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Authentic Japanese Kimono Store

Sunday, October 30th, 2022

Chopa – Your Kimono Source is a leading provider and online Kimono shop offering authentic Japanese Kimonos and Yukata in the USA.  We are passionate about helping our customers experience the beauty and elegance of traditional Japanese kimonos. Established in 1994, we continue to offer a wide selection of kimonos and yukata in a variety of styles, fabrics, and sizes. This makes it easy to find the perfect kimono for any occasion.

Our kimonos are made from high-quality fabrics and are expertly crafted to ensure that they are beautiful, durable, and comfortable to wear. We also offer accessories to complete your kimono look, including obi and tabi socks also known as toe socks. Whether you’re looking for a kimono for a special event or wedding, a more casual yukata for a summer festival, or just want to add a touch of elegance to your everyday wardrobe, we have something to suit your needs. Chopa is your one-stop shop for all things kimono.

Visit us today and start shopping online for your perfect kimono!  Our goal is to provide our customers with the best possible shopping experience, whether you’re buying your first kimono or adding to your collection. Chopa sells tens of thousands of kimonos and yukatas to customers throughout the United States and around the world. Customers often say “shop with confidence” when recommending us. We offer a wide variety of kimonos and yukata for both men and women, as well as children.

For centuries, the kimono has been worn by men and women and is considered a Japanese icon around the world. These robes are often called wearable art displaying distinctive beauty, and sophisticated elegance and they are rich in symbolism. Chopa is your Kimono Source when you seek a fine robe. They are comfortable to wear, and easy to care for. The holidays are approaching and kimonos and yukatas make great gifts for anyone on your list. Our customers regularly purchase our robes for business gifts, wedding presents, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, graduations, and more.

We recently received our last shipment of the year. The Holidays are approaching and we are stocking our inventories as best as we can.  Watch for special Holiday offers throughout the season and if you are on a tight budget, see our selection of Open-Bag kimonos and yukatas.  These are brand-new robes opened by customs during an import inspection. They are refolded and bagged, but are not as crisply pressed and creased as they were before opening.

Chopa offers Free Shipping on orders of $75.00 or more to anywhere in the USA including Alaska and Hawaii. We offer easy returns and great customer service. Check out our Online Kimono Shop and see for yourself why people recommend and trust us.

kimono-robes

Beautiful Japanese Kimonos

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What is a Chinese Kimono?

Saturday, July 2nd, 2022

Chinese Kimono?  I thought Kimonos came from Japan?

Does this sound familiar?  If you are shopping for an authentic Japanese kimono, you should become familiar with the games and tricks that some dealers use. The kimono was created in Japan and is still the hallmark of Japanese-inspired clothing today. Kimono was once commonly worn with Chinese-influenced hakama, which is a type of long skirt. If the hakama had dividers separating the legs, they were similar to pants.  Some believe that because this combo was worn well over 1000 years ago, kimonos originated in China, but that is not the case.

To connoisseurs of kimono and yukata robes, nothing says “kimono” like “Made in Japan.” It is fairly easy to determine if a vendor is selling a true Japanese kimono. We see ads frequently that mask the true origination or disguise the fact they are made elsewhere. There is only one authentic kimono and those are made in Japan.

Not a week passes that we receive an email from a customer feeling betrayed or cheated by a kimono they purchased online. They thought they were buying a garment made in Japan, but in reality, it was a Chinese-made knock-off. This isn’t to say the quality isn’t adequate or that it can’t be called a kimono, but calling it a Japanese kimono is simply wrong. Why would dealers do this? To make more money and to sell a disguised counterfeit product to unsuspecting buyers.

Selling platforms like Amazon and Etsy need to do a better job enforcing “Truth in Advertising” laws and rules. Chopa has always had strong ethics and believes in being completely honest with our customers and non-customers. We have done so for over 28 years which we believe is one of the reasons we are still thriving in business today. We would never want to jeopardize our reputation or trick a customer just to make a buck.

There are unscrupulous dealers online and we are happy when customer writes us to tell us what a great experience they had shopping in our online Kimono Shop and how much they like the kimono. Unfortunately we receive those stories from customers that shopped elsewhere needing someone to talk to or help them if any remedy is possible.

A major rule of thumb in locating a Japanese Kimono are the words, “Made in Japan.” After all how much simpler can it get? If it is made there, it should say so in the description. Instead you will find Japanese Style, Japanese Inspired, or a blatant use of Japanese Kimono even when it isn’t made in Japan.  Take a look at Amazon or Etsy and you can determine where it is made.  Look for “ships from Bali” or a Chinese named business.

Checking on Amazon’s reviews allows you to discover what other customers already did. Here is a sampling of random reviews we found that say it all.

“The reviews here are misleading. It is not made in Japan.” – 2/11/21

“Needs to be washed. My complaint is the fabric is stiff and scratchy.” – 7/14/20

“Sending it back. The description and Q&A led me to believe this was made in Japan. The first thing I noticed when I opened the box was a Made in China tag.” – 9/01/19

“The kimono I received has a Made in China tag. I am very disappointed.” – 8/30/19

Those are very self-explanatory but one of our favorites (being sarcastic here) is the one review that states that the  “Made in China isn’t an issue. This is a Japanese brand that is made in China for Japanese markets, it is not a knock-off.” We would assume this was written by the dealer themselves. We have never heard of such ridiculous reasoning. There is no such thing. It’s just a ploy.

If you have any questions about buying a kimono, we of course welcome you to visit our online kimono Shop. Browse around, look at the different styles and know that all of our robes are finely crafted in Japan and imported directly to the USA for the enjoyment of our customers. We don’t make up stories, we don’t exaggerate and we don’t hide vital information.

Don’t ever assume that because a dealer says Japanese Kimono it is made in Japan. If it is, the dealer should say so, clearly and directly in the description, just like we do. Send us questions or stories you have about your shopping experience whether with us or another source. If we can guide you down the right path, we will certainly do so.

Some dealers on the web do unscrupulous things to compete in the online world of retail. One of our upcoming blogs will be about discovering that a competitor stole and published over two dozen copyrighted images from our website to use on their own site. No permission, no licensing agreement, no request, just blatant theft. If a retailer openly steals images, what else would they steal from you in the process of a sale?

USA Based Kimono Retailer

Trusted Kimono Source

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Where To Buy A Kimono (Part 1)

Sunday, June 5th, 2022

Buying a Japanese Kimono used to be difficult, often requiring a visit to Japan. As the popularity of these popular robes grew so did the buying choices of consumers. Today, there are many options when purchasing a kimono or yukata, but doing your research and educating yourself is essential. There are tell-tale signs when a dealer is being dishonest. You need to know where to look.

There are hundreds of dealers on the web today offering rainbows and unicorns. Unfortunately, many deliver headaches and disappointment. Chopa – Your Kimono Source has been an online retailer of Japanese robes since 1994. We were one of the first to do so and also one of the first to offer Plus-Sized, Short Kimono, known as Happi Coats, as well as Tall and Wide sizing. Some customers call us Kimono Pioneers.

Like shopping for anything on the Internet, finding a reputable dealer and buying something sight unseen can be daunting. When we began offering Japanese Kimono Yukata 29 years ago, our mission was to make it easy, and painless, and to take the guesswork out of kimono shopping. It was our goal to be upfront, honest and forthcoming with policies, pricing, and service.  We are proud to say, we still hold these convictions today.

We have conversations with customers every week asking us for help with a transaction they made with a dealer in Japan, China, Bali, and even on Amazon and Etsy. These customers thought they found a deal or believed their kimono was more authentic by purchasing it from an overseas dealer.  What many came to find out is that many unscrupulous retailers offer something other than advertised, inaccurate pricing, service, and shipping times.

A common complaint is that the kimono they bought wasn’t made in Japan, but rather in China.  The fabric was different, and the prints and colors were not what was advertised online. If the robe didn’t fit, which is a common complaint we hear, they get nowhere with the dealer attempting to return or exchange it. This is always disheartening to our staff as we want everyone to enjoy the art and beauty of the world of kimonos.

Unfortunately, since we are not part of this shady cast of characters that mislead and misguide unsuspecting customers, we cannot do much.  What we can do and are happy to help is offer advice and suggestions on how they might solve their problem. Where we can do the most good for people with questions is if they ask us questions before making a purchase. We have several simple things to look for and ask before handing over the credit card to finalize their purchase. Here are a few of those things we would look for and or ask the dealer directly.

Location. Where is the dealer located?

Are they actually in Japan? Many dealers mention Japan throughout their websites but are operating in China, Pakistan, Cambodia, Vietnam, or other regions. Realize that just because they claim they are located in Japan, doesn’t always ring true. We have come across numerous websites that claim Japan as their headquarters, yet they are operating in China and are selling Chinese-made kimonos.

Origin. Where was the Kimono made?

This is one of the most common false or elusive elements of the dishonest dealer. They will state “Japanese” Kimono, “Japanese Style”, “Kyoto” Kimono, etc. It sounds legitimate that you would be expecting the kimono was made in Japan, but in fact, it is being shipped from China and was made in China. This ties back to the location. Where are they operating from?  It is highly unlikely you will find a dealer in China, selling Japanese-made kimonos.  We have searched hundreds of listings and have never located such.

Just because the listing title says Japanese Kimono, does not mean it was made in Japan. Any reputable dealer will list the origin in the “About” section that describes the robe. If you are unable to locate it quickly, we usually say, run, don’t walk to the exit. There is only one reason a retailer won’t disclose the origin upfront in plain English, clearly and distinctly. That is because they are not being honest. If they are being dishonest about the origin, what else are they going to lie about?  The list goes on and can become very lengthy.

We will continue this Blog and reveal additional puzzles to solve to know whether you are about to be tricked, duped, or outright lied to. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us and we will do our best to address your concerns. Buying a kimono is easy, buying from the right dealer is the key to happiness and a pleasant shopping experience.  This is what we thrive on. Shop our online Kimono Shop anytime, we are always open and it never closes.

 

Hanu Garden Kimono

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Japanese Symbolism in Kimonos

Monday, May 30th, 2022

The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment with a rich history and symbolism. Dating back to the Heian period, kimonos were originally worn by the nobility and upper class as a status symbol. Over time, kimonos became more widely available. They continued to be associated with important occasions and formal events. Today, kimonos are still worn for special occasions, but they have also become popular as fashion wear. Kimonos are worn daily around the home or for special events and a night out. Yukata, or casual kimonos, are often worn during summer festivals or at hot springs.

Japanese kimonos are frequently decorated with colorful patterns and symbols that hold special meanings. Many of these symbols are derived from nature, such as flowers and animals. Other common symbols include waves, mountains, and cherry blossoms. Each symbol has its significance, and kimono designers take care to create unique combinations that will convey the desired message. For example, a kimono adorned with images of Mt. Fuji and waves might be meant to represent the strength and beauty of Japan. In this way, the symbolism of the kimono can be used to communicate messages of respect, admiration, or even love.

SYMBOLS FOUND IN KIMONOS AND WHAT THEY REPRESENT

Kimonos and yukatas are traditional Japanese robes that often feature a variety of symbols. These symbols can represent a wide range of concepts, from the natural world to aspects of the wearer’s personality. Common motifs include trees, flowers, and animals. The crane, for example, is a symbol of good luck, while the dragon represents strength and power. Pine trees are associated with longevity, and cherry blossoms represent the ephemeral nature of life. In addition to these traditional symbols, kimonos and yukatas may also feature more modern designs, such as geometric patterns or abstract shapes. No matter what the design, each kimono or yukata is a work of art that reflects the taste and personality of the wearer.

HOW TO INTERPRET THE SYMBOLISM WHEN LOOKING AT A KIMONO

The kimono is one of the most iconic garments in Japanese culture. Originally reserved for special occasions, kimonos are now worn by men, women, and children daily. Though the kimono has undergone many changes over the centuries, it remains an important part of Japanese life. When looking at a kimono, there are several things to keep in mind. Originally, the kimono was usually made of silk, which is a symbol of wealth and prosperity. Today, cotton is the most common choice due to its easy-care qualities and price. The kimono is often brightly colored and decorated with intricate patterns. These patterns can be symbolic of different things, such as nature or the seasons. Finally, the kimono is traditionally worn with a sash called an obi. The obi can be tied in different ways, each of which has its meaning. By keeping these things in mind, you can begin to interpret the symbolism of the kimono.

KIMONOS WITH INTRICATE PATTERNS

One of the most famous kimonos is the ume kimono, which features a pattern of plum blossoms. The plum blossom is a symbol of resilience and strength, as it is one of the first flowers to bloom in spring after a long winter. Another popular kimono is the Kiku kimono, which features chrysanthemums. Chrysanthemums are associated with royalty in Japan, and they are also considered to be lucky flowers. Kimonos with these types of patterns are often worn by brides on their wedding day.

THE FUTURE OF JAPANESE SYMBOLISM AND ITS POTENTIAL INFLUENCE ON WESTERN FASHION

There is no doubt that Japanese fashion is having a moment. Celebrities and everyday people alike are embracing the kimono, yukata, and other Japanese-inspired garments. But what does the future hold for this trend?

Some experts believe that Japanese symbolism will continue to grow in popularity, especially among young people. With the rise of social media, it’s easier than ever to connect with others who share your interests. And as more and more people adopt Japanese fashion as their own, the influence of Japanese culture on the Western world is likely to increase.

So what does this mean for Western fashion? It’s impossible to say for sure. But we may see more Japanese-inspired clothing and accessories in the years to come. Perhaps we’ll even see a resurgence of kimono-wearing in the West! Only time will tell. The kimono is a truly unique article of clothing, and it continues to be an important part of Japanese culture.

Chopa – Your Kimono Source offers a wide variety of Japanese Kimono, Yukata, and short-length Happi Coats. Shop online now!

                      Beautiful Kimonos

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Posted in Kimono for women, Men's kimono robe, Plus size kimono, short kimono | 1 Comment »

The Meaning Behind Japanese Kimono Symbolism

Saturday, May 21st, 2022

Japan is a country that has been around for centuries. Over the decades, they developed their own unique culture, and the country is known worldwide as “the land of the rising sun.” Japan is a fascinating place that holds one of the largest economies in Asia and produces some incredible technology, art, food, and more. The people are polite, humble yet firm with their beliefs. This is what makes it an interesting destination to visit or live in.

What do you think of when you hear the word “kimono”? For most people, the first thing that comes to mind is a traditional Japanese dress worn by women. However, did you know that kimonos have a rich history and meaning behind their patterns? In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the most popular kimono patterns and what they represent.

Kimono and yukata robes are an important part of Japanese culture. Kimonos come in a variety of colors and designs, each with its own unique story to tell. Some of the most popular patterns include flowers, birds, and animals. While the specific meanings vary depending on the design, several themes are commonly found in kimono patterns. The Japanese language is rich with patterns and symbols. The kimono, for example, wouldn’t be so fascinating without these magnificent historical designs that constitute the beauty of Japan’s art culture.

Here are just some of the popular symbols and their meanings:

The peony flower is considered the queen of flowers in Japan. Its tranquility and beauty have made it an ideal symbol for many cultures. This is especially true of those with rich histories like China or Persia. They use this plant to make perfume among other things. The peony is a flower that symbolizes femininity and prosperity in Japan. The legend says it’s lucky to have this plant as your friend because not only does the bloom represent love but also honor.

The Dragon is an ancient creature that has been associated with water, sky, and clouds for centuries. They are often considered deities in Japan, a symbol of strength and power as well as luck and good fortune. The people who worshiped dragons believed that these creatures could control the weather, and bring rain and floods. They could bring relief from drought by swimming in the water and protecting farmers’ crops.

The koi fish is a symbol of love, perseverance, and courage. The word “koi” translates to ‘carp’ in English and is used because of their migratory habits. Koi migrate up streams and rivers from low-lying areas to reach higher ground. Reaching their goal symbolizes courage. Koi have beautifully colored scales and can become even more colorful as they reach adulthood. This makes it an ideal decoration on Japanese fabrics because of how aesthetically pleasing these designs can be done by skilled artisans.

The plum tree is an evergreen that grows in dry areas. It becomes the first to bloom at the beginning of each new season. The pink or white petals of the plum blossom have five rounds with a delicate fragrance similar to jasmine. They symbolize health and renewal because they come back again after blooming once more proving their beauty through evolution, grace, and elegance.

Butterflies are a symbol of good luck and prosperity. They also represent transformation, with the caterpillar turning into an adult butterfly after several days or weeks. The meaning behind this popular insect is that it’s lucky because of its metamorphosis. The transformation from caterpillar to adult insect reminds us that we must always be ready to change our lives to achieve what we desire most: happiness.

The crane is a monogamous bird that symbolizes longevity and good fortune. Long associated with happy marriages, if two cranes are seen, then it suggests a long life together with a partner. Today, people believe these creatures bring luck with them when they fly into homes or businesses because their legs mean longevity.

Chopa – Your Kimono Source is proud to bring these colorful and symbolic patterns to our customers. As a direct importer of fine quality kimonos and yukatas since 1994, we share our love of these beautiful works of art with anyone who finds the beauty within. This is but a small sampling of kimono symbolism. Keep watch for our next post with additional symbols and explanations.  Shop our online store 24 hours a day to discover the kimono and symbolism that most intrigues you.

Koi Fish, courtesy of Quang Nguyen Vinh

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Posted in cotton yukata, Japanese kimono, Kimono for women, Plus size kimono, Tall kimono for men | 1 Comment »

Frequently Asked Questions

Saturday, March 19th, 2022

Chopa – Your Kimono Source is a leading online provider of authentic Japanese Kimono and yukata since 1994.  We receive many inquiries and questions each day and thought it would be informative to share some of these on our Blog.  If you want to learn more about Kimono, yukata, and Happi Coats, see our FAQ section on our website.

WHY SHOP WITH US?

There are many reasons to shop with Chopa because we are your Kimono Source. First is our reputation. Entering our 29th year in business, we are a leading online retailer of authentic Japanese Kimono and Yukata. Our customers provide us with many referrals and repeat business.  That alone speaks for itself. Some love our large selection with over 100 styles, prints, and sizes available. Others appreciate our fast shipping, while some love Free Shipping anywhere in the USA on orders of $75.00 or more. Combining any of these services along with our home office being based in the USA, it’s easy to see why customers shop with us.

HOW DO I PLACE AN ORDER?

Shopping with us is easy, safe, and secure.  Just visit our online kimono store anytime, anywhere. Our Kimono Shop never closes and you can browse, shop, and purchase kimono and yukata 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SHIP A KIMONO?

Most orders ship within one business day and many ship the same day. We pride ourselves on fast shipping and work diligently to expedite orders. We are located in the Northwest Panhandle of Florida and ship six days per week. We are a professional, full-time business that understands the need for a quick turnaround of your order. Some companies only ship a few days per week. Others are located in other countries like Japan, Taiwan, Korea, or China. From the feedback we receive from customers, many of these foreign-based companies lie about quick shipping and fail to deliver promptly.

Common complaints we hear from customers buying a kimono from an Asian-based company are lack of service, the long shipping times, and the inability to receive a response or reply from those businesses.  This is something we deplore in any business and always respond to our customers quickly, timely, and responsibly. Another complaint we hear about buying from an overseas company is the difficulty of returning an item.  Most customers say it is impossible.

DO I HAVE TO REGISTER OR SET UP AN ACCOUNT ON YOUR SITE?

No.  We never force our customers to store information on our website.  There is an option to establish an account and some customers choose to do so, but it is not mandatory. It is offered simply as a convenience for our customers.  The majority of customers who opt-in for an account are frequent buyers of our fine robes.  They often gift them to their business customers, shop for theater groups or hospitality companies.  We have several customer groups that rent homes, condos, and beach retreats, and provide their vacation renters with complimentary kimonos, Yukata, and Happi Coats. The bottom line is that you can purchase robes as a guest or establish an online account. The choice is yours.

WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?

Chopa accepts MasterCard, Visa, Discover, and PayPal. If you use PayPal, you can also use American Express. We use state-of-the-art technology including SSL, Secure Socket Layer platforms. All information is encrypted and payment information is never stored on our servers or computers. We also accept mail orders via checks or money orders.  We do not accept cash and never advise customers to send credit card information through email or mail.

HOW MUCH IS SHIPPING?

Orders of $75.00 or more ship Free anywhere in the USA including Alaska and Hawaii. Orders less than $75.00 are charged a nominal fee of $6.95 for one robe. We also ship internationally and the cost is listed in the shopping cart at checkout. The amount varies depending on the country and weight of the package.

DO YOU CHARGE SALES TAX ON PURCHASES?

Yes, we collect sales tax on orders shipped within the state of Florida.  We do not collect taxes in other states. While sales tax isn’t collected in other states, this doesn’t mean that you may not owe sales tax. Many municipalities require purchasers to self-report and pay their own.  You can check with your state to determine if this is required.

WHY DON’T YOU CHARGE CUSTOMS, DUTIES, TAXES, and IMPORT FEES ON ORDERS LIKE OTHER COMPANIES DO?

This question is common and the reason is that we have taken care of all import fees for you if you reside in the USA.  If you purchase a kimono or yukata from a business in Japan or another foreign country, you are subject to these costs. The package is an import and you are responsible for customs taxes, import duties, import fees, and other accessorial charges imposed by the government and the carrier for handling the cost of collecting.  Chopa is a direct importer and we pay all of these costs when we receive an order from one of our partners in Japan. This is another reason, customers like to shop with us. You won’t receive a surprise bill with your order. Our reputation stands on its own and we take the guesswork out of online kimono shopping. Shop with confidence when you shop with us.

Chopa makes online kimono shopping easy!

Kimono Shopping | www.chopa.com

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Finding The Most Popular Kimonos

Sunday, March 13th, 2022

TOP SELLING KIMONO and YUKATA FOR FEBRUARY, 2022.

Our customers are the pulse of our business.  When they visit our online Kimono Shop, they seek beautiful patterns, vivid colors, and unique styles. Customers also want a wide selection of sizes, reasonable pricing, and fast shipping from the USA.  There is a reason our customers have been shopping at our store since 1994. Because they find everything they want in one store, Chopa – Your Kimono Source.

Each month, we sit down and look back on what the Best Selling Japanese Kimono and Yukata robes were during the previous month. It is important as well as educational to see what was hot. One month it might be dragon prints, another period may include koi fish. Some patterns and styles are seasonal. For example, short-length kimono, or Happi Coats as they are called pick up steam and sell very well in Spring and Summer.  Many customers like the shorter-length robe to wear during the warmer months to stay cooler. Others wear them as coverups at the beach or pool.

A customer emailed us the other day asking where are our kimonos made.  We replied that all of our kimono and yukata robes are made in Japan.  We operate and are based in the USA however, so we can ship quickly from our main warehouse in Northwest Florida. Transit time normally takes 2-3 business days to anywhere in the USA. We hear of horror stories when people purchase a kimono from a vendor in Japan and how long it takes to arrive. We take the guesswork out of online Kimono shopping.  We are direct importers, cover all duties, taxes and also offer easy returns.

People realize after the fact, that when you order a kimono from a foreign country, you often receive a bill upon delivery for duties, taxes, customs fees, and any other auxiliary charges. Charges that were unexpected and not mentioned when they placed their order. This won’t happen if you shop with us in the USA.

Here are the TOP FIVE SELLING KIMONO AND YUKATA FOR FEBRUARY, 2022.

1: Yukata – Tree of Life.  The Tree of Life Yukata is frequently a top customer pick. This men’s yukata features a geometric print that dates back to 2000 B.C. The design is produced in a gray, black, and white-colored print. It is made of 100% cotton and is very distinctive when worn to a special event or ceremony.

2: Blue Koi Yukata. This Koi Yukata is selected by men and women. The blue and white print displays the elegant koi swimming in water. In Buddhism, koi represent courage. In Japan, these fish are considered to be symbolic of love and affection. Crafted in Japan of fine cotton with a shrink-resistant finish.

3: Yukata – Eternal Chain. Printed in a crisp blue and white pattern, the Eternal Chain forms a never-ending circle representing eternity. The chains are symbolic of life, hope, and, strength. The connectivity has no beginning or end and goes around in a circle forever.

4: Yukata – Navy Kagome. Kagome translates to the woven bamboo pattern. Printed in a dark navy blue and white palette, the artist designed beautiful bamboo silhouetted against subtle contrasting circles. The combination is reminiscent of old-world craftsmanship and simplicity.

5: Black Kimono Samurai Robe. This Japanese kimono provides the Zen you need after a long day at the office.  Sit back, relax and feel the calm in this lightweight, yet durable robe.  This kimono is perfect for attending ceremonies or simply relaxing at home. It is popular for meditating as well. Produced from 100% cotton broadcloth. This high-end fabric is densely woven and often used in fine dress shirts.

These five kimono and yukata were our customer favorites in February. You can view any or all of these by visiting our online store. We have new shipments arriving over the next two months and should have adequate supplies to carry us through the busier season.  A great big thank you goes out to all of our readers and customers for allowing us to share this information with you each month.  It’s a team effort. Our customers team with us and we announce the results.

Thanks for reading, now Get Your Kimono On!!

                         Eternal Chain Yukata

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Top Selling Kimono for January 2022

Friday, February 18th, 2022

Chopa is one of the leading online shops offering fine Japanese Kimono and Yukata robes. We like to provide our customers a list each month of what is popular right now.  There are many options available when choosing a kimono shop. Since we have been operating since 1994, we are confident that we offer some of the best choices out there.

Our goal has always been to enlighten and educate customers about the beauty and symbolism of Japanese Kimonos.  Whether you admire the cultural significance, the bright, vivid colors, the symbolic patterns, or the luxury and comfort these robes provide, we take the guesswork out of online kimono shopping.  Our fast shipping is just one component that sets us apart from the crowd.  Chopa is your Kimono Source and as such, we ship most orders within one business day. Many orders ship the same day if your order is placed early in the day. Most orders are delivered within 2-3 business days, weather permitting.

Chopa ships your order safely and securely from a warehouse in the Northwest Panhandle of Florida.  We do the importing for you and carry over 100 styles, colors, and patterns that are in stock and ready to ship. Orders of $75 or more ship Free anywhere in the USA, including Hawaii and Alaska. You avoid duties, taxes, and import fees when shopping with us.

Every week, we hear from customers expressing how happy they are to have found us.  Many come from referrals and word of mouth. They share stories with us about their previous experiences. To put it bluntly, they are not pretty stories.  People ordered directly from a dealer in Japan and were told shipping is quick, usually 3-5 days.  Reality is a wait of up to 30 days in many cases. Customers are told they could return it. An issue lies with translation issues. The purchaser doesn’t speak or write Japanese and the vendor doesn’t communicate in English. To this, we say good luck and recommend taking an aspirin for their headaches.

Other resulting issues are duties and taxes.  Their package arrives and they have presented a bill for $10, $15, or even $25 more for duties, taxes, customs clearance, and import fees.  Shoppers were never told about this. But if they don’t pay the costs, the carrier keeps the package and the customer is out. Sometimes these packages are submitted to customs. They are sold for liquidated damages and other times sent back to the shipper, who doesn’t issue a refund.

Frequently we hear about requests for returns being denied by the dealer.  Customers are told, the wrong size doesn’t qualify or 3 days is too long. Worse yet, they simply ignore emails and telephone calls. If a customer is granted a return approval, they are shocked when they go to the post office. Here, they discover that shipping a 2-pound package can cost $60 by Priority Mail. This cost is born by the customer, not the Japanese dealer.  We feel dealers operate this way because they discovered most customers will keep the robe instead of investing additional money into their losing investment already. It is sad but true.

In summary, you can see how we make this an easy choice to shop with us. One of our mottos is “We take the guesswork out of Kimono shopping” and once a customer shops with us, they realize how true it is.  We welcome you to go to our online Kimono Shop and see for yourself. Whether it’s men’s or women’s kimono or yukata or perhaps an outfit for your little Samurai or Princess, we have a large selection to choose from.

It seems like 2022 just began and we have now already blown through January and are over halfway through February.

Without further delays, here is our list of Top Selling Kimono and Yukata for January 2022:

  1. Tree of Life Yukata
  2. Dragon and Bamboo Yukata
  3. Navy Kagome Yukata
  4. Dragon and Hawk Yukata
  5. Yukata – Dragon & Mt Fuji Navy 

Chopa.com currently has two orders in production with smaller shipments arriving in mid-March and April. Our largest Spring order is expected to arrive from Japan in late April. The logistics staff continues to monitor shipping and supply chain issues.  We have been and will continue to use Air Freight for our future shipments. This is necessary until the Ports along both sides of the country catch up and fix their lengthy delays. While air is more costly than a cargo ship, we would rather absorb the cost and obtain our product quicker and more efficiently. Thank you for visiting our site and reading our Blogs.  Now Get Your Kimono On!!

                     Dragon and Hawk Yukata

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The Japanese Kimono and Symbolism of Colors

Sunday, February 6th, 2022

In Japan, tradition is key. It’s a country that has been influenced by many cultures, including Western ones. The beautiful language of colors found throughout their culture has deep meaning and validation. Traditional colors still hold some significance today for those living in Japan and visiting alike, especially when it comes to art or dress designs. To this day, when it comes to kimono or yukata worn for special occasions like weddings or ceremonies, beliefs about certain colors and hues are taken very seriously.

There are specific hues which carry special meaning from this culture as they believe these particular shades will result in obtaining wishes and goals. For example, some believe there may not be just one color that will bring good fortune, but rather an entire spectrum from blue-green representing water ways, all the way through reds signifying fire.

Kimono colors can be interpreted in many ways. The most important color, according to Japanese culture is green which represents new beginnings and good fortune. The secondary colors are white for growth, blue for peace and red which symbolize love. These have ancient meanings along with other cultures around the world who share similar beliefs. Colors are considered being relevant for determining future events like marriage prospects among others things.

The colors red and white are prominent in Japan. Both represent happiness, joyfulness as well an occasion for celebration such like weddings or birthdays. Events that bring people together to celebrate life events with family members who love them unconditionally.

The color red is important in Japanese culture. It’s often used to represent passion and joy. The first thing people think about when they see the vivid shade are cherries since those fruits have an association with love-related stories. In general, the color red carries with it many different meanings, but generally speaking this it represents strength through passion generated through self-sacrifice.

White also has multiple meanings and associations. White signifies surrender or peace and stands for purity, truth and honesty. It symbolizes beginnings from nothing, like a blank page yet also represents death and mourning.

The color green is a popular choice for clothes in Japan and it’s because the country loves plants, foliage and nature. The country celebrates greenery day because they love the land for its lush green vegetation. Whether it is trees or grass; this includes all things natural in life including green tea. In addition, it is holds significance for prosperity, wealth and luck or good fortune.

The color blue has many meanings in Japan. It is often associated with coolness, passivity and loyalty which are all seen as positive traits. Blue is also considered a color associated with luck.

No color is as auspicious for wealth and value than gold and silver. The color of wealth and power, gold has been a popular choice for centuries. These two elements are used to connotate great significance and prestige. It provides an elegant touch that can be found in many different patterns and works of art. Gold and silver are often used to create a rich symphony of color.

Black is a prized choice in Japan.  The blackness of the Kimono is often used to represent elegance or darkness. For example, it can be seen as a symbol for widowed women who have lost their spouse by death. The coloration also carries other connotations such classy garments reserved only for special occasions. The black color is often used in Japanese Kimono to represent power and elegance.

The black fabric of a kimono is often used to represent femininity and beauty in Japan. The color’s deep shade was originally created as an alternative for cherry blossom flowers, which were not available during winter months. Today, people wear them with pride even if there are no longer seasons where you can indulge your senses at their fullest extent.

Yellow is a popular color in Japan. It’s the Greece of colors, sunny and smiling. Japanese people have a special relationship with the color yellow. In Japan, this bright and cheerful tone can be seen in flowers as well as clothes for both children and adults alike. It is also associated with gardening. The color of sunshine and nature in Japan, yellow is associated with happiness.

Pink is a hue widely used in kimono for hundreds of years. It’s not just any old color, but rather it symbolizes femininity and elegance which are two things associated with women in Japanese culture. Pink is the color of romance and femininity. It’s also a symbol of healing to comfort women.

Of course there are more colors available and you can find a kimono or yukata in about any shade you desire.  Consider the Kimono palette the rainbow. Each color is special and the mixing or blending and pairing of colors provide additional significance in the Kimono culture. Wear your kimono proudly and if seeking a kimono gift, consider what traits the individual has and try pairing those with corresponding colors.  While it isn’t necessary to follow this guide, it deepens the meaning and cultural significance. Get Your Kimono On!! You can search over 100 different styles, colors and patterns of authentic Japanese Kimono and Yukata for men, women and kids at Your Kimono Source, www.chopa.com

 

Color palette of kimonos

Kimono Colors

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The Colors and Symbolism of the Japanese Kimono

Sunday, January 23rd, 2022

Kimono is a word that has been in use since at least the 12th century. Kimono translates as the “thing to wear.”  This ancient garment originated as an article of dress for Japanese women and girls. Soon it became popular all over Japan and Asia. This was due to its beauty, which was symbolized by long flowing skirts associated with femininity during this era when society really wasn’t progressing too much past old traditions.

Kimonos are much more than just beautiful clothing; they represent an era of elegance and culture. They have been worn by emperors, courtesans and geishas. All those who desired to make their mark on history through fashion for over 1000 years. The kimono’s rich history can be seen through every aspect from how people wear them today.

Dating back over ten decades to the present day, it continues on as one of Japan’s most iconic garments. Not only does this cloth provide comfort for its wearers, but also brings about pleasure through wear or simply seeing others in their beautiful outfits.  Some people can be mistaken on how valuable these items these items really are in culture and history.

Kimonos are a form of traditional Japanese clothing that can be worn at any time. The patterns and motifs have symbolic meanings related to the seasons. For instance, bamboo branches for winter or plum and cherry blossoms representing springtime in Japan. Plant imagery is often used for springtime celebrations in Japan because plants often grow quickly after being planted. The colors and patterns represent different seasons.

Kimonos are not just a symbol of Japanese culture, but also have deep personal meaning. The colors worn reflect their personality and attitude towards life in addition to what it means for them on an individual level. In modern society, people can easily attach meaning onto any object or person based off surface-level information alone. They often miss getting the story being told, much less why this particular piece matters so much more than others. Wearing kimonos with specific patterns tells a tale every time. When someone sees how beautifully designed each pattern actually is, they better understand the careful consideration put into making sure no detail went overlooked during construction and design.

The colors of kimonos have deep meanings. The most prominent being blue, which signifies sky and ocean in Japanese culture. Blue also means loyalty. Red is used to ward off evil spirits from coming near you or entering your home through some other means. For example, if someone walks past while looking depressed. Pink symbolizes youthfulness. It also holds the idea that older ladies will become young again when they die. This is because their spirit remains inside this material world for all eternity until it finds its true place. This hopefully happens sooner rather than later, according to Buddhist beliefs about life after death.

Today, the kimono is worn more than ever. They’re commonly seen at social gatherings like meeting with friends or attending graduation parties. Students will often dress up their graduate uniforms with an elegant Kimono to make them feel more adult-like while enjoying this ancient tradition. Kimono can also be used for more formal occasions such as a marriage and at a tea ceremony where it’s expected that you wear your finest attire.

No matter what the occasion or what your mood, it is fairly easy to locate a kimono or yukata robe that will match your needs and desires. Customers of Chopa – Your Kimono Source often purchase several. Some wear them while lounging at home, some wear them to special events, parties and festivals. Chopa offers over 100 different styles, colors and patterns in many sizes for men, women and kids. Their online Kimono Shop is open 24 hours a day for your shopping convenience. Shipping is always quick as most orders ship within one business day. Visit their shop today at www.chopa.com.

kimono yukata shop

Kimono History

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