Akakouiro (red fragrance color)Akakouiro (red fragrance color)

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Learn about Japan's traditional colors

2025.2.13

Can you read it? The traditional Japanese color "Akakoiro" is not pronounced "sekikoshoku"










What is the traditional Japanese color "Akakoiro"?




Akako-iro is a reddish fragrance dye color, characterized by a gentle color that adds a slight red to light brown. This color is a traditional color created by dyeing with agarwood and aloeswood, known as fragrant woods. In "The Pillow Book" by Sei Shonagon, an essayist active in the mid-Heian period, it is written that "Kariginu is a light, white fukusa dyed with fragrance," suggesting that it was a color often used for the clothes of aristocrats. In Buddhism, the color of incense is considered the second most noble color after purple, and was also used for monk's robes.





Akakouiro = Red fragrance color

 

It was said that the scent of fragrant wood remained on the dyed cloth or paper for a while. It was one of the colors that was loved by many aristocrats as a way of enjoying the fragrance. "Akakouiro" is pronounced "akakouiro".







R277 G145 B110 #E3916E/Akakouiro




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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