Happi: Essential Jackets for Japanese Festivals

Guideto Japan

Culturehappijackets that unite the participants.

A Sense of Festive Camaraderie

Happi are traditional Japanese jackets that are especially associated with festivals, where they are commonly worn by organizers and participants. These loose-fitting jackets typically come in bold colors and designs, and often have a prominent kanji displayed, such as 祭 (matsuri), meaning “festival.” It heightens the sense of camaraderie when everyone sports the same jackets as they lug a portable shrine or perform a dance.

The jackets derive from clothing originally worn by servants, craftsmen, and other workers during the Edo period (1603–1868).

(Originally written in English. Banner image © Pixta.)