Instructions for a Child-Size Yukata

Yukata are still worn today at Japanese-style public baths.

Yukata are lightweight, cotton versions of the famous Japanese kimono. The name means roughly "bath garment," and guests at Japanese bathhouses traditionally wear yukata. Thanks to their cool and comfortable nature, yukata are a popular summer alternative to kimono, and even today many young Japanese wear yukata at summer festivals. Young children wear brightly colored yukata with intricate patterns at school festivals and during the shichi-go-san festival, a day celebrating children 3, 5 and 7 years of age. Unlike women's yukata, children's yukata come in different sizes and are not folded at the waist.

Things You'll Need

• Yukata
• Koshihimo belt
• Obi belt

Instructions

1. Slip the yukata on to the child, making sure the hem at the bottom is at about ankle height.

2. Bring the right side of the yukata over the body, then bring the left side on top of the right. (Never fold a yukata or kimono right side over left --- this is reserved for the robes of the dead at funeral ceremonies.)

3. Tie the yukata securely around the waist with the plain koshihimo belt. This secures the yukata ready for tying the obi. Tuck the ends of the koshihimo into the yukata.

4. Tie the obi belt over the yukata so that it completely covers the koshihimo belt.

References

• Obon Overview: Yukata
• Shimazakura: How To Wear Yukata
• Kimono Place: Children's Kimono