While some believe that parasols are for blocking the sun and umbrellas are for protecting from the rain, the truth is that parasols are for women and umbrellas are unisex. In Japanese, there is no distinction between parasol and umbrella; it is called kasa [傘].
In Japan, umbrellas have many more uses than simply protecting from rain and sun. We know that Japan is famous for its numerous inventions and variations of things. In this article, we will see some umbrellas and parasols that you had no idea existed, but only exist in Japan.
It is interesting to highlight that the word kasa is also written (笠) and refers to ancient hats that have a similarity to modern umbrellas. We can start by mentioning a type of umbrella that I saw a lot while I was in Japan during the summer.
Transparent umbrellas were so easy to find; I even bought one, but unfortunately, I left it in Japan T.T This really serves to protect only from the rain, but its material was good and durable.
Wagasa – Traditional Japanese Parasol
Let’s start by talking about the traditional Japanese parasol – wagasa! It is traditionally made with bamboo ribs and washi (Japanese paper). It came from China and was a sacred instrument used in Buddhist ceremonies.
They entered Japan in the Heian period (794-1185) and became popular in the Edo period. They were often associated with geishas, and nowadays they are used on special occasions.
The wagasa have different traits, colors, designs, and symbols. Purple parasols are often used by geishas and symbolize longevity. Dancers usually wear pink, middle-aged people green or red, the elderly dark blue, and white are used in funerals.
Currently, traditional umbrellas from Japan are often used in events, tea ceremonies, weddings, festivals, and traditional dances. Nowadays, wagasa is seen as a work of art and culture.
Japanese Creativity in Umbrellas
We know that Japan loves to invent things, so we can expect various umbrellas with different prints. Here are some themed and special umbrellas that have gone beyond the limit. Not all of them on this list are easy to find, much less popular.
Some umbrellas have hidden designs that only appear with contact with water. Others have a visor to completely cover the head while still being able to see. There are even umbrellas that open and close in the opposite way.
The Japanese have tried to make life easier for people by creating umbrellas that you can tie to your arms without needing to hold them. They have also created a type of umbrella hat and even a hat that allows you to sit on it like a chair.
- Samurai Umbrella – They even invented a regular umbrella that resembles a katana;
- Kokeshi Umbrella – The name is self-explanatory; it has a kokeshi on its handle;
- Vegetabrella – This one went beyond the limit and turned into a salad;
Perverted Umbrellas – A project called The Million Girls, aimed at promoting the concept of bizarre Japan, created an umbrella called Upskirt Umbrella. On its lower part, you find the view of the legs and the underwear of a Japanese schoolgirl in anime.
Have you ever encountered someone using these bizarre umbrellas? Do you have the courage to buy one of these parasols? We appreciate your comment and sharing. I hope you enjoyed it; don’t forget to read our article about aiaigasa.
Leave a Reply