Traditional Hitatare (Samurai Clothing)

Description

Embrace the Timeless Elegance of the Samurai!

The Traditional Hitatare is the most iconic and widely recognized style of clothing worn by samurai from the Heian Period through the Sengoku Era of Japan (796–1573). This historic attire symbolizes both status and functionality, designed for comfort, mobility, and an imposing presence on and off the battlefield.

Iron Mountain Armory proudly offers a full three-piece Traditional Hitatare set, which includes:

• Hakama-Shita (Shirt for Hakama)
• Kukui-Hakama (Tied Hakama Pants)
• Juban Shitagi (Undershirt)

Design & Historical Significance:

The Hakama-Shita is an open-front shirt with free-flowing sleeves, which are attached only halfway down the body. This design allows for increased ventilation and mobility. Rope ties at the wrists allow the sleeves to be secured at the elbow when needed, making it adaptable for both combat and ceremonial use.

The Kukui-Hakama (tied hakama pants) are designed with soba (openings along the upper thigh), improving ventilation and range of motion. These pants feature rope ties at the ankles, allowing the wearer to secure them below the knee while traveling through rugged terrain or preparing for battle. When pulled up, samurai would often wear kyahan (leggings) for added protection and comfort, particularly when wearing suneate (shin armor). If the pant legs were worn down and tied at the ankle, kyahan would be used to secure the fabric, ensuring ease of movement and a secure fit under armor.

The Hitatare originated during the Heian Period and became a staple of samurai fashion by the mid-13th century. Distinguished by its large, flowing sleeves, it represented a departure from previous samurai attire, emphasizing elegance and practicality. During the Kamakura Period (1185–1333), samurai often paired the Hitatare with a tall tate-eboshi (ceremonial hat). By the Muromachi Period, the flattened ori-eboshi became the more common headwear choice. When worn with armor, samurai would don a specialized Yoroi Hitatare, slightly differing from the traditional version.

Our historically accurate Traditional Hitatare is crafted to match the authentic designs of the past, making it ideal for historical reenactments, martial arts, formal occasions, and cosplay. Our samurai clothing and accessories have been featured in the Netflix and Smithsonian Channel docudrama, “Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan.”

How to Wear:

Secure your Tattsuke Bakama with four himo (straps), two long himo attached at the front and two shorter himo attached at the back. Wrap the front himo around your back and tie them under the front panel. The rear himo should wrap around the front straps and tie securely under the pants, concealing the straps to prevent interference during combat or intense activity.  Click here for FULL INSTRUCTIONS

Ordering Options:

• Era Style Selection: Choose between Sengoku/Muromachi Era or Edo Era, each offering fabric choices that were commonly used during their respective periods.
• Mon (Family Crest) Customization:
  • Select from our standard mon options or submit a custom mon design.
  • Custom mon designs can be submitted via email after order confirmation.
  • If you select a printed mon, we will use the most suitable printing method (traditional or heat transfer) based on the selected fabric and color.

Ordering Tips:

• Custom measurements provided are for reference only; our seamstress may make slight alterations to ensure a proper traditional fit.
• Please contact us before placing your order if you need assistance with sizing or customization.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Complete 3-Piece Set: Includes Hakama-Shita, Kukui-Hakama, and Juban Shitagi (undershirt).
• Optional Materials & Sizing: Fully customizable to ensure the best fit and historical accuracy.
• Premium Fabric Choices: Japanese linen or brocade.
• 100% Silk Available: Available upon request for an additional cost.

Product Crafting Time: Please allow our experienced seamstress at Iron Mountain Armory an average of 5 to 8 days for processing and crafting your Traditional Hitatare Samurai Clothing Set. This ensures precise craftsmanship and high-quality historical accuracy.

Accessories:

• Hikitate Eboshi – Add a traditional cloth hat to your order, traditionally worn by Samurai
• Sarashi Belt – A traditional long cotton belt, used by Samurai to to secure their katana
• Waraji Sandals – Bamboo straw sandals commonly used by samurai
• Waraji-Gake – Traditional type of Japanese sock that is to be worn together with the Waraji sandals
• Tabi Socks – Two toe section sock for use with sandals
• Yugake – Traditional samurai gloves