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Old kimonos connect people. A small, sustainable circle: "Kimono Relay"

  • Writer: Hamanaka Akiko
    Hamanaka Akiko
  • Oct 10
  • 2 min read

Updated: Oct 23

Connecting thoughts from person to person. A gentle recycling project has begun in which kimonos are reborn in new forms. It's called "Kimono Relay." It's a story of how old kimonos are given new life as they are passed from hand to hand.


Antique visiting kimono. Resized.
Kimonos are passed on from person to person.

A relay that began with a single kimono

I received some old kimonos from someone, and I re-tailored one of them and gave it to one of my students.

The student then gave me her old undershirt, saying, "Please use it next time."

The undershirt then went to another student.

As kimonos are passed from hand to hand, they pass on feelings and warmth. This small cycle was the beginning of the "Kimono Relay."


Making the most of what you have, a simple choice

Rather than buying new things, make use of what you have.

Kimono can be repaired, given away, and worn again - this is wisdom that has been cherished by the Japanese since ancient times, and it is also a sustainable value that the world is now seeking.

Kimono Relay does not simply reuse old kimonos, but aims to "circulate culture" by passing on people's thoughts and feelings.

Before → After Breathing new life into the garment by adding length to make it longer and more wearable.



Kimono Relay Activity

This initiative is not just about repairs. Someone's precious fabric becomes a part of someone else's life. That is the true appeal of the Kimono Relay.

I hope that this relay, which started naturally in the classroom, will spread to many more people in the future .


Participation and Inquiries

If you want to make use of your old kimono or pass on your kimono to the next generation, please feel free to contact us. → https://www.passioneer.net/


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