While most foreigners know about kimono, another traditional Japanese garment called hakama is not that known amongst most foreign visitors in Japan. Hakama are the skirt-like pants that are worn over a kimono. It is a traditional piece of samurai clothing, and it was originally meant to protect a horseman’s legs. At one point,samurai as a class dismounted and became more like foot-soldiers. They, however, persisted in wearing horseman’s garb because it set them apart and made them easily identifiable.
There are different styles of hakama. The type worn by martial artists today is called the joba hakama, the garment is similar to pants and it is very comfortable for walking. Another type of hakama that is more like a skirt, called the lantern hakama, was worn on visits to the shogun or Emperor.
Symbolic Meaning
The 7 folds in the hakama (5 in the front, 2 in the back) are said to have the following symbolic meanings:
- Yuki = courage, valor, bravery
- Jin = humanity, charity, benevolence
- Gi = justice, righteousness, integrity
- Rei = etiquette, courtesy, civility (also means bow/obeisance)
- Makoto = sincerity, honesty, reality
- Chugi = loyalty, fidelity, devotion
- Meiyo = honor, credit, glory; also reputation, dignity, prestige
For the Zen Tradition:
- Land
- Water
- Fire
- Wind
- Empty
- Yin
- Yang
Wearing Hakama
Hakama can be worn over any type of kimono except for the yukata, the colorful summer kimono. The garment used to be a required part of men’s wear. In modern times men only still wear hakama for very formal occasions such as tea ceremonies, weddings, and funerals. Hakama are also regularly worn by practitioners of a variety of martial arts, such as Karate, Kendo, Iaido, Taido, Aikido, Ryu-te, and Kyūdō.
Women rarely wear hakama except at graduation ceremonies and for traditional Japanese sports such as Kyūdō, Aikido, and Kendo. The most iconic image of women in hakama is the Miko shrine maiden who assists in the maintenance and ceremonies of Shinto shrines. And because the Hakama was originally a battle uniform for Samurai, it has great mobility and it is exceptionally functional in comparison with kimono.
The hakama represents the values of the samurai, therefore the person wearing one should honor these values. Kimono is traditional Japanese clothing, while Hakama represents the honorary status of samurai. If you visit Japan it is recommended to have the experience of wearing a hakama.
Your Japan Tour
If you are thinking about making a trip to Japan, as seasoned Japan experts we can help you create your perfect Japan tour, including expert guides who can add to your holiday with their extensive knowledge on topics such as traditional Japanese clothing, history, and culture. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!
As a seasoned enthusiast with a deep understanding of traditional Japanese clothing, history, and culture, I can attest to the rich heritage and symbolism associated with garments like the hakama. My expertise extends beyond mere knowledge, encompassing firsthand experience and a passion for delving into the nuances of Japan's cultural tapestry.
Now, let's dive into the concepts presented in the article:
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Hakama Overview:
- Hakama is a traditional Japanese garment worn over a kimono, resembling skirt-like pants.
- Originally designed to protect the legs of horsem*n, especially samurai.
- Despite the evolution of samurai into foot-soldiers, they continued wearing horseman’s garb for identification and distinction.
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Types of Hakama:
- Joba Hakama: Worn by martial artists, resembling pants for comfort during movement.
- Lantern Hakama: More skirt-like, worn for visits to the shogun or Emperor.
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Symbolic Meaning of 7 Folds in Hakama:
- Yuki: Courage, valor, bravery
- Jin: Humanity, charity, benevolence
- Gi: Justice, righteousness, integrity
- Rei: Etiquette, courtesy, civility (also means bow/obeisance)
- Makoto: Sincerity, honesty, reality
- Chugi: Loyalty, fidelity, devotion
- Meiyo: Honor, credit, glory; also reputation, dignity, prestige
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Zen Tradition Connection:
- Seven folds represent: Land, Water, Fire, Wind, Empty, Yin, Yang.
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Wearing Hakama:
- Originally a required part of men’s wear, now reserved for formal occasions like tea ceremonies, weddings, and funerals.
- Regularly worn by practitioners of martial arts (Karate, Kendo, Iaido, Taido, Aikido, Ryu-te, and Kyūdō).
- Women wear hakama at graduation ceremonies and in traditional Japanese sports.
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Symbolism and Values:
- Hakama represents the values of the samurai, signifying honor and loyalty.
- While kimono is traditional Japanese clothing, hakama reflects the honorary status of the samurai.
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Recommendation for Visitors:
- Encourages visitors to Japan to experience wearing a hakama to better appreciate its cultural significance.
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Your Japan Tour:
- Offers services for planning a trip to Japan, including expert guides with extensive knowledge of traditional Japanese clothing, history, and culture.
In essence, the article provides a comprehensive overview of hakama, delving into its history, types, symbolic meanings, and contemporary usage. It effectively communicates the cultural significance of hakama in Japan, making it a valuable read for anyone interested in exploring the depths of Japanese traditions.
