Learn About Kawachinagano
Known for its beautiful temples and shrines, Kawachinagano is a quiet suburban community of about 100,000 people in Osaka Prefecture, Japan. In 1989, Kawachinagano established a sister-city relationship with Carmel, Indiana, in an agreement that promotes cultural and educational exchanges between the two cities. The sister-city bond between Kawachinagano and Carmel has led to many lifelong friendships and a better understanding between residents of Japan and the United States.
More About the Items in the Exhibit
Okedo is a type of round drum commonly used in the Sansa Odori festival in northern Japan. More than 10,000 taiko drummers and dancers participate in the Sansa Odori festival, and it is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest taiko drum festival in the world.
A yukata is an unlined cotton summer kimono worn in casual settings such as summer festivals and nearby bathhouses. Originally worn as bathrobes, their modern use is much broader; they are a common sight in Japan during summer.
A jinbei is traditional Japanese clothing worn mainly by men and children during summer as loungewear. It consists of a kimono-style top and loose short pants.
Wagasa are Japanese umbrellas made with bamboo and paper. They arrived in Japan in the 10th century from China and were used only by elite feudal lords. Japanese artisans gradually tweaked the umbrellas so that they were waterproof and foldable. They were commonly used before the modern ages but now are mostly ceremonial.
The paper kite (tako) and 3D paper doll (washi ningyo) displayed are both made by Kawachinagano artists. Kites were flown to appease the wishes of the gods and to pray for successful harvests and healthy children, purposes for which they continue to be used today. Washi ningyo have been favored by girls in Japan since the early 1500s.
Furoshiki is a square-shaped Japanese traditional wrapping cloth that is eco-friendly and mostly used for wrapping gifts and carrying goods, along with other decorative uses. The one displayed depicts Kawachinagano city sites.
