The Meaning of Flowers (Japan)

Hanakotoba is the name given to the Japanese language of flowers.  In Hanakotoba, flowers are assigned hidden meanings and are used to express symbols of feelings, emotions, and messages.

Translated to English, Hana means flower
and Kotoba means word.

This stamp issued by Japan in 1991, honors the Japanese tradition of Hanakotoba.

 

This Honeysuckle  (Suikazura in Japanese) reflects generosity.

 

 

History:
Language of flowers, called Floriography, has been an ancient tradition celebrated throughout the world.  Using certain flowers and flower arrangements, Floriography allowed people to send hidden messages of feelings and thoughts that could not otherwise be transferred through spoken words.  Floriography entered Japan around 1870 and Japan’s independent language of flowers, Hanakotoba, became widespread soon after.  Since the end of World War II to the present, the use and understanding of Hanakotoba in Japan has receded due to the influence of Western lifestyle and culture.

Examples of Hanakotoba:

(Japanese, English: Meaning)

Sakura, Cherry Blossom:
Kind/Gentle

 

 

 

 

Shirayuri, White Lily:
Purity/Chastity

 

 

 

 

Renge, Lotus:
Far From the One He Loves

 

 

 

For more examples or to learn more:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanakotoba

A Word from the Ethnicitee Team:
The Ethnicitee Team was inspired by the Meaning of Flowers Japan stamp because it had rich historical value and showed a beautiful way that people communicate amongst one another.  Through research, we found that most ancient cultures did have some type of Floriography.  However, the Japanese Hanakotoba is a separate, independent Floriography.  This is an aspect of arts, history, and culture that people of all backgrounds can celebrate through their similarities as well as their differences.

  

The Ethnicitee Women’s Line is fashioned through soft handed inks and an assortment of special printing and foiling techniques. The palette for the Long Body Short Sleeve Crew Neck as well as our Vintage Sheer Scoop Neck is 100% combed ring spun cotton. The palette for the Baby Waffle Thermal and Thermal Hoody is a 55/45 poly/cotton blend.
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Ethnicitee Meaning of Flowers Japan apparel, click here!