Japanese traditional dress Kimono and the about 4.5 meter long belt tied in a unique way is fascinating sight to an outsider. Though, kimonos are now worn only for formal occasions, the history of wearing kimonos can be traced back to 1300 years. Even to the Japanese people, wearing a kimono is very special. The obi is the belt of the kimono and is an important accessory to the kimono. The style and colour of the kimonos and the accompanying obi varies with the age and marital status of the wearer.

On 17th October, the Minami Circle members had the opportunity to learn more about this traditional dress at an OBI WORSHOP organised by the MC Oct.Group at Minatomirai Clean Center.

The day was bright and sunny adding to the enthusiasm of 66 members (foreigners 36. Japanese 30), who had gathered (in their yukatas) to learn wearing an obi. The members were honoured by learning about the Kimono and Obi from Watanabe Chie sensei and her team of seven experts from the Fukushoku Bunka Kenkyukai Kimono school.

Ten members who volunteered to be models were dressed in gorgeous kimonos in vibrant colours and each of them had their obi tied in a different style by the experts. It took about 30-40 minutes to get fully dressed in the kimono. Wearing these kimonos was like wearing a piece of history.

At the workshop, Watanabe Chie sensei explained the history of the tradition of wearing a kimono and the meaning of the variety of Obis; post box ( BUNKO), arrow head ( YABANE), OTAIKO.... The experts demonstrated tying these different styles with amazing dexterity and skill.

The members were then taught the simple bow design. Dressed in colourful yukatas, everyone tried their hand at tying an obi. Though most of us did not do a great job and landed up in funny shapes, the workshop was fun and everyone enjoyed every moment of this learning exercise.

ARIGATO GOZAIMASHITA, WATANABE SENSEI AND HER TEAM FOR THIS UNFORGETTABLE JAPANESE EXPERIENCE. Report: Anju.B pictures: A.Motegi

Workshop OBI Picture Album

Friday, October 17, 2008































Information



Let's learn together :

The history of Obi, Variety of Obi, Obi Styles, How to tie an Obi

This is a great opportunity to actually practice tying a Japanese Obi Sash one step at a time. Professional Kimono fitting specialists of Bukushoku Bunka Kenkyukai will assist us. Also you can get lots of information on Japanese Obi and enjoy.

Don't miss it, everyone!

Date: October 17th ' 08 ( Friday )
Time: 10:15-13:00 (Reception 9:45-)
Place: Yokohama-shi Shimin-katsudo Shien Center (Clean Center),4F (Phone: 045-223-2666)

Fee: Member \500 (Non-member \1200)

Number limit: 60 persons (First come, first serve basis. Members have priority)

Reservation: From September 26 to October 10.
Payment can be made at the Welcome Party (9/26), after that, you can pay to the members in charge.
Your reservation is confirmed on the receipt of payment.

Contact: Misako Plant ( in English ) Noriko Uehara ( in Japanese )

Cancellation: No refund after October 10

Please bring your own cup for refreshment.

Her OBI is nice!! Taken at the June meeting "Ultimate Travel Experiences" YCAC on June 6th - Friday 2008

We have been enjoying our monthly meetings in many public facilities around Yokohama. It may be useful to check the rules of the facilities as we’re successfully expanding. Let’s enjoy our activities with a lot more friends! October Meeting “Workshop OBI” will be at:

Yokohama Citizens Empowerment Center
Yokohama-shi Shimin-katsudo Shien Center (Clean Center)
at Minato-Mirai, Sakuragi-cho

1. Anyone can use the open space on the 4th and the 5th floor. In the open space, users should not disturb other users. One group cannot occupy the whole space.

2. Taking light meals and drinks is allowed on the 4th and the 5th floor.

3. Alcoholic liquors and smoking are forbidden in the building.

4. Users have to take their litter away with them.

Minami Circle