, and colors are instantly back in stock.

We are often amazed at how quickly orders begin coming in that selected new items we just added. We have a complimentary electronic notification list if a customer wants to be notified of an out-of-stock item coming back in stock. But many customers regularly check our website and are ready to hit the BUY button when it is posted.

With social media, we announce when a new shipment is arriving. Most customers get alerted of this fact through Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. If you don’t follow us on social media, we recommend you do.  Besides announcements of new shipments, we also alert subscribers to special sales, closeouts, price reductions, and overstock deals. We also share simple news items about something of interest to our Kimono Loving Family of customers.

We try to keep it fresh and never beat anyone up with multiple posts per hour like some stores do.  We want it to be relevant and interesting. As a 100% employee-owned business, we want to treat our customers the same we like to be treated. We understand what a turn-off it is to be bombarded by solicitations and advertisements. This is simply something we do not participate in.

With that said our work is cut out for us.  Planes left Japan over the weekend and trucks already delivered the first shipment of many this morning.  We expect more truckloads throughout the week.  Our warehouse was in full operational mode this past weekend prepping for the deliveries. Our priority is to always process customer orders as soon as possible, so this doesn’t hinder getting orders out.  It is an art and science but since we have been doing this for 28 years, we think we know a thing or two and make it as painless as possible. Now Go Get Your Kimono On…SHOP NOW!! 

 

Kimonos In Flight

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Posted in Men's kimono robe, Plus size kimono, Plus size kimono robe, short kimono, Tall kimono for men | 2 Comments »

Fabrics Used in Kimonos

April 2nd, 2022

Japanese kimonos are comfortable and stylish to wear. Kimonos are traditional Japanese clothing that was originally worn by a woman to cover their bodies during the Edo era. They have evolved somewhat over the many years and revived as a fashion trend now, especially in Tokyo where you can find many stores offering kimonos with all sorts of other trendy pieces.

Made from long pieces of fabric, Kimonos are sewn together along straight seams. A collar is attached to give it shape around the neck. The kimono is not cut specifically for each wearer but rather folds and drapes over them like a bathrobe and is held in place by tying an obi or sash around the hips and waist.

What is a common fabric used to make a kimono? Answers will vary but the most common ones made for today are cotton, cotton sateen, cotton slub,  broadcloth, and silk sateen.

Cotton:

Cotton fabric is a favorite among many for its natural qualities. Cotton fibers are derived from seeds surrounding the flower of the cotton plants. These fiber strands come out in rounded formation when mature in colors ranging from white to light brown depending on geography and growing conditions.

This textile doesn’t contain any synthetic compounds, which means that it’s chemically organic. Cotton fabric is one of the most commonly used fabrics in the world. This material is very appealing because it can be used to make light or heavyweight clothing like shirts, sheets, pajamas, dresses, blouses, jackets, and especially Japanese kimono and yukata robes.

Cotton Sateen:

Sateen is a cotton fabric with a luster resembling that of satin. This fabric has the smoothness and glossiness that you would expect from satin. Cotton sateen is produced with the highest quality threads. It is among the most expensive cotton materials available.

It is highly breathable and has increased wear resistance because it has higher thread counts which give them durability without being too thin like some cheaper options. This material is often used to make sheets, pillowcases, and other items like the kimono yukata.

Cotton Slub:

Shantung or Slub cotton fabric has a unique look and feel. It contains spun cotton fibers providing a ribbed design effect. Slubbed yarns are woven into the material. This produces a durable, nubby fabric that maintains an airy feel with a textured and visual attraction.

Slub cotton is also called Tianzhu cotton in Japanese. This natural linen possesses better breathability than ordinary plain-knit cotton, making it an excellent choice for hot summer days and nights. Many customers like the look of this fabric for its retro appearance. It is more expensive than traditional cotton.

Broadcloth:

This fabric is typically used for clothing. It’s a sturdy, yet thin and medium weight fabric that can be found on everything from shirts to blouses or even bed sheets. Broadcloth fabric can be used for many different things. It’s tightly woven and very sturdy, making it perfect to use in the crafting industry or as an everyday shirt material because of its quality construction. High-end dress shirt makers often turn to broadcloth to make their best dress shirts.

Broadcloth clothing typically doesn’t need to be dry-cleaned. However, may need ironing or steaming to maintain its crisp, smooth appearance. Broadcloth will release odors easily in the wash. It is recommended to wash in cold water on the gentle cycle or washing by hand and tumble dry on low.

Silk Sateen:

Cherished for centuries, Silk Sateen has long been a popular choice. It’s made from the finest fibers and has long been respected as a finer fabric because it is woven from silk filament fibers. A Sateen Weave refers to a weaving technique in which three threads are woven over one thread.

This results in a smooth and sensual feel when running across the hand or body. Sateen fabric isn’t cheap. Silk runs on the higher end, to begin with, and when made into the finished sateen material, the labor increases the cost.  Silk is a natural lightweight material that is very breathable and dries fast. Silk fabric regulates body temperatures well, so you feel cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This temperature-regulating feature is one of the reasons silk is in demand. Shop for Kimonos and Yukatas online.

            Silk feels good on the body.

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Posted in Japanese kimono, Kimono for women, Plus size kimono, Plus size kimono robe, short kimono | 1 Comment »

Frequently Asked Questions

March 19th, 2022

Chopa – Your Kimono Source is a leading online provider of authentic Japanese Kimono and yukata since 1994.  We receive many inquiries and questions each day and thought it would be informative to share some of these on our Blog.  If you want to learn more about Kimono, yukata, and Happi Coats, see our FAQ section on our website.

WHY SHOP WITH US?

There are many reasons to shop with Chopa because we are your Kimono Source. First is our reputation. Entering our 29th year in business, we are a leading online retailer of authentic Japanese Kimono and Yukata. Our customers provide us with many referrals and repeat business.  That alone speaks for itself. Some love our large selection with over 100 styles, prints, and sizes available. Others appreciate our fast shipping, while some love Free Shipping anywhere in the USA on orders of $75.00 or more. Combining any of these services along with our home office being based in the USA, it’s easy to see why customers shop with us.

HOW DO I PLACE AN ORDER?

Shopping with us is easy, safe, and secure.  Just visit our online kimono store anytime, anywhere. Our Kimono Shop never closes and you can browse, shop, and purchase kimono and yukata 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SHIP A KIMONO?

Most orders ship within one business day and many ship the same day. We pride ourselves on fast shipping and work diligently to expedite orders. We are located in the Northwest Panhandle of Florida and ship six days per week. We are a professional, full-time business that understands the need for a quick turnaround of your order. Some companies only ship a few days per week. Others are located in other countries like Japan, Taiwan, Korea, or China. From the feedback we receive from customers, many of these foreign-based companies lie about quick shipping and fail to deliver promptly.

Common complaints we hear from customers buying a kimono from an Asian-based company are lack of service, the long shipping times, and the inability to receive a response or reply from those businesses.  This is something we deplore in any business and always respond to our customers quickly, timely, and responsibly. Another complaint we hear about buying from an overseas company is the difficulty of returning an item.  Most customers say it is impossible.

DO I HAVE TO REGISTER OR SET UP AN ACCOUNT ON YOUR SITE?

No.  We never force our customers to store information on our website.  There is an option to establish an account and some customers choose to do so, but it is not mandatory. It is offered simply as a convenience for our customers.  The majority of customers who opt-in for an account are frequent buyers of our fine robes.  They often gift them to their business customers, shop for theater groups or hospitality companies.  We have several customer groups that rent homes, condos, and beach retreats, and provide their vacation renters with complimentary kimonos, Yukata, and Happi Coats. The bottom line is that you can purchase robes as a guest or establish an online account. The choice is yours.

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?

Chopa accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and PayPal. If you use PayPal, you can also use American Express. We use state-of-the-art technology including SSL, Secure Socket Layer platforms. All information is encrypted and payment information is never stored on our servers or computers. We also accept mail orders via checks or money orders.  We do not accept cash and never advise customers to send credit card information through email or mail.

HOW MUCH IS SHIPPING?

Orders of $75.00 or more ship Free anywhere in the USA including Alaska and Hawaii. Orders less than $75.00 are charged a nominal fee of $6.95 for one robe. We also ship internationally and the cost is listed in the shopping cart at checkout. The amount varies depending on the country and weight of the package.

DO YOU CHARGE SALES TAX ON PURCHASES?

Yes, we collect sales tax on orders shipped within the state of Florida.  We do not collect taxes in other states. While sales tax isn’t collected in other states, this doesn’t mean that you may not owe sales tax. Many municipalities require purchasers to self-report and pay their own.  You can check with your state to determine if this is required.

WHY DON’T YOU CHARGE CUSTOMS, DUTIES, TAXES, and IMPORT FEES ON ORDERS LIKE OTHER COMPANIES DO?

This question is common and the reason is that we have taken care of all import fees for you if you reside in the USA.  If you purchase a kimono or yukata from a business in Japan or another foreign country, you are subject to these costs. The package is an import and you are responsible for customs taxes, import duties, import fees, and other accessorial charges imposed by the government and the carrier for handling the cost of collecting.  Chopa is a direct importer and we pay all of these costs when we receive an order from one of our partners in Japan. This is another reason, customers like to shop with us. You won’t receive a surprise bill with your order. Our reputation stands on its own and we take the guesswork out of online kimono shopping. Shop with confidence when you shop with us.

Chopa makes online kimono shopping easy!

Kimono Shopping | www.chopa.com

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Posted in cotton yukata, Japanese kimono, Japanese kimono for sale, Kimono for women, Plus size kimono robe, short kimono | Comments Off on Frequently Asked Questions

Finding The Most Popular Kimonos

March 13th, 2022

TOP SELLING KIMONO and YUKATA FOR FEBRUARY, 2022.

Our customers are the pulse of our business.  When they visit our online Kimono Shop, they seek beautiful patterns, vivid colors, and unique styles. Customers also want a wide selection of sizes, reasonable pricing, and fast shipping from the USA.  There is a reason our customers have been shopping at our store since 1994. Because they find everything they want in one store, Chopa – Your Kimono Source.

Each month, we sit down and look back on what the Best Selling Japanese Kimono and Yukata robes were during the previous month. It is important as well as educational to see what was hot. One month it might be dragon prints, another period may include koi fish. Some patterns and styles are seasonal. For example, short-length kimono, or Happi Coats as they are called pick up steam and sell very well in Spring and Summer.  Many customers like the shorter-length robe to wear during the warmer months to stay cooler. Others wear them as coverups at the beach or pool.

A customer emailed us the other day asking where are our kimonos made.  We replied that all of our kimono and yukata robes are made in Japan.  We operate and are based in the USA however, so we can ship quickly from our main warehouse in Northwest Florida. Transit time normally takes 2-3 business days to anywhere in the USA. We hear of horror stories when people purchase a kimono from a vendor in Japan and how long it takes to arrive. We take the guesswork out of online Kimono shopping.  We are direct importers, cover all duties, taxes and also offer easy returns.

People realize after the fact, that when you order a kimono from a foreign country, you often receive a bill upon delivery for duties, taxes, customs fees, and any other auxiliary charges. Charges that were unexpected and not mentioned when they placed their order. This won’t happen if you shop with us in the USA.

Here are the TOP FIVE SELLING KIMONO AND YUKATA FOR FEBRUARY, 2022.

1: Yukata – Tree of Life.  The Tree of Life Yukata is frequently a top customer pick. This men’s yukata features a geometric print that dates back to 2000 B.C. The design is produced in a gray, black, and white-colored print. It is made of 100% cotton and is very distinctive when worn to a special event or ceremony.

2: Blue Koi Yukata. This Koi Yukata is selected by men and women. The blue and white print displays the elegant koi swimming in water. In Buddhism, koi represent courage. In Japan, these fish are considered to be symbolic of love and affection. Crafted in Japan of fine cotton with a shrink-resistant finish.

3: Yukata – Eternal Chain. Printed in a crisp blue and white pattern, the Eternal Chain forms a never-ending circle representing eternity. The chains are symbolic of life, hope, and, strength. The connectivity has no beginning or end and goes around in a circle forever.

4: Yukata – Navy Kagome. Kagome translates to the woven bamboo pattern. Printed in a dark navy blue and white palette, the artist designed beautiful bamboo silhouetted against subtle contrasting circles. The combination is reminiscent of old-world craftsmanship and simplicity.

5: Black Kimono Samurai Robe. This Japanese kimono provides the Zen you need after a long day at the office.  Sit back, relax and feel the calm in this lightweight, yet durable robe.  This kimono is perfect for attending ceremonies or simply relaxing at home. It is popular for meditating as well. Produced from 100% cotton broadcloth. This high-end fabric is densely woven and often used in fine dress shirts.

These five kimono and yukata were our customer favorites in February. You can view any or all of these by visiting our online store. We have new shipments arriving over the next two months and should have adequate supplies to carry us through the busier season.  A great big thank you goes out to all of our readers and customers for allowing us to share this information with you each month.  It’s a team effort. Our customers team with us and we announce the results.

Thanks for reading, now Get Your Kimono On!!

                         Eternal Chain Yukata

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Follow Us On Social Media.

March 6th, 2022

Follow us. Pin Us. Tweet Us. Like Us. Read our latest Blog. In other words, keep in touch with us on social media.

Chopa.com has been a leading provider of authentic Japanese Kimono and yukata robes since 1994.  We pride ourselves on being a 100% Employee-owned company and providing excellent customer service.  We have a passion and nearly 29 years ago, we took that passion and turned it into one of the premiere kimono dealers on the web. Great selection, quality robes, and fast shipping from the USA.  Join us on Social media.

Chopa – Your Kimono Source maintains an opt-in customer email list and sends out periodical emails. It serves as a way to remind customers we are here and ready to serve up a brand new Japanese Kimono Yukata.  Besides the newsletter, we also use Social Media to stay in touch with existing or potential new customers.

Here are a few reasons it benefits you to ride along with us on this Japanese inspired social media journey:

Stay up-to-date with the latest news and products from Chopa. We love to publish announcements of new arrivals, new colors, prints, and patterns.  Social media is usually the first place we inform our customers. We also keep followers up to date with arrivals, delays, and ordering processes at our production facilities in Japan. This was very handy with the Covid Pandemic and continues today. Due to extended restrictions in certain areas, shipping is still very tricky to import into the USA.  Our partners also have difficulties or delays with printing fabrics. We posted a lot of updates pre-holiday about what to expect and when to order. This helped our customers immensely.

You can connect with us directly, ask questions, and provide feedback. If you have a question about something, email or text us for a prompt response, but if social media is your preferred communication, send us a note.

We invite customers to send in pictures of themselves wearing their favorite kimono or yukata.  If they approve, we include their social media handle and you can like and or follow them.  You can also ask questions and discover what other customers’ interests are.

You can see what others are saying about our kimono, yukata, and other products and services. Unless derogatory or offensive, we allow customer posts and comments. Chopa invites you to share our media pages with friends and family members that have the same interests. We can learn from each other.  We receive far more emails and texts than we do social media contacts, so help us spread the word and let people know we are here and to join us.

You can join in on online conversations and discussions about the Japanese Kimono, Chopa, and our industry. By engaging with us on social media, you create a two-way communication channel that allows you to stay informed while also giving feedback and voicing your opinion. It’s a win-win! Tell us about things you would like to see, new experiences you would be interested in.

Chopa also posts information on new products, flash sales, closeouts, discounts, and specials. If a fabric is discontinued and we are down to just a few kimono or yukata, we will mark them down to finish off the lot and enable our customers the opportunity to pick up a great deal.

Here is how to reach us on social media:

Facebook –  https://www.facebook.com/KimonoYukataStore

Twitter – https://twitter.com/kimonosource

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/your_kimono_source

Pinterest – https://www.pinterest.com/YourKimonoSource

Blog – https://www.chopa.com/blog

Social media can be a powerful tool for customers to stay in touch. It allows you to connect with us on a more personal level without high pressure sales tactics or expectations.  If you’re not following Chopa – Your Kimono Source on social media, what are you waiting for?  Join us today and be part of our Kimono family.

Follow Chopa.com on social media

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You Ought To Be In Pictures!

February 27th, 2022

Want to be a Model or just look like one?

Has anyone ever told you that you should be in pictures?  Have you had a secret desire to be a model? Do you like posting images on Social Media?  Then read ahead and see what we have available for you.

Kimonos are a beautiful and unique aspect of Japanese culture. If you’re ever in Japan, it’s worth your time to wear one. And if you’re not in Japan, don’t worry – there are still ways to enjoy kimonos. Chopa – Your Kimono Source since 1994 has over 100 kimono, yukata, and short-length Happi Coats to choose from.

After you acquire one, where will you wear yours?  What will you do while wearing a beautiful robe? Some wear kimono lounging around the home or using it as a coverup after a bath or shower.  Others wear yukata as loungewear while catching up on their reading or emails. Some customers wear one while tending to light household choirs, while others binge-watch their favorite movies or TV series. Heading to a party or special event? Don’t leave home without your kimono.

Submit your photo and you might win prizes!!

For those that want to be in pictures, we have an option for you. Chopa is looking for customers that want to show the world how they wear their kimono or yukata. We invite you to send us your images wearing your robe.  If we select your image to use, you will be entered into our contests where you are eligible to win prizes and or cash awards.  Chopa will hold drawings where selected winners can win Kimono, Yukata, Happi Coats, Gift Certificates, and even cash prizes.

Chopa will use the images online either on their website or social media like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. It’s a fun way to show our family of kimono lovers how they look, different styles, enjoying some fun times with friends and family and just being you. After all, what is better than being yourself? Chopa also sends occasional emails to customers advertising new styles, sales or random news we feel is worthwhile to share. Your image may be included in these emails.

Share your images with other customers!

If we select your image, we will contact you via email to verify your submission and approval to publish the photos.  Whether you wish your name to be listed in the images is completely up to you. We respect people’s privacy and won’t publish names without written approval. If you want to be tagged with your social media handle, we can do that.  You can also publish on your social media page and tag Chopa.

This idea has been submitted to us several times over the years. We love when our customers tell us what they want and feel this is a good time to launch this program.  Seeing real customers wearing their kimono and yukata in real-life environments is as good as it gets. Send your photos in today to info@chopa.com.

kimono photo contest

Be a Model, or just look like one!

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Posted in cotton yukata, cute kimono, Japanese kimono, Kimono for sale, Kimono for women, Plus size kimono | 1 Comment »

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