From Self-Difence Force Officer To Kimono Merchant

 

Work that will benefit Japan

A kimono merchant whit a unique background from the National Defence Academy and the Maritime Self-Defence Force has developed a new low-cost, easy-to-wear kimono called "Play KIMONO".

The crowdfunding campaign launched at the end of August raised 3.71 million yen, more than 12 times the target of 300,000 yen, in 22 days.

"I want to do work that is useful for Japan. Culture is a lubricant for diplomacy."

The person is Naoki Hara, 42, representative of Kyo Goguku Futaya.
He travelled around other countries in uniform while serving in the Maritime Self-Defence Force, and decided that he wanted to wear a kimono that symbolised Japan, and established Futaya, a high-end kimono company, in 2014 in an attempt to preserve Japanese culture.

Play KIMONO is made of synthetic fibres and was conceived together with KAJIF, a Hokuriku-based synthetic fibre manufacturer, out of a desire to remove the hurdles associated with kimonos, such as their high price, dressing and the difficulty of cleaning.

The crowdfunding campaign, which included a men's kimono (115,000 yen), attracted support far exceeding the target amount, thanks to the image of a comfortable, high-end kimono in terms of appearance. General sales are scheduled for next spring.

He says: "I hope to improve the comfort of kimonos and gradually change the customs and traditions that have been annoying everyone."