Introduction
When people think of the kimono, they often imagine colorful fabrics worn during festivals, weddings, or photo sessions in Kyoto. However, the kimono also plays a solemn and important role in Japanese funeral rituals. Just as bright kimonos highlight moments of joy, the mourning kimono expresses respect, spirituality, and humility in moments of loss.
Traditional black funeral kimono (mofuku) showcasing the elegant simplicity of Japanese mourning attire
In this article, we will explore the history, meaning, and etiquette of wearing a kimono in Japanese funerals. We will also look at how traditions in Kyoto—one of Japan's cultural capitals—preserve these practices, and how modern life is reshaping them.
If you are planning to experience the cultural depth of Kyoto through a kimono, you can also explore services like Mimosa Kimono Rental, which provides elegant kimono experiences in the heart of Japan's ancient capital.
The Symbolism of the Funeral Kimono
Unlike celebratory kimonos, which often feature vibrant patterns and seasonal motifs, funeral kimonos are designed to convey purity, humility, and respect for the deceased.
Traditional Japanese funeral ceremony showing the respectful use of mourning kimono in Buddhist rituals
Color: The most recognizable element is the black mourning kimono (kuro-montsuki). For women, it is paired with a black obi and minimal accessories. Men also wear black kimono with hakama trousers.
Family Crests: Traditional mourning kimonos often feature five family crests (kamon) in white, symbolizing the formality of the attire.
White family crests (kamon) on black kimono fabric, representing formal mourning attire
Simplicity: Decorative patterns, embroidery, or bold designs are avoided, as simplicity reflects sincerity.
Historical Origins of Funeral Attire
The tradition of wearing a specific kimono for funerals goes back centuries, deeply rooted in Buddhism and Shinto customs. In earlier times, regional differences shaped the colors and designs. For example:
Historic Kyoto temple from the Heian period, where funeral kimono traditions first developed
In Heian-era Kyoto (794–1185), white was once the color of mourning, reflecting purity.
Over time, black became standard, influenced by Confucian values and imported Chinese traditions.
By the Edo period (1603–1868), the black kimono with family crests was firmly established as the proper attire for funerals.
Women's Funeral Kimono (Mofuku)
Women traditionally wear mofuku (mourning kimono), which includes:
Women wearing complete mofuku attire, showing the proper elements of traditional mourning dress
- Black silk kimono with five white crests.
- Black obi (sash) with no decoration.
- White under-kimono (nagajuban) as an inner layer.
- Black tabi socks and black zori sandals.
The elegance of this attire lies in its restraint. Women avoid makeup, hair ornaments, or jewelry, except for a string of white pearls, considered acceptable for mourning.
Men's Funeral Kimono
Men wear a similar but slightly different version of the mourning kimono:
Men's formal funeral kimono with montsuki haori and hakama, representing traditional masculine mourning attire
- Black kimono with crests.
- Montsuki haori (jacket).
- Black or gray hakama trousers.
- White tabi and black zori.
In some modern funerals, men may also wear Western black suits, but the kimono remains an option in more traditional or formal settings, especially in Kyoto.
The Role of Kyoto in Preserving Rituals
Kyoto, with its deep ties to Japanese tradition, plays an important role in preserving funeral kimono customs.
- Tailors in Kyoto continue to craft formal mofuku kimonos, ensuring quality and authenticity.
- Buddhist temples in the city often require formal attire during ceremonies, reinforcing the use of mourning kimono.
- Kimono rental shops, while usually focused on festive occasions, sometimes offer guidance or exhibitions about the cultural meaning of mourning kimonos.
Modern Kyoto kimono rental shop preserving traditional Japanese cultural practices
For visitors, wearing a kimono in Kyoto—even for sightseeing—offers a connection to the city's layered history, where joy and solemnity are both honored.
Modern Adaptations
In today's Japan, many people opt for Western-style black suits at funerals. However, some families still prefer the kimono, especially among older generations or in rural areas. Kyoto, being a cultural hub, sees more frequent use of traditional attire.
Modern adaptations include:
- Renting rather than owning a mourning kimono.
- Using simpler fabrics and machine-made crests for affordability.
- Blending traditions—some attendees wear suits, while close relatives may wear kimonos.
Etiquette When Wearing a Funeral Kimono
If you are ever invited to a Japanese funeral and plan to wear a kimono, remember these key points:
- Avoid bright colors or patterns.
- Coordinate properly—a black kimono must be paired with black obi, zori, and accessories.
- Minimal accessories—avoid flashy items, only white pearls or subdued items are allowed.
- Hair and makeup—should be simple, natural, and respectful.
The Emotional Meaning Behind the Kimono
The funeral kimono is not just clothing; it carries emotional weight. For many Japanese people, especially in Kyoto, wearing it is a final gesture of respect and connection to the deceased. The simplicity of the kimono mirrors the Buddhist concept of impermanence—life and death as natural parts of existence.
Experiencing Kimono Culture in Kyoto
While most travelers will not participate in Japanese funerals, understanding the funeral kimono deepens appreciation for the garment's versatility.
If you are visiting Kyoto, you can experience the beauty of the kimono yourself. Shops like Mimosa Kimono Rental provide opportunities to wear kimonos for strolling through historic districts like Gion or visiting temples. By doing so, you connect not only with joy and celebration but also with the garment's role in life's most solemn moments.