A Japanese woman wears a traditional kimono.

The kimono is the traditional clothing of Japan. Kimono styles have changed significantly from one period of history to another, with many different types of kimonos worn by men, women and children in Japan today. The cut, color, fabric and decorations of a kimono may vary according to the sex, age and marital status of the wearer, the season of the year and the occasion for which the kimono is worn.

Today, a Japanese woman usually owns only one kimono, which she wears for her coming of age ceremony on her 20th birthday. For weddings, a complete bridal kimono and accompanying apparel are usually rented.

(CRI April 10, 2007)