Life in Fukuoka, Japan: Kimono Day

I was very fortunate to have the opportunity to participate in a kimono day at my community center. Robyn, Gandhali and I went to the community center at 9:00 AM to be dressed in a traditional kimono. Getting dressed in a kimono is a very long process. I do not know how anyone could ever dress themselves in a kimono.

The women and children who were participating were in the same room being dressed, while the men were in another area. As I was standing still while two woman "put me into" my kimono I realized that that must be how the royals must have felt when there were being dressed. It is such a foreign concept for me. I would not like to have someone dress me each day.

Once the kimono was on I headed toward the hair station. We all had our hair put up with flowers or other ornate pieces. The women from the community center were so patient and willing to help us. We wore traditional shoes and had purses to borrow for the day.

After everyone was dressed, hair done and photos taken we headed to the shrine. The shrine was not too far away from the community center. The weather was perfect for our trip to the shrine. Once at the shrine we all washed our hands and then entered the shrine area for our blessing. This was the first time I was ever inside of the shrine. I have seen many from the outside, but I had never ventured inside.

I am not sure what the Shinto person is called (for example a priest), but he had us come inside and then we all sat down. He went over to the drums and played a tune while he either chanted or said a prayer or blessing. Since I do not speak Japanese I do not know what exactly was said. We stood up a few times, bowed, lowered our heads while the blessing took place. He came around and blessed us. He also blessed some of the roasted soy beans for us to take with us and eat. It was a very pleasant experience. It actually made me think about all of the traditions we have in the Catholic church (the standing, sitting and kneeling).

Once the blessing was over we walked back to the community center where we changed into our own clothes. After being dressed so formally it felt awkward being in jeans.

Robyn, Gandhali and I then headed to Il Forno to have lunch. It was such a beautiful day. The sun is shining and it feels like spring is in the air.

Enjoy the photos....