Hachimaki Station
Goshuin
Hachimaki are headbands worn for a variety of reasons, including keeping sweat out of the eyes and to show perseverance and determination. For taiko players, they are a common part of the costuming, both for their practicality in catching sweat and as part of a shared aesthetic that calls back to the many of the pioneering groups in Japan. |
There are different styles of hachimaki, but the one that we are making uses two counter-twisted strips of fabric that, when released, twist together. This is the style of hachimaki used by Bakuhatsu Taiko Dan.
Out of respect and cultural sensitivity, some guests may wonder, “is it okay to wear a hachimaki?” Like anything, context matters. Generally, hachimaki are seen as more utilitarian or aesthetic articles and are not sacred items. For Japanese Americans, like many minorities that have had complicated relationships with state or cultural repression, it may evoke different meanings. Japanese Americans sometimes face erasure of specific American histories through overt Japanopilia, so one tip would be to listen to their personal experiences and not try to enforce a single Japanese standard. |
Often, matching clothing like happi or hachimaki can signify team membership, such as at a school or sporting event. In this case, we invite you to wear the festival colors on your head as a symbol of our connected community and team spirit. |