A Kimono from Kyoto

I went to the Kobo-Ichi flea market with the intent of finding a kimono. I had read about the sprawling monthly market that took place outside the Toji Temple in Kyoto, and figured it would have an affordable option to replace my aging white robe. We arrived late afternoon as the crowds were dwindling and some of the vendors were already starting to pack. A bought a package of freshly made tako-yaki to munch on while I surveyed the temple grounds for the brightly colored silk gowns.

There were stands selling jars of honey and paper cards and bonsai, antiques and jewelry and clothing. A number of vendors were selling vintage kimonos. They were folded in stacks or tossed in piles or hanging on racks like silken rainbows. A brightly colored blue and gold kimono caught my attention, and the woman working at the booth graciously helped me try it on. Soon I was trying on kimono after kimono, and this process attracted the attention of a trio of women who were passing by. They appraised each kimono critically, and provided their feedback in the form of claps and head nods of encouragement.

Though I loved the vibrant colors of the brighter gowns, they didn’t seem to suit me. Eventually I made my way to the rack that held the special kimonos and noticed one that was pale lavender with a beautiful peach and gold pattern. It was less attention grabbing than the others, and in a way, I thought that made it more beautiful.

The lavender kimono was a bit above my price range, but I figured there was no harm in trying it. It was very long and heavy silk, and when the saleswoman tied it up around my waist it still pooled on the ground at my feet. Despite the size, the lavender kimono received unanimous approval from the ladies. A smiled his agreement, and soon the kimono was packaged up to head back to San Francisco with me.