Kanzashi – Beautiful Japanese Ornaments

Kanzashi (簪) are hair ornaments, usually worn by women, with a rich history and tradition in Japan. In recent years they have gained popularity again and are worn by young girls in Japan.

It all started in the Jomon period, between 1,400 and 300 BC, when it was believed that some of these ornaments had mysterious powers. If placed in the hair, these ornaments would be able to expel evil spirits.

Much later, during the Edo period (1600 to 1868), with the growing popularity of more elaborate hairstyles, Kanzashi came to be considered high fashion, and were part of the “basic” beauty accessory for all ladies.

As can be seen in Ukiyo-e portraits, it is very common to see kanzashi decorating women’s hairstyles during the edo period.

The Kanzashi can be divided into groups depending on which part of the hair they are placed on.

1.”Maesashi”: Kanzashi that is placed between both sides of the bangs
2.”Magesashi”: Kanzashi that is placed at the base of the bun in front.
3.”Tatesashi”: Kanzashi that is placed vertically on the sides (“sideburns” area)
4.”Ushirosashi”: Kanzashi that is placed at the back in order to maintain the stability of the hairstyle.

Currently, with the development of Kanzashi and technology, it is more common to classify them by the material used. These are the most common:

Tsumami Kanzashi

Made of silk, it is the most common of all. It is made by folding square pieces of silk into triangles, to later be combined with other colors.

Hana Kanzashi

Mainly made in Kyoto and worn by “Maiko” (apprentice geisha). The design theme changes every month. For January they carry a combination of pine (matsu), bamboo (take) and plum blossoms (ume); for April they carry cherry blossoms (sakura) combined with butterflies and shoots. And so it changes every month.

Kazari Kanzashi

Made of metals (gold, silver, etc.) They are not as common, but professional craftsmen can still be found in Tokyo, near Asakusa. The following ones were made by Takayuki Miura.

Tama kanzashi

The simplest in design, which can be comfortably worn in daily life. It is a small sphere inserted into a thin stick. Simple but beautiful!

The Tama Kanzashi are always adorned with the maki-e technique, where gold and silver are accompanied by a natural urushi-based lacquer, following very elegant and traditional beautiful designs.

Currently, it is common to see them in the coming-of-age ceremony in Japan, the girls wear them highlighting the designs of their kimono. In the following video you can see a bit about how to make a kanzashi.