When choosing a yukata, have you ever thought about the meaning behind its patterns?
While yukata are often chosen for their "cuteness" or current "trends," a wide variety of wishes and meanings are embedded in these designs, ranging from traditional to modern patterns. This time, we will explain the meanings of various patterns, so why not try choosing your yukata this year from a slightly different perspective than usual?
＞＞We also recommend this article: Yukata Rental in Kyoto's Gion Festival at wargo
Meanings of Patterns Incorporated in Yukata
Goldfish (Happiness and Abundance)
Since ancient times, goldfish have been regarded in various countries as very auspicious items, with folklore saying they bring wealth and happiness.
In addition, the colors of goldfish reportedly carry specific meanings: red goldfish are said to "invite happiness," while black goldfish are said to "absorb evil spirits." Since the pattern also evokes the coolness of summer, it is perfect for fireworks festivals and summer festivals.
Hydrangea (Harmony and Family Unity)
Because hydrangea flowers bloom as a single flower formed by numerous petals (sepals) gathering closely together, they convey meanings that evoke close relationships, such as "harmony" and "family unity."
Other meanings include "persevering love," stemming from how they endure the rainy season to bloom beautifully, and "energetic woman," since June and July—the hydrangea blooming season—are mild and comfortable seasons in France.
Hydrangeas are a classic yukata pattern, but it is also recommended to decide on one by thinking about what meaning you want to give it before heading out.
Peony, Chinese Peony, and Lily (Happiness and Wealth)
As the saying goes, "A standing peony, a sitting Chinese peony, and a walking lily," peonies, Chinese peonies, and lilies have long been considered symbols of beautiful women.
While peonies are sometimes considered inauspicious because their flowers drop easily, the pattern itself carries the opposite meaning.
It just might bring good fortune to the person wearing the yukata.
Butterfly (Smiles and Elegance)
From the process of transforming from a pupa into a butterfly, this pattern carries meanings of rebirth, transformation, and immortality.
Due to the homophone for "long" (cho), it also represents "longevity" and other positive attributes. Furthermore, in matters of romance, it is said to embody the wish for something to "last forever," so why not choose this pattern for a yukata date with your partner?
Iris (Victory, Good Manners, and Wardrobe against Evil)
Because the word for iris (shobu) sounds like the words for competitiveness and martial values (shobu), it is said to signify strong competitiveness and good manners.
As seen in the remnants of the May seasonal festival, irises have long been believed to possess talismanic powers to ward off evil and were used in formal, prestigious events. Even today, they are used as patterns for formal wear such as coming-of-age ceremony kimonos.
Cherry Blossom (New Beginnings and Abundance)
Evoking the fresh budding of spring, this is an auspicious flower that symbolizes brand-new beginnings. Cherry blossoms are the ultimate classic pattern for kimonos and yukatas, but some people might feel a sense of incongruity: spring flowers on a summer yukata?
However, cherry blossom patterns represent the national flower and remain popular throughout the entire year, making them perfectly fine to wear regardless of the season.
Why not choose a cherry blossom pattern to accentuate the cuteness of your yukata?
Plum Blossom (Perseverance, Prosperity, and a Pure Heart)
This pattern carries the meanings of perseverance, prosperity, and a pure heart.
Because plum blossoms bravely endure the cold, harsh winter to bloom as the very first flowers of spring, they are considered a symbol of "perseverance." Additionally, the plum blossom's language of flowers includes "a pure heart."
Why not choose a yukata pattern this year that evokes a strong and beautiful woman?
Morning Glory (Strong Bonds and Affection)
Because morning glories are short-lived flowers that bloom in the morning and wither by noon, they have the flower language of "fleeting love." However, because their vines wrap firmly around supports, they also embody meanings such as "strong bonds" and "affection."
Morning glories, which bloom around the time of the Tanabata festival, are also said to be auspicious flowers celebrating the once-a-year meeting of Orihime and Hikoboshi. This pattern is frequently used for men's yukatas as well. When going out with someone special, it is wonderful to wear matching morning glory-patterned yukatas.
Sunflower (Adoration, Passionate Love, and Passion)
This pattern carries the meanings of adoration, passionate love, and passion.
There are various theories, but the sunflower's language of flowers, "adoration," is said to originate from the fact that sunflowers always turn to face the direction of the sun as it moves.
It also carries the most famous meaning: "I gaze only at you." When going out with someone you have a crush on or someone you admire, choose this pattern to gently convey your feelings through your yukata.
Rose (Love, Beauty, and Timid Shyness)
The language of flowers for roses includes many meanings such as "love," "beauty," "timid shyness," "radiance," "charm," "affection," "freshness," "sweetness," and "innocence."
While people often say, "Every rose has its thorn" or speak of "a single rose," please enjoy this pattern, which has long been popular as a symbol of women, on your yukata as well.
Wisteria (Everlasting Beauty, Intoxicated by Love, Never Leaving)
Since ancient times in Japan, the purple color of wisteria flowers has been regarded as a noble color, and the flower is frequently used as a metaphor representing women.
Wisteria-patterned yukatas often feature mature, sophisticated designs, making them recommended for those who want to accentuate the charm of a special, mature woman.
Chrysanthemum (Nobility, Dignity, and Purity)
Chrysanthemums have long been considered auspicious flowers believed to have anti-aging and longevity benefits.
Beyond being auspicious, chrysanthemums are treated in Japan as such prestigious flowers that they are even used as the crest of the Emperor and the Imperial Family. It is a popular pattern that remains untethered to fleeting trends.
Conclusion
From traditional classical patterns to modern designs, there are numerous patterns available for yukata.
Each and every one of them holds a distinct meaning, and for those who have simply chosen them at random until now, it can be wonderful to change patterns depending on the occasion.
Whether it is choosing a yukata pattern that suits you or aspiring to embody the meaning behind the pattern, changing how you select your yukata may make wearing one even more enjoyable than ever before.
We sincerely hope you have a wonderful summer wearing a yukata this year.
