About Me
Hello, my name is Umeko, and I run this website.
I was born and raised in Fukuoka, Japan, and I still live here today.
I created this site to share the charm of Japan—especially its traditional culture, performing arts, and most of all, kimono—with people all over the world. My goal is to help readers experience the beauty and joy of Japanese traditions in a simple and accessible way.
My Background
Since my school days, I’ve always loved exploring international culture. As a teenager, I enjoyed watching foreign dramas and listening to Western music.
During university, I participated in a one-month homestay in Hawaii and, about ten years ago, spent half a year in Vancouver, Canada. It was there that some classmates praised Japan, which made me realize the unique beauty of my own culture.
These experiences inspired me to take a deeper interest in Japanese traditions and performing arts. A few years ago, I decided to share that interest with others so that more people could appreciate the richness of Japan’s cultural heritage.
Kimono and Me
Discovering Kimono
I began wearing kimono about five years ago, but my fascination with them started much earlier.
Over ten years ago, I visited a kimono store with my mother to look at furisode (long-sleeved kimono). I still remember being completely mesmerized by the beauty and elegance of each piece. Choosing just one among so many stunning options was almost impossible!
At that time, however, I thought of kimono as expensive, fragile, and only for special occasions. I didn’t consider wearing them myself.
Several years later, a friend invited me to a kimono dressing class. I couldn’t attend with her, but the idea of wearing kimono stayed with me. Around the same time, my mother told me that my grandmother loved kimono and that some of hers were still preserved.
That inspired me to learn how to wear them myself. Wearing my grandmother’s kimono was a deeply moving experience, as if I could connect with her through the fabric and patterns. The more I learned about kimono, the more captivated I became. Today, wearing kimono is one of my greatest joys.
What Kimono Means to Me
Kimono gives me confidence and comfort.
When I wear one, even on a gloomy day, I feel, “Maybe I’m not so bad after all.” And when I’m tired or stressed, just looking at a kimono can soothe my mind.
Kimono has become an essential part of my life, not just clothing but a source of joy and reassurance.
Kimono Is Not Just for Special Occasions
Many people think kimono are expensive and only for special events, but that isn’t the whole story.
By using recycled kimono, it is possible to enjoy them affordably. In fact, most of the kimono I own are second-hand.
Kimono are much more than garments—they are a way to experience beauty, tradition, and confidence without spending a fortune.
Through this website, I hope to show that kimono can be enjoyed by anyone, more easily than most people imagine.
Sharing the Real Kimono
Sadly, searching “Kimono” online often leads to many counterfeit products. This is frustrating and disheartening.
Because I truly love kimono, I want to share accurate knowledge and convey their genuine beauty to as many people as possible.
On this site, I do not focus on complicated rules or strict traditions. Even Japanese people can feel overwhelmed by some of these customs, which is one reason fewer people wear kimono today.
Instead, I share ideas on how to enjoy kimono casually and confidently, making it more accessible for everyone.
Looking Ahead
Through kimono, my interest in Japanese culture has expanded to include traditional dance, Kabuki theater, and other arts. Japan has a long history and countless traditions, and even I still have much to learn.
I hope this site can share not only the joy of kimono but also the fascinating culture, customs, and stories of Japan.
If you have any questions or comments about my articles, please feel free to reach out. It would make me very happy if this site inspires you to enjoy kimono and Japanese culture in your own life.