Summer in Japan; Yukata, A Seasonal Tradition

 Yukata, a Japanese traditional clothing, is probably one of the most well known costumes of Japan. Yukata is used to worn as pajama during summer, and hotels and Onsen still serve Yukata as nightwear. Most of Yukata that hotels provide are designed pretty simple and have traditional sober color, but recently, some hotels are starting to provide colorful type. Those new type Yukata is becoming very popular among young women. In addition, some hotels have a service to present the Yukata to the passengers, thus Yukata is becoming a sort of resort wear.

 Since the summer festival is carried out throughout the country between July-August in Japan, sales of Yukata grows from that time. At the same time, you will see Japanese fan, clogs, as well as hair ornaments that are worn to match the Yukata at shops.

 Cotton was originally used for the traditional Yukata, but those mixed polyester or hemp were also increased in recent years. The hand-sewn made ​​is the basic method of manufacturing a Yukata. but because the youth who wear Yukata only during a summer period of summer has been increased, Yukata that mass-produced by sewing machine is being popular among the youth and as a souvenir to overseas.

 Now, Yukata for kids are attracting attention in the market. One of online shops called "I Love Baby" has been making a good sales on kid's Yukata every year. Yukata that they sale is a modernistic, pretty Yukata which a frill and a lace are garnished with. The tie looks like a big ribbon is easy to tie, and the design is cute and very easy to move for the children. The new models for 2014 is on its way. 

  The benefits of wearing Yukata is not only as a fashion or because it's cute. In Japan, some amusement park offers a privilege for the customer if they visit them wearing Yukata. It will be fun to join the event if you have a chance to visit Japan during summer.

 Moreover, as a famous summer event of Japan, there is a Tanabata on 7/7. In Japanese legend , on the special and romantic day of Tanabata, a separated couple "Orihime" and "Hikoboshi" are allowed to meet across the Milky Way. On this day, Japanese people write their wish on a strip of paper, and decorate it to the leaves of bamboo. In Japan, it is said that wish comes true by doing so on Tanabata day.

 Finally, I would like to introduce you the fireworks shows, the best part of summer in Japan. Intense sound of explosion, hot air, and beautiful fireworks...you will never forget once you see the show. Fireworks shows are held here and there between July to August. 

 If you never experienced the summer in Japan, I highly recommend you to come enjoy the gracious summer festivals and the comfort of yukata once. Hopefully, it worth for you.