Imagine visiting Japan, falling in love with its culture, and trying on a beautiful kimono during your stay in Kyoto. You take some pictures, smile, and then—suddenly—someone online calls it “cultural appropriation.” But is it really?

The debate around cultural appropriation often comes from Western contexts, especially in the U.S. However, when it comes to Japan and the kimono, things are more nuanced—and surprisingly welcoming.

What Is Cultural Appropriation, and Why Do People Mention It with Kimono?

In Western discussions, cultural appropriation means adopting elements of a marginalized culture in a disrespectful, exploitative, or stereotypical way. It’s usually about a power imbalance. For example, when dominant cultures profit from or mock traditions that were historically oppressed.

Some Western voices, particularly on social media, argue that non-Japanese people wearing kimono—especially during Halloween, cosplay, or tourism—are engaging in cultural appropriation. But this view often ignores what Japanese people themselves actually think.

How Do Japanese People View Foreigners Wearing Kimono?

Surprisingly to some, many Japanese people encourage foreigners to wear kimono. Kimono rental shops across Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka cater specifically to tourists. They’re not only accepted—they’re celebrated. Walking through Gion or Asakusa in a yukata as a visitor is seen as a gesture of interest and respect toward Japanese culture.

In recent interviews and surveys, Japanese respondents frequently expressed positive feelings such as:

  • “I feel happy they’re interested in our culture.”
  • “It looks great on them.”
  • “I’m proud to see our traditional clothing appreciated globally.”

In fact, some kimono shop owners reported that their business would not survive without foreign visitors. Cultural appreciation, not appropriation, is the keyword in their eyes.

Why the Concept of Cultural Appropriation Doesn’t Translate Neatly to Japan

Here’s the twist: the idea of cultural appropriation doesn’t exist in the same way in Japanese thinking.

Japan, historically a homogeneous country, has never been colonized or forcibly stripped of its traditions by outsiders. Therefore, the wounds that give rise to the Western view of cultural appropriation don’t quite exist in Japan. Instead, Japanese culture often welcomes global attention as a form of soft power.

This doesn’t mean everything is fair game. Offensive stereotypes—like mock accents, racist portrayals, or trivializing sacred customs—can upset people. But wearing a kimono respectfully? That’s not seen as problematic.

From a Japanese Perspective: Why the Criticism Feels Misguided

Here’s where things get personal. Many Japanese people online express confusion or even frustration when they see foreigners being criticized by other foreigners for wearing kimono. Some common reactions include:

  • “Who are they to speak for us?”
  • “We don’t feel disrespected—why are you offended for us?”
  • “Kimono is for everyone who appreciates it.”

In Japan, cultural sharing is often viewed as a bridge, not a boundary. The notion that culture must be guarded or kept exclusive is not a widely held belief.

A Global Takeaway: Learn and Respect, Don’t Assume

Cultural exchange is inevitable in our globalized world. But assumptions about offense should not override listening to the voices of the culture in question. In Japan’s case, wearing a kimono is more often a sign of friendship, curiosity, and admiration.

So if you’ve ever hesitated to wear a kimono while visiting Japan, don’t worry—just wear it respectfully, learn a bit about its meaning, and enjoy the moment. Chances are, the locals will be smiling along with you 😊