Traditional Japanese designs, or Wagara, are a type of pattern peculiar to Japan.
The most well known of these take a single design and create patterns by placing the design systematically on fabric.
They're mostly used for kimono, packaging, and other goods and sundries, but not only are they ultra cute - they also have serious meanings behind them!
Wave Crest - Seigaiha
This design is made of rows of ocean waves forming a fan-shaped pattern.
It symbolizes the desire for continued peaceful living, like the tranquil waves.
Hemp Leaf - Asanoha
This pattern was named after its resemblance to a hemp leaf.
It is connected to the ideas of growth and children's health, since hemp is durable and grows quickly.
Tortoise Shell - Kikkou
This pattern is made of a bunch of tortoise shell shapes.
Tortoises have long been a symbol of longevity, so this pattern is also a prayer for long life.
Fletching - Yagasuri
This pattern is based on arrow fletching.
It is used as a lucky charm for weddings and other ceremonies, as it is based on the Japanese saying that, once an arrow is fired, it never returns.
Folding Fan - Uchiwa
A pattern made to look like an opened folding fan.
Fans stand for development and prosperity.
Your friends might be pleasantly surprised to get wrapping cloth or a towel as a souvenir using a pattern that stands for something they like.
If this interests you, research what kind of traditional Japanese Wagara patterns are out there before you next come to Japan!
Illustrations courtesy of Manga de Japan
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.
Limited time offer: 10% discount coupons available now!
Recommended places for you
-
Kyoto National Museum
History Museums
Kyoto Station, To-ji Temple
-
Menu
ISHIDAYA Hanare
Yakiniku
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Goods
Yoshida Gennojo-Roho Kyoto Buddhist Altars
Gift Shops
Nijo Castle, Kyoto Imperial Palace
-
Kamesushi Sohonten
Sushi
Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi
-
Appealing
Rukku and Uohei
Izakaya
Sapporo / Chitose
-
Jukuseiniku-to Namamottsuarera Nikubaru Italian Nikutaria Sannomiya
Izakaya
Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano
-
Step Into the Story: Inside Immersive Fort Tokyo
-
12 Unique & Fun Tokyo Food Tours to Enjoy in 2024
-
Best Things to Do in Tokyo in April 2024: Events, Festivals & More
-
Where to Eat in Shibuya: 14 Must-Try Restaurants for Yakiniku, Sushi, Izakayas, Cafes and More
-
Where to Eat in Yokohama: 10 Must-Try Restaurants for Yakiniku, Izakayas, Unique Dining & More
-
Discover Osaka Station City: A Journey Through Its Most Fascinating Spots
-
Aizu-Wakamatsu Sake Crawl: Enjoy the Heart of Fukushima's Sake Culture
-
Exploring Tokyo: 3 Must-Visit Spots around Tokyo Station
-
10 Major Cities in Japan: Which One Should Top Your Bucket List?
-
All About Kimono: Designs, Patterns, Where (and How) To Buy!
-
10 Tokyo Cultural Experiences to Get to Know Japan First-Hand
-
(Event Report) Spark New Discoveries in Delicious Hokuriku Regional Cuisine: Meet the Next Generation of Chefs Exploring New Frontiers in Japanese Dining Culture
- #best sushi japan
- #what to do in odaiba
- #what to bring to japan
- #new years in tokyo
- #best ramen japan
- #what to buy in ameyoko
- #japanese nail trends
- #things to do japan
- #onsen tattoo friendly tokyo
- #daiso
- #best coffee japan
- #best japanese soft drinks
- #best yakiniku japan
- #japanese fashion culture
- #japanese convenience store snacks