Page 32 - WDT Winter 2018 japan

Japanese formality extends to dress, especially in the big cit- Kimono stores were as common as ice cream shops. High-
ies. We saw more black-suited men here than in any place in re- end custom made kimono in major retail stores and fashion-
cent memory, a contrast with the youthful fashionistas of both able boutiques command jaw-dropping five-figure prices.
sexes with their exuberant trendy looks. We didn’t think that the Visitors to Japan, both men, and women, often rent kimonos,
women would be wearing classic kimonos, but there were a lot dressing up as they visit the temples and shrines throughout
of kimonos to be seen everywhere we traveled in Japan. They the country. A high percentage of the kimono-clad young
are a trademark of proud traditions, still donned for significant women we saw were from China, constantly posing to take
family and cultural events, including many weddings. selfies with their smartphones.

32 WDT MAGAZINE WINTER 2018