Hachimaki – Origin and meaning – JAPAN

The hachimaki has become well known in the West, just seeing it is associated with Japan.

A hachimaki (鉢巻) is a ribbon, usually made of white cloth with a red circle in the center and one or two kanji written in black, that the Japanese wear on their heads as a symbol of effort, perseverance and perseverance. The word hachi means “forehead” and maki means “ribbon”.

Hachimaki is usually made from a long strip of white cotton cloth decorated with inspirational Japanese words written in a calligraphic style.

It was used by the samurai under their helmet or “kabuto” and by the Japanese pilots in the Second World War to, according to them, feel protected and ward off evil spirits to see themselves and with the feeling of courage to be able to fulfill their missions with confidence. success.

But it is not only used by the military, but also by employees, students and anyone who sets a goal, since being so present in the body, since it is worn on the head, it is like a reminder to keep striving and achieve goals such as completing a project, preparing for an exam, etc.

While anything can be written or drawn on a hachimaki , there are some typical words or designs that are more commonly associated with them. It is usually focused on the effort shown by the wearer, or perhaps some sort of nationalistic or sporting pride, depending on the event you may be attending. For example, when Japan plays in a sport, fans and supporters usually wear a hachimaki where “日本” is written, which would mean “up Japan”