Until you watch the video now being shown at ChopaTV and on Chopa.com, it is easy to think of Japanese kimono robes as “just another piece of clothing”. Despite the fact that the word “kimono” actually means “thing to wear”, these stylish and colorful robes are anything but ordinary.
You may be wondering, “How are Japanese kimono robes and yukatas so different than other robes or loungewear?”
Did you know that Tibetan Singing Bowls are commonly used in meditation as a way to enhance spiritual growth? In many cultures, they are also considered classic instruments, and many people find their resonating music therapeutic.
The Tibetan Singing Bowl is a common sight in Nepal, where artisans have been making these instruments for hundreds of years. Because they are handmade, it is possible to own several different bowls, each with its own unique sound. As Western cultures have begun to embrace Buddhism and Hinduism, these singing Tibetan bowls have become an integral part of relaxation and meditation rituals around the world.
Black Dragon Yukata with Mt. Fuji
You may already be familiar with the Japanese kimono, but perhaps you’ve never heard of a “yukata.” Just like a kimono, a Japanese yukata is shaped like a capital “T”, but it is made from a lighter weight fabric than the kimono. Also, like kimonos, these colorful robes are often worn with a yukata obi, or sash.
Yukatas originated from the robes worn by Japanese noblemen in the 17th century, known as “yukatabira.” The word “yu” means bath, and “katabira” means “under clothing”, so while the yukata may look a lot like a kimono, wearing yukata robes as clothing in Japan might be akin to wearing pajamas in public.
Navy Dragon Yukata
Ladies, do you want your man to look fashionable by the pool or spa this summer? Then maybe it’s time to start doing some early Father’s Day shopping. This striking Navy Dragon Yukata is certain to get attention and make your favorite guy feel like a million bucks. Perfect for lounging by the pool, as a summer bathrobe, or wherever he likes to relax, this 100% cotton yukata makes an impressive statement.
Made in Japan, the legendary dragon is emblazoned on this navy blue yukata, along with gray and white stylized clouds and calligraphy. The dragon is depicted across Asian cultures as one of the Four Legendary Creatures, each of which is the guardian of the cosmic “directions”. The Dragon guards the East, and was often painted alongside the other “creatures” (tortoise, tiger and red bird) to keep evil spirits away from early Chinese tombs. The dragon is also represents the spring season, the colors green and blue, and the element of wood. Its virtue is Propriety and it is an enduring symbol of Yang male energy. Read the rest of this entry »
Blue Koi Yukata Robe
Transform your downtime with this sumptuous Blue Carp Koi Yukata Robe. A lighter-weight cotton version of a traditional Japanese kimono, the Yukata is still widely used in Japan. These summer kimonos are worn by both men and women, but linen “yukatabira” were originally draped around court noblemen after bathing. They didn’t gain popularity with the general public until people started wearing them in Japanese public bathhouses. Today, they are worn quite regularly at Japanese festivals and ryokan, or simply as loungewear.
This Blue Carp Koi Yukata is emblazoned with a legendary symbol of perseverance and strength. According to Japanese legend, a koi fish will generally swim upstream until it reaches the final waterfall, where it vaults itself into the mists and emerges as a water dragon. This is how the koi became emblematic of purposeful determination in the face of adversity, and today it still stands for superior courage.
Also known as a wild carp, many Japanese families keep koi in a garden pond at their home to bring them good fortune or luck. As a result, koi enjoy an elevated status throughout Asia and have become a popular theme for tattoos. It is the koi’s association with worldly aspiration and advancement that make them such a highly regarded symbol of success. Some koi are bred for their spectacular colors, which range from silver and gold to orange, black, yellow and even calico, making them appear like swimming jewels.
Celebrate the beauty and magic of the legendary koi with this Blue Carp Koi Yukata Robe. Its navy blue and white pattern makes an elegant statement in crisp 100% cotton. Made in Japan, this robe is available in three sizes (XL, XXL and XXXL) and includes a matching belt.
What man or woman needs a Japanese Kimono for the holidays? Everyone knows someone who should be wearing this gorgeous, regal looking Japanese robe. Not just any kimono, the Black Shogun Kimono is made for a person who should have been born into nobility. You know the type: always in command of every situation, a veritable dynamo in all aspects of life.
This obsidian black kimono is accented all over with the Japanese calligraphy symbols for “shōgun” in red and gold, and comes with a matching belt. It can be worn on lazy weekend mornings as a robe, or as a cover-up at the pool. For that person in your life who has everything, this robe will be appreciated for its uniqueness and versatility.
In Japanese culture, the symbol for a shōgun refers to a “general who can fight off barbarians”, and is also known as a warlord or “generalissimo” – the highest military rank in the Japanese armed forces. While the title shogun is no longer used today, it recalls an important time in Japanese history.
Calligraphic symbols are often used in Japanese fabric design because in Zen culture, they are akin to art. In fact, all Japanese calligraphy was influenced by masters of Zen thought. This is because a calligrapher has only one chance to create a symbol with a brush. Fluid execution requires extreme concentration for a brief moment in time, which requires the master to clear his mind and let the letters flow out effortlessly. Known as the “no mind state”, this practice is based on the spiritual principles of Zen Buddhism.
When one wears this Black Shogun Kimono, they are not only the master of their physical plane; they are also connected to the spiritual world of Zen calligraphy. The classic style of this Japanese-made robe fits comfortably on a 5’10” – 6’1” frame, and has extra-long sleeves. It makes a dramatic statement and a luxurious gift.
The Shodo Yukata is available at www.chopa.com
In Japan, the kimono is such a commonly known garment that the word “kimono” is literally translated as “thing to wear”, or clothing.
This particular type of full-length robe is a roomy, wide, and T-shaped, with little design variation, other than being available in a selection of splashy satin fabrics and colors. In Japanese ceremonies, kimonos are worn by both men and women, which is why the hem falls about 56” down to the ankle. They are typically wrapped around the body, left side wrapped over right, and finished with a wide belt, or obi, tied in the back.
In modern-day Japan, kimonos are worn more often by women, primarily on special occasions. A few elderly ladies and even fewer older gentlemen still wear a kimono every day. They are also seen wrapped around professional Sumo wrestlers, who must dress in traditional Japanese attire when making public appearances.
A lighter, more summery version of the Kimono is called the Yukata. This 100% cotton, kimono-style robe is more commonly worn as loungewear, after a bath, or as a cover-up at the pool. While most Yukatas are made in less decorative fabrics than kimonos, there are many brightly colored fabrics available for women.
Popular kimono designs include repetitive patters of koi, dragons, butterflies, cranes, lilies or cherry blossoms. Most kimonos come with a matching fabric sash, but they are often worn with a heko or kaku obi, or belt, on special occasions.
Kimonos are an elegant and traditional piece of Japanese culture, and the act of wearing one is steeped in tradition. In addition to the many methods for wrapping and tying a kimono, there are subtle aspects of kimonos that, to a trained eye, can tell a lot about the wearer. But don’t let this keep you from wearing one. Unless you are attending a formal gathering in Japan, chances are you will never need to worry about adhering to these traditions.
Zen Inspired Life
