Changing Seasons, Changing Clothes: Koromogae in Japan
- Narelle Katsumoto
- 6月1日
- 読了時間: 3分
If you visit Japan in early June or October, you might notice something curious: people’s outfits suddenly shift! Long sleeves become short sleeves, dark colors turn to light ones, and heavier fabrics are swapped for breezy ones. This isn’t just a coincidence—it’s a centuries-old tradition called 衣替え (koromogae), or the seasonal change of clothing.
Let’s take a closer look at what koromogae really means.
What Is Koromogae?
Koromogae happens twice a year—on June 1st and October 1st—when people across Japan, especially students, civil servants, and shop workers, switch their wardrobes to match the season. It’s not about buying new clothes but moving the right ones from storage into daily use. You’ll see winter uniforms replaced with summer ones in June, and the reverse in October.
Japan’s seasons are very distinct, so this tradition helps people stay comfortable and stylish throughout the year. In places like Hokkaido, where it’s cooler, people shift their clothing a bit later, from June 15 to September 15. In the warmer southwestern regions, summer clothes might come out as early as May 1 and stay until November 1!
A Little History
Koromogae dates back to the Heian period (794–1191) and was originally a custom imported from China. It started in the imperial court and eventually spread throughout society. In the Edo period (1603–1868), even samurai had to switch their clothing four times a year by official rule!
When Western clothing and the modern calendar were introduced in the Meiji era, the government standardized koromogae to twice a year, which is how it’s practiced today.
Not Just Clothes!
Traditionally, koromogae could involve more than just garments. In the past, people might switch out bowls, cups, decorations, and even furniture to reflect the season. While this is less common now, some households still keep the spirit alive by changing items here and there to welcome the warmer or cooler months.
Modern-Day Koromogae
These days, not everyone sticks to the strict June and October schedule. In fact, a recent survey by Daiwa House found that 44% of people switch clothes gradually as the weather changes, while 36% still follow the traditional twice-a-year swap. Some people decide when to switch based on weather forecasts, what others are wearing during their commute, or simply when it feels too hot or cold to handle!
The clothes not in season usually get stored in the back of a closet or in under-bed boxes—often with moth repellents for protection. Many people also take this as a chance to declutter, donate, or even sell their old clothes.
More Than Just Practical
While koromogae may seem like a chore, many people still enjoy it as a way to pause and appreciate the changing seasons. It’s a moment to tidy up, reflect on your personal style, and feel more in tune with nature. Some even say it brings a little seasonal joy!
In 2005, Japan even introduced Cool Biz (クールビズ), a campaign that encouraged office workers to ditch their suits and ties during summer, setting office air conditioners at 28°C. It was a modern twist on koromogae and quickly became popular.
Travel Tip
If you’re planning a trip to Japan around June 1st or October 1st, take a peek around—you’ll notice uniforms changing, store displays shifting, and maybe even neighbors reorganizing their closets. If you're staying with a host family, you might even get to experience koromogae firsthand. It’s a lovely way to bond and see how deeply the seasons are woven into everyday life in Japan.
So the next time you pack your suitcase for Japan, remember: your outfit might just be part of a centuries-old tradition—one that celebrates both style and the seasons.
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