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A hachimaki (鉢巻) (headband, lit. "helmet-scarf") is a type of Japanese headband, usually made of red or white cloth, typically featuring a design of kanji at the front.

History

The origin of the hachimaki is uncertain, but the most common theory states that they originated as headbands used by samurai, worn underneath the kabuto to protect the wearer from cuts and to absorb sweat. Inspired by samurai, kamikaze pilots in World War II wore hachimaki while flying to their deaths.

In modern Japan, hachimaki are often emblazoned with slogans and red circles reminiscent of the flag of Japan. They serve the function of absorbing sweat during physical activity, so they are often worn by sportspeople. Hachimaki may be worn to showcase Japanese nationalism or sporting pride. They are also associated with the Bōsōzoku subculture in Japan. In Western popular culture, hachimaki are stereotypically associated with martial artists.

See also

• Good Luck Flag – Traditional gift for Japanese servicemen
• Kerchief – Cloth tied around the head or neck; bandana
• Senninbari – Belt given to Japanese men going to war as an amulet
• Tenugui – Traditional Japanese multi-purpose cloth

References

1. ^ "Hachimaki - Japanese Headbands". DuncanSensei Japanese. 2015-03-24. Retrieved 2024-09-09.
2. ^ "Hachimaki – the Japanese Headband that gives you Energy - Japan Daily". 2024-05-30. Retrieved 2024-09-09.
3. "Investigating Okinawa: The Story Behind A Kamikaze Pilot's Scarf". public2.nhhcaws.local. Retrieved 2024-09-09.

External links

• Media related to Hachimaki at Wikimedia Commons

v t e Japanese clothing
List of items traditionally worn in Japan
Traditional	Chihaya Fundoshi Furisode Hanten Hakama Haori Happi Jinbei Jōe Jūnihitoe Keikogi Kosode Kimono Kyahan Mawashi Mino Nemaki Samue Shitagi Sokutai Uwagi Yukata
Headgear	Benkan Hachimaki Kanmuri Kanzashi Kasa Raikan Shaguma Tenugui Tokin Tsunokakushi
Belt / sash	Obi Uwa-obi Tasuki
Footwear	Geta Jika-tabi Okobo Tabi Uwabaki Waraji Zōri

• Japanese headgear
• Kamikaze
• Samurai clothing
• World War II military equipment of Japan