Jinbei & Samue

About our Jinbei & Samue selection

The Jinbei, sometimes called "Hippari", is a traditional Japanese garment, originally worn by males, but now sometimes worn by women. Originally considered a home-wear the Jinbei became very popular in the hot and wet Japanese summer due to its very light and airy characteristics. The Jinbei is also widely worn during popular festivities such as matsuri (festivals) or hanabi (fireworks). Generally made of linen and / or cotton, it consists of a pair of shorts tied with a cord and a jacket with short sleeves (sleeves are attached using linen thread to let air flow). Although there are many variations, traditionally, Jinbei is colored with a more or less intense blue. Jinbei is worn without a belt.

The Samue is a garment which has many uses. Traditionally worn by monks in Zen Buddhist temples, artists, or doctors, it is also widely worn as home-wear, both at home and inside Ryokan (traditional hotel), or at Onsen (hot springs). It is also found among Shakuhachi (traditional flute) players. In recent years, the wearing of Samue extended outside the home as a particularly comfortable informal clothing. Just like Jinbei, Samue is worn without a belt.