| Japanese color name | Kasuga |
|---|---|
| reading | kasuga |
| season | 春 |
| Color of the table | Beni (beni) |
| Back color | Green (midori) |
What is Kasuga? Origin and etymology
"Kasuga" is a combination of colors that reflects the scenery of spring. Its name is thought to originate from the Kasuga Grand Shrine in Yamato Province (present-day Nara Prefecture) and the surrounding Kasugano area. The red on the outside is said to represent the color of the wisteria flower, which is also the crest of the Kasuga Grand Shrine, or the mountain cherry blossoms illuminated by the spring sunshine, while the green on the inside is said to represent the young grass and wisteria leaves sprouting in Kasugano.
This vibrant contrast of colors captures and expresses the beauty of the sacred space of spring, brimming with vitality, through the garments themselves.
This color scheme is interpreted not merely as a representation of the season, but also as embodying the faith and respect for Kasuga Taisha, the tutelary shrine of the Fujiwara clan. The combination of red and green, which are close to complementary colors, makes each color stand out, leaving a strong impression on the viewer. Heian aristocrats skillfully incorporated such colors from the natural world, expressing their education and aesthetic sense through their attire. Kasuga is one of the color schemes that symbolizes Japan's unique sense of color, a fusion of natural beauty and faith.
Historical background of Kasuga
The concept of layered color combinations (kasane no irome) is a refined aesthetic of color that developed among the aristocracy as the Heian period's national culture matured. They were keenly aware of the changing seasons and expressed the colors of natural landscapes and flowers through the color combinations of the outer and inner layers of their clothing and layering, incorporating a sense of the seasons into their lives. The "Kasuga" color combination is thought to have originated within this culture. Although the exact date of its establishment is uncertain, many color combinations were established by the mid-Heian period.
It is presumed that the "Kasuga" color scheme was worn for pilgrimages to Kasuga Taisha Shrine (Kasuga-mode) and for court ceremonies and banquets held during the spring season. For the Fujiwara clan in particular, this color scheme, associated with Kasuga Taisha Shrine where their tutelary deity was enshrined, may have held special significance. It is also mentioned in historical texts on clothing, such as the "Masasuke Shōzoku Shō," indicating that the combination was passed down through generations.
Since anticipating the seasons was considered "stylish," it was likely used as attire to announce the arrival of spring.
Related literature, waka poetry, and seasonal words
The color combination "Kasuga" itself has not been directly found to appear in narrative literature such as "The Tale of Genji" or "The Pillow Book." However, Kasugano and Kasuga Grand Shrine, from which it is derived, are frequently depicted as settings in many waka poems and stories. For example, in "The Tales of Ise," there is a scene in which the protagonist visits the village of Kasuga, and the "Kokin Wakashū" contains the poem, "Do not burn the Kasugano today, for the young grass hides me, and so do I."
These works suggest that people at the time felt a special connection to the scenery of Kasugano. The color scheme of "Kasugano" can be said to be a deeply evocative color combination, rooted in this literary imagery.
Kasugano is not to be burned today, the young grass is tucked away, and so am I.
The seasons and scenery of Kasuga
"Kasuga," as its name suggests, is a color combination worn in spring. It is considered most appropriate in late spring, when young grass sprouts in Kasugano and wisteria flowers begin to bloom at Kasuga Taisha Shrine, roughly from late April to early May in the modern calendar. The combination of the vibrant red on the outside and the lively green on the inside beautifully expresses the dynamism of spring that breaks the silence of winter. It is thought that clothing in this color combination was used in festive occasions such as celebrations of spring's arrival, flower viewing, and visits to shrines.
This color scheme evokes the warm sunshine of spring and the energy of new growth. Red symbolizes passion and vitality, while green represents peace and growth, giving the viewer a bright and positive impression. Heian-era aristocrats wore such attire to become one with nature and fully enjoy the changing seasons. Even today, this color scheme is recognized as a symbolic color combination that heralds the arrival of spring.
Kasuga's color scheme proposal
Yamabuki (#FFBF00)
The color of the Japanese kerria, a flower representative of spring. When combined with red and green, it creates a vibrant and cheerful scene of spring in full bloom. This lively color scheme was also favored in Heian period clothing.
White training (#FFFFFF)
White gives an impression of purity and sacredness. It resonates with the purity of the sacred grounds of Kasuga Taisha Shrine and the image of spring mist. It enhances the vibrancy of red and green while creating an elegant and refined atmosphere overall.
Ancient Purple (#895B8A)
A deep purple, closer to the color of wisteria blossoms. When combined with the red on the front, it allows for a more realistic and vibrant depiction of wisteria. It also pairs well with green, giving a noble, calm, and dignified impression.
Practical Scenes
In the world of traditional Japanese clothing, the "Kasuga" color scheme is incorporated into furisode (long-sleeved kimono), houmongi (formal visiting kimono), and accessories such as obi (sash), obiage (sash tie), and obijime (sash cord). Wearing it to occasions such as weddings, tea ceremonies, or theatrical performances in the spring season creates a vibrant and seasonal look. The contrast between red and green is also expected to brighten the wearer's complexion.
Even in contemporary fashion and design, the "Kasuga" color scheme offers captivating inspiration. Using this color blocking in dresses, skirts, and scarves creates a bold and memorable style. In interior design, incorporating it into cushions and curtains can bring a Japanese aesthetic and the spirit of spring to a room. In web design and advertising, it is an effective color scheme when dealing with spring campaigns or traditional themes.