Textiles of Battle: A Look at Japanese Wartime Propaganda Kimono

Were Japan’s World War II-era kimonos depicting images of war a propaganda tool — or a natural outpouring of support?

By J. “Rin” Shiroshita

When one thinks of kimono patterns, one perhaps thinks of intricate and elegant designs depicting elegant flowers, gorgeous scenery, and auspicious animals such as cranes. But as Japan modernized during the Meiji era and textile production advanced, so did the need for patterns to reflect the times and enchant buyers.

Out of this consumer-driven need came a type of kimono that to this day is seldom found, and not very often talked about.

Table Of Contents

1. War pattern kimono
2. Depictions of victory
3. Gender differences
4. Government propaganda — or willing support?
5. Conclusion
6. What to read next

War pattern kimono

Called 戦争柄 (sensougara; war patterns) or 面白い柄 (omoshiroigara; interesting patterns), these particular kimono patterns feature war scenes that were produced in Japan over a period of about 50 years.