Loss and mourning are a part of everyone’s lives, and every country and culture has different etiquette and rules. When you visit Japan, it is crucial to know what is expected of you during these sad times.
Unfortunately, there is often a lot of confusion around this topic for tourists.
On the rare chance that you as a foreigner are invited to a Japanese funeral, you need to know what to expect. One of the most important things includes knowing the color of mourning.
This will impact what clothing you can wear to funerals and wakes, and possibly other events, too.
To learn about the color of mourning in Japan, just keep reading. We will cover everything you need to know – including what you should wear to a Japanese funeral.
What Is The Color Of Mourning In Japan?
Black is the color of mourning in Japan. This might be the color of mourning many people from the Western world are used to, but black is rarely a color of mourning in Asian countries!
For example, Thailand’s color of mourning is purple, and India’s is white. At any Japanese wake (Otsuya) and funeral (Ososhiki), the traditional color to wear is black. This applies to all visitors.
However, it is also important to note that just because black is the color of mourning in Japan, it does not mean that you can’t wear it. You can still freely wear black clothing in your daily life however you see fit.
In most cases, the style of your attire will symbolize the meaning of it.
For example, funeral clothing in Japan typically follows some very strict rules. There are also rules regarding traditional clothing worn by a bridegroom. Casual black outfits will not be misread as being either of these, so don’t worry about wearing black!
Are Any Other Colors Accepted?
More recently, other colors, such as dark grays and dark blue are becoming more acceptable as colors of mourning. However, if you are attending a funeral in Japan as a foreigner, we would not suggest trying either of these options.
Doing this could suggest a lack of respect for the culture. As such, you should make sure to stick to the rules of colors, and also dress codes to ensure you fit in.
When Would You Be Expected To Wear Black In Japan?
There are a handful of events and ceremonies where guests will be expected to wear black when they attend. The most important one is funerals. However, other formal events usually have a black dress code, too.
You will also be expected to wear black if you are attending a kimono wedding. Usually, organizers of an event will make the dress code clear to guests to avoid any missteps.
Again, you will see people walking the streets in regular black clothing, too, so don’t worry too much about this if you are not attending a formal event. Many Japanese businessmen wear black suits every day, and it’s just part of their wardrobe!
What Kind Of Clothes Would You Wear To A Funeral In Japan?
If you do find out that you are going to a Japanese funeral, there will be a strict dress code that you should adhere to. This will be a sign of respect and understanding, and make sure that the event goes smoothly.
There are some key rules about attending wakes and funerals as guests, which we will also cover below. These are crucial to be aware of, so be sure to read on.
Clothing For An Otsuya (Wake)
The Otsuya, or wake, is an important part of the mourning process. Here, the people attending do not have to wear the traditional black mourning clothes. This is typically because this event is held in the evening, when people are likely to only arrive after work.
At these events, it would still be preferred for guests to wear subdued colors, such as grays and blacks, but it is not a rule. Plain or everyday clothes are accepted, as long as they are not flashy.
You should not be taking attention away from the event itself.
Kimonos will be worn by widows and close relatives of the deceased. Other attendees should not be wearing these clothes. Students can wear their school uniforms, but bare feet are not allowed.
You will need to remember to bring a pair of black, navy blue, or white socks with you.
Men’s Clothing For An Ososhiki (Funeral)
Men are expected to wear the following to a Japanese funeral:
A conservative and plain black suit
Matte black tie
Plain white shirt
Plain black shoes with no buckles or accessories
No jewelry other than a wedding band
These items of clothing are easy to come across, and should be difficult to facilitate. Make sure you blend in with the crowd at these events, as they are not about you.
Women’s Clothing For An Ososhiki (Funeral)
Women are also expected to stick to particular clothes when attending funerals. These clothing options include the following:
A conservative black dress OR a conservative black suit if preferred
Black shoes that are flat and completely closed
Nylon stockings that are black and opaque
No jewelry other than wedding rings and a simple strand of pearls
Minimal makeup (no cold colors or looks, very understated)
Minimal perfume
Plain black bags
Long hair should be tied up in a bun, and short hair should be kept up with hairspray
A Few Things To Be Aware Of
Japanese funerals are almost always Buddhist-style. It does not matter the religion the family practices, and the body of the deceased will be cremated.
In some cases, local governments in Japan have even banned traditional burials, so this is something you need to be aware of.
If you are going to attend both the Otsuya and the Ososhiki, make sure that you only give the okoden (money offering or condolence money) at the Otsuya. Giving this offering to the grieving family is considered to be bad luck!
These offerings typically range anywhere from as little as ¥3,000 to ¥30,000 – depending on your financial position and relationship with the family.
When you give your okoden to the family, make sure that the envelope is never filled with new bills. This would suggest that you expected the death and had the time to get new money.
You should also ensure that you use the correct envelope (goreizen). If you want to write your name on the envelope to help the bereaved family keep track of the offerings, do so on the inside.
Final Thoughts
Funerals are a time of loss and mourning, and you should always do your best to respect it. By wearing the right color of mourning – black, you are helping to respect traditions.
When it comes to funeral clothing, make sure you follow the rules that we have mentioned above, and make sure that you do not stand out. As long as you follow the rules and know what is expected of you, the funeral will go smoothly.
Hi, I’m Jason Patrick, and for as long as I have been alive, I have been obsessed with Japanese culture. From the sights and sounds of Japan’s many cities to its culinary delights that have become famous worldwide, I simply cannot get enough of this wonderful nation!
I hope that, by exploring this website, you all will develop a much deeper appreciation for Japan, and that it may even influence you to pay it a visit yourself eventually! It is definitely a trip of a lifetime, and whether you experience it firsthand, or through my own website, I’m sure you will become just as passionate as I always have been!
