Secret colorSecret color

Experiences

Premium Calendar

Learn about Japan's traditional colors

2025.12.9

Can you read it? Japanese traditional color "Hiiro" is not pronounced "Hiiro"










What are the traditional Japanese colors "Hiki"?




The clear, light green color seen in celadon ware is called 'hijiki'. Looking back in history, celadon porcelain began to be fired in earnest in China from the end of the Western Han dynasty to the beginning of the Eastern Han dynasty, and was introduced to Japan through trade with the Song dynasty. This delicate color was deeply ingrained in aristocratic culture in the Heian period, and appears as "ao-ji" in The Tale of Genji. It seems that the word "seiji (celadon)" came into general use after the Meiji period.





Secret color = Hisoku

 

The name "hishiki" comes from its profound and mysterious beauty, and was used to confer special value. "Hishiki" is pronounced "hisoku."







DIC Traditional Japanese Colors: R105 G176 B172 #69B0AC / Hisoku




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

Experiences

Premium Calendar

Learn about Japan's traditional colors

Premium Calendar

not_post_content_not_jascroll top