HANTEN Kimono - Festival Jacket

This vintage hanten jacket captures the vibrant spirit and proud traditions of Japan’s festival culture. Worn during matsuri (festivals) by community groups, shop owners, or performance teams, the hanten is both a symbol of unity and a practical garment for lively celebrations.

Crafted from sturdy cotton, this piece features a striking abstract crosshatch pattern in deep indigo against an unbleached background. The front is adorned with bold vertical panels, including two crest-like emblems (mon), lending it an air of group identity. On the back, a large, hand-stenciled kanji takes center stage—an unmistakable badge of the wearer’s team or affiliation.

Historically, hanten were worn as work jackets in the Edo period (1603–1868) and evolved into cultural uniforms for festivals, processions, and merchant houses. Their bold designs ensured visibility in bustling crowds, while the cotton fabric provided comfort and ease of movement.

Today, vintage hanten like this are treasured for their graphic beauty, historical resonance, and versatility—they can be displayed as art, worn as a statement piece, or collected as part of Japan’s rich textile heritage.

Details:

Era: Mid-20th century (Showa period)

Material: Cotton

Techniques: Traditional stencil dyeing (katazome), hand-sewing

Features: Large kanji on back, crest emblems on front, bold crosshatch pattern

Condition: Vintage, excellent for its age