To enjoy kimonos and accessories with Japanese patterns, it is recommended to know the types and meanings of them.

However, many people who are fascinated by Japanese pattern designs tend to say, "I don't have many opportunities to learn about the characteristics of Japanese patterns."

In this article, we will introduce in detail the characteristics of Japanese patterns that can be seen from their history, as well as the types of representative Japanese patterns that are loved by many Japanese people. Please use this as a reference when choosing Japanese accessories and clothing.

What are Japanese patterns?

Japanese patterns are a term that refers to traditional Japanese patterns that are arranged in a regular pattern.

It is also called a Japanese pattern.

Japanese patterns are used in traditional crafts, yukata patterns, chiyogami paper, etc. They are also the designs that foreign tourists choose when buying Japanese souvenirs.

Design characteristics seen from the history of Japanese patterns

The Japanese patterns used today originate from designs from the Heian period onwards.

Even earlier, from the Asuka period to the Nara period and the early Heian period, Japan was heavily influenced by the Tang and Sui dynasties through envoys to the Tang and Sui dynasties, and most designs were foreign-style and not unique to Japan.

However, in the Heian period, arrangements of Tang culture and unique Japanese designs became popular among the nobility. It is said that during this period, when hiragana was born, Japanese pattern designs also underwent a major change.

During the Edo period, patterns inspired by Kabuki actors appeared, and Japanese patterns developed through a series of changes. To this day, while historical patterns are still being passed down, patterns based on nature are on the rise.

The types, meanings, and characteristics of typical Japanese patterns

There are countless types of Japanese patterns even today. Here we will introduce the characteristics and appeal of Japanese patterns that are loved by many Japanese people.

Kouji connecting characters

This is a Japanese pattern with repeated combinations of the character "工".

The "tsunagi" (connected character) pattern, which repeats a basic pattern like the 工 (工) character, has the meaning of "eternal longevity" or continuing for a long time without interruption. This pattern also has the characteristic of being often chosen when praying for the prosperity and longevity of the family.

Arrow feathers and arrow picks

Arrow feathers are designs that resemble the feathers of an eagle or hawk that are attached to the top of an arrow.

Since arrows have the meaning of "hitting the target," they have long been used as a lucky pattern. In the late 1970s, influenced by the popular girls' manga "Haikara-san to Tooru," more and more female students began wearing arrow feather kimonos with shrimp-brown hakama at their graduation ceremonies.

Shippo Tsunagi (Tail Connection)

This is a Japanese pattern in which the circumferences of multiple circles are overlapped by quarters and connected vertically and horizontally. It is also called a ring-shaped connecting pattern.

Some people see the central part as a shining star, and the overlapping parts as petals. The pattern continues forever in all four directions, and is considered to be a very auspicious pattern that evokes prosperity of descendants and marital harmony.

Chidorimon (plover pattern)

This is a very cute Japanese pattern featuring a flock of flying plovers. It is also called wave plovers.

The harmonious scene of two plovers represents wishes for marital harmony and safety in the home. The houndstooth pattern, which is often seen in modern clothing, is said to be a further simplification of the traditional Japanese houndstooth pattern.

Tortoise shell

This is a Japanese pattern made by connecting regular hexagons left and right, top and bottom.

Kikko, which was originally introduced to Japan from China, is said to be a pattern that was popular from the Heian period to the Kamakura period. This Japanese pattern, which represents a turtle shell in the shape of a regular hexagon, is imbued with wishes for longevity and good fortune. When the kikko has two layers, it is sometimes called komochi kikko.

Matsumon

Pine trees, which have a long lifespan, have long been believed to be trees inhabited by gods.

The reason behind these wishes is largely due to the fact that the pine tree remains leafless throughout the year. Pine trees are not only a traditional Japanese design, but also have the appeal of serving as a landmark for the New Year deity, as in the Kadomatsu decoration. Pine patterns are also popular Japanese designs that convey wishes for longevity and good fortune.

Treasures galore

This Japanese pattern, which features auspicious treasures like the ones shown below, has a long history dating back to the Muromachi period, when it was established as a lucky motif.

• Magic Mallet
• Nyoi Jewel
• Disguise etc.

The types of lucky charms scattered across this Japanese pattern vary depending on the region. The name "Tsukushi" means that different motifs are gathered together in the same category. Other Japanese patterns include shell patterns.

Sakura Chirashi

It is a Japanese pattern with flower petals and cherry blossoms scattered all over.

This pattern, which can be used regardless of the season, has been featured in various poems since the Heian period. Then, during the spring season from March to April, many Japanese patterns featuring more realistic cherry blossom designs appear. Generally, they are filled with wishes for prosperity, bountiful harvests, good fortune, and the like.

summary

Japanese patterns, which are indispensable for Japanese accessories and kimonos, have a long history of undergoing constant change.

Another great appeal of Japanese patterns, where the same design is repeated, is that they are easy to coordinate even for those wearing kimono for the first time.They are also appreciated for their auspicious nature, so when choosing a kimono, be sure to pay attention to Japanese patterns.

This article has been partially re-edited by KARUTA from an article originally published on "Nihongo Biyori."
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