With sporty materials, yukata become more accessible. Y&Sons, a men's kimono tailor from Yamato, a long-established kimono shop founded in 1917, is exploring new possibilities for the yukata, a symbol of summer, using cutting-edge materials. Actor Shinnosuke Abe, who regularly wears yukata on the sets of historical dramas and period pieces, explores new ways to enjoy the yukata together with Takayuki Yajima, the project director of Y&Sons.

Born in Osaka Prefecture in 1982, he began his acting career in 2003 with the film "Lovers' Kiss." After his breakout role in the 2004 drama "Chouseishin Gransazer," he has appeared in numerous popular works, including the historical drama "Gunshi Kanbei," the film "Nobunaga Concerto," and the drama "Shitamachi Rocket." With the film "Kamisama no Wadachi" set to be released this fall, he is steadily building his career.

Born in Tokyo in 1982. After working as a firefighter and hotel employee, he joined Yamato Co., Ltd. in 2013. Currently, as Director and Head of Business Creation at the company, he oversees the branding and operation of Y&SONS, THE YARD, and KIMONO by NADESHIKO.

—What are your honest impressions after wearing it?

Abe: I find the fact that it's so easy to wear to be refreshing. I often have opportunities to wear yukata for photo shoots and such, but what I noticed was particularly different was the obi (sash). Normally, you tie it tightly and it makes you stand up straighter. However, wearing it for a long time can get tiring. In that respect, the way you wrap it around and tuck it into your waist is much more relaxing and comfortable.

Made from a blend of cotton and polyurethane, this yukata prioritizes comfort. The unexpected material gives it a new dimension. Accessorize it with sandals, backpacks, and other items for a modern twist.

Y. & SONS yukata (Japanese summer kimono) ¥52,920
FACETASM Hat ¥12,960
ithelicy Backpack ¥36,720
SUICOKE sandals: ¥19,440

Yajima: The yukata you're wearing today was developed in conjunction with a promotion at Isetan Men's, and we're suggesting it for active scenes such as festivals and outdoor activities. The obi can be tied loosely, but there are buttons at the overlapping part to prevent it from coming undone.

—The price is reasonable, making it perfect for a first purchase.

This is Yajima Y & Sons' third year in business. Up until now, we've been making yukata rooted in the fabric-making regions, but this season, for the first time, we've used functional materials such as polyester and polyurethane to allow for more freedom in how people enjoy wearing them. We hope you'll wear them in a light and breezy style, paired with modern sandals and hats.
Even though Abe is wearing a yukata and a backpack, the outfit still looks cohesive. This is probably due to the easy-to-wear and functional details, as well as the fact that it's made from a polyester material similar to that used in sportswear. This would look much better than sweatpants when you're just popping out to the convenience store.


—The fact that storage is not a problem is also worth mentioning.

Many people think that when it comes to storing Yajima kimonos, you need paulownia wood storage boxes or chests of drawers. Of course, it's ideal to have those, but at Y&Sons, we provide special storage boxes. They are made of cardboard, so they are sturdy and have excellent moisture absorption. These are special boxes that we designed from scratch and finished with foil stamping of the family crest.
For those who feel that yukata are intimidating, I hope you'll try them on and experience the difference. For example, by changing your outfit from "jeans and a T-shirt" to a yukata, you can also enjoy a sense of Japanese aesthetics. This summer, yukata can be enjoyed in a more casual way.