How to Wear a Yukata with Ties
When staying at a traditional Japanese inn or hotel, a yukata is often provided as loungewear. However, many people may wonder, “How do I wear this?” or “What is this tie for?” This article explains how to wear a yukata, especially the kind with ties often found in children’s yukata.
To begin with, what is a Yukata?
Yukata originated as garments worn by nobles when entering steam baths to avoid burns from the steam. Later, due to their breathability, they became garments worn after bathing and eventually became sleepwear. As time passed, yukata evolved into outdoor wear. Nowadays, although fewer people wear yukata as everyday clothing, they remain popular as stylish attire for summer events such as fireworks displays and summer festivals.
Is a Yukata Different from a Kimono?
While yukata were originally worn during bathing, kimono were traditionally worn for outings. Even though yukata are now worn as outdoor wear, there are still occasions where yukata might not be chosen due to their less formal nature. For example, it is not appropriate to wear a yukata to formal events like weddings, entrance ceremonies, or graduation ceremonies.
Is It Okay to Walk Around the Inn or Hotel in a Yukata?
Yes, it’s perfectly fine. Wearing a yukata to visit the hot springs or go to meals within the inn or hotel is not considered bad manners. However, if the inn or hotel provides specific instructions, please follow them.
When There Is No Yukata in Your Room
If you can’t find a yukata in your room, they are often stored on the lower shelf of the closet.
Some inns or hotels place yukata in the lobby. Be sure to check the size before taking one.
How to Wear a Yukata
Here, I will introduce how to wear a yukata with ties. This type of yukata is often found in children’s yukata and can be confusing with its ties, making you wonder, “What is this tie for?” or “How do we wear it?” However, since it is less likely to come undone than a regular yukata fastened with only an obi, this type is often used for children’s yukata.
Steps to Wear a Yukata 1
1. Put your arms through the sleeves of the yukata.
My daughter never stays still at this point…
2. First, hold the right side of the yukata against your body, and tie the tie attached to the edge of the right to the tie attached to the left which seam of the left side.
Note: The left side one is not the tie attached to the edge of the left.
In the image, the tie is tied using the traditional Japanese “butterfly knot.” For reference, here’s how to tie a butterfly knot (also called a bow knot). If you want to skip this part, go to “Steps to Wear a Yukata 2”.
How to Tie a Butterfly Knot
1. Place the left tie over the right tie.
2. Through the left tie under the right tie and pull it up.
3. Ensure the left tie is pointing downward and the right tie is pointing upward.
4. Hold both ends of the ties and pull them to tighten the knot.
5. Create a loop with the left tie.
6. Fold the loop towards the center.
7. Lower the right tie straight down and cover the loop you created.
8. Pass the right tie through the gap between the knot and the loop (as shown in the image where the left index finger is).
9. Pull both loops horizontally at the same time.
10. Done.
11. To undo, pull the ties that are not in loops simultaneously, and the knot will unravel to step 3.
Steps to Wear a Yukata 2
3. Overlap the left side on the right side.
4. Tie the tie attached to the edge of the left side to the tie attached to the right which seam of the right side.
How to Wear Tabi Socks
In inns or hotels with yukata, you may find split-toe socks provided. These are called “tabi socks”, a modern adaptation of traditional Japanese socks “ tabi”.
Wear them by separating your big toe from the other four toes, as shown in the image.
Tips
While yukata with ties are less likely to come undone, active children may still find them loosening. Therefore, for children, it’s recommended to have them wear shorts underneath. Also, make sure to tie the ties securely, whether using a butterfly knot or another method that works for you.
That said, my daughter’s yukata seems to come undone so much. This is what happens when you tie it too loosely..
Conclusion
Yukata may take a bit more effort to wear, but they significantly enhance the feeling of being on a trip. Why don’t you master how to dress your child in a yukata and enjoy staying at a traditional inn or hotel as a family.
