The kimono is one of Japan’s most iconic symbols, its colors and designs exemplifying Japanese cultural sensibilities and aesthetics. Lesser known, however, is that, the kimono originated as an undergarment. The predecessor to today’s kimono is a robe called the kosode (literally, “small sleeve openings”). The kosode first came into its own as an outer robe in medieval Japan during the Muromachi period (1392–1573). It was decorated accordingly with lavish dyed, embroidered, and gold or silver patterns.
This exhibition traces the kimono from its inception some eight hundred years ago to its role today as a symbol of Japanese culture with increasing sway on the contemporary fashion scene. Featuring some of the finest extant textiles, paintings, prints and other artworks drawn from collections in Japan and around the world, KIMONO: Fashioning Identities promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to consider the past, present, and future of this quintessential Japanese garment.
About the exhibition
Period: June 30 (Tue) – August 23, 2020 (Sun)
Venue: Heiseikan, Tokyo National Museum (Ueno Park)
Hours: 9:30am–6pm *The regular exhibitions are open untill 5pm. Closed on Mondays (Except for August 10) , August 11. Admission:
Adults: 1700 yen/ University students: 1200 yen/ High school students: 900 yen/ Junior high school students and under: Free Access:
10 minutes’ walk from JR Ueno Station (Park exit) and Uguisudani Station
15 minutes’ walk from Keisei Ueno Station, Tokyo Metro Ueno Station and Tokyo Metro Nezu Station General Inquiries:
03-5777-8600 (Hello Dial)
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