Iwai teaIwai tea

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Learn about Japan's traditional colors

2025.1.7

Can you read it? The traditional Japanese color "Iwai tea" is not pronounced "gan'icha"










What is the traditional Japanese color "Iwai tea"?




Iwai tea is characterized by a slightly greenish brown color. It is said to have been named after Iwai Hanshiro V, an Edo Kabuki actor who played female roles, who used it frequently. Iwai Hanshiro, who enlivened the Kabuki stage during the Bunka and Bunsei periods (1804-1830), established a new style by playing villainous roles in plays set in townspeople's society. In particular, the costume he wore when he played Yaoya Oshichi at the Kawarazakiza Theater in 1809 is said to have been a hot topic. Iwai brown was a chic and stylish color at the time, and was widely loved by common people.





Iwai tea = Iwaicha

 

 
Due to the popularity of Iwai Hanshiro, colors named after him, such as "Hanshiro Komon" and "Iwai Ka", became popular. Iwai brown was one of those traditional colors that gained popularity. "Iwai tea" is pronounced "Iwai-cha".







R100 G106 B88 #646A58 / Iwai Tea




What is “Learn about Japan’s traditional colors”?
We will also introduce beautiful traditional Japanese colors, how to read their kanji, and the background behind the colors. Let's enjoy together the Japanese sensibilities that have been passed down since ancient times.

 

 


Reference books: “Beautiful Japanese Traditional Colors” published by PIE International, “365 Days of Poons Illustrated Book” written by Reki Seikatsu and published by Genkosha

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Learn about Japan's traditional colors

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