“Aiai-gasa” – The symbol of lovers

You have probably seen in anime or manga the symbol of “Aiai-gasa” (相合い傘) and it is the Western equivalent of writing a heart with the names of lovers inside it. “Aiai-gasa” comes from the kanji相合い(aiai) which means to do something together and傘(kasa) which means umbrella . What does this mean? Well, let’s explain it!

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In Japan it is very common, especially at certain times of the year, for it to suddenly start to rain. Sometimes these rains are temporary, a few drops fall in a matter of minutes, but others are longer lasting and are the ones that seriously wet you. And there is never a lack of the one who forgot to check the weather forecast that day and also forget the umbrella at home.

There are many romantic scenes in movies, anime and manga in which this situation occurs: the girl or boy who offers the other to share his/her umbrella, is interested in him/her and they take advantage of this little moment under the pretext that they should be as close together as possible under the umbrella so as not to get wet.

It is here where the “Aiai-gasa” makes its presence known as a symbol that represents the moment of being together in the rain using the same umbrella. Drawing an “Aiai-gauze” and writing your name along with the name of the person you are interested in under the umbrella will give you good luck so that your love is reciprocated. Therefore, to draw an “Aiai-gauze” and your wish is fulfilled, you must follow the steps to the letter.

It is not known since when this “Aiai-gasa” symbol began to be used, although there is a record around the Edo period (1603 to 1868). An “Aiai-gasa” can be found in one of the drawings by the artist Hokusai.

Don’t forget to follow all the steps correctly to draw your “Aiai-gauze” and may your love be reciprocated!