| Japanese color name | Yellowish-brown |
|---|---|
| reading | kihadairo |
| HEX | #FCF16E |
| RGB | 252, 241, 110 |
What is the color "Kihagi-iro"? Origin and etymology
The term "Kihada-iro" refers to a vibrant yellow color obtained by deciduously boiling the yellow inner bark of the Phellodendron amurense tree, a deciduous tree belonging to the citrus family. It is said to have been named after the vivid yellow color of the inner bark that is revealed when the bark of the Phellodendron amurense tree is peeled off. This inner bark is also known as the herbal medicine "Oubaku" and contains berberine, a component with a strong bitter taste and antibacterial properties.
Therefore, it has a long history of being widely used not only as a dye, but also for medicinal purposes, insect repellent, and preservative.
Historical background of the yellow-green color
Dyeing with yellow bark is one of the oldest dyeing techniques in Japan, and it is known to have been practiced as early as the Nara period. Many pieces of paper and cloth dyed with yellow bark are preserved among the treasures of the Shōsōin, demonstrating the high level of skill at the time. Its insect-repellent properties were particularly valued, and it was widely used to dye paper used to store precious scriptures and official documents.
During the Heian period, it is said that yellow sedge was used as an underdye when dyeing the robes worn by the emperor in "ouni" (yellowish-orange) for important ceremonies. Ouni was the foremost of the "forbidden colors," which only the emperor was permitted to wear, and yellow sedge played an important role in supporting this noble color. In the Edo period, the cheaper turmeric dye became popular, but yellow sedge dye continued to be used for samurai clothing and other items due to its durability.
Related literature, waka poetry, and seasonal words
The vibrant yellow-green color has also added color to literary works. In the "Wakamurasaki" chapter of "The Tale of Genji," it is described that Hikaru Genji wore a "yellow-green robe" when he visited Kitayama for treatment of his illness. This suggests that this color was incorporated into the everyday attire of the aristocracy at the time. Furthermore, it has deep ties to Buddhism, and its presence can be seen indirectly in the world of Buddhist literature and tales as the color used to dye the paper of Buddhist scriptures.
Color scheme preview
This is to check the readability of the text when this color is used as the background.
Yellow-green color scheme proposal
Lapis Lazuli (#1F4788)
The vivid yellow-green and the deep, clear lapis lazuli are close to complementary colors, creating a strong contrast. They enhance each other's beauty, resulting in a luxurious and striking combination. This noble color scheme is also seen in Buddhist art.
Tokiwa color (#007B43)
The combination of vibrant yellow and deep, calming evergreen, reminiscent of evergreen leaves, creates a color scheme that evokes the vitality of nature. The colors complement each other, giving an impression that is both youthful and stable.
Dark brown (#66382A)
Combining a bright yellow-green with a deep, muted dark brown creates a warm and calming harmony. This combination of earth tones, reminiscent of the land and trees, results in a color scheme that is both reassuring and elegant.
Practical Scenes
In the world of kimono, the vibrant yellow-yellow color is effectively used in obi sashes, accessories, and layering of colors. It can be seen particularly in youthful spring attire and in stylish coordinations that make good use of the contrast with other colors. Furthermore, due to its insect-repellent properties, it is said that it was once used for practical purposes such as clothing linings.
In interior design, incorporating yellow-green into fabrics such as cushion covers and curtains creates a bright and cheerful atmosphere throughout the space. It pairs exceptionally well with wooden furniture, creating a natural and warm ambiance. Using this color as an accent wall is also a modern and striking way to incorporate it.
In the fields of web design and graphic design, the high brightness and saturation of yellow-green make it a striking accent color. Using it in buttons, banners, and headings can attract the user's attention and create a positive and energetic impression.