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Traditional Black Silk Koromo Buddhist Monk Robe | Kyoto Antique Japan
Traditional Black Silk Koromo Buddhist Monk Robe | Kyoto Antique Japan
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Traditional Black Silk Koromo – Buddhist Monk Robe – Kyoto Kawabata Hōzaiten | Antique
This Traditional Black Koromo (黒衣) is an authentic Buddhist monk robe handcrafted by the renowned Kawabata Hōzaiten atelier in Kyoto. An antique ceremonial garment made of silk and blended fibers, it was traditionally worn by temple priests, monks, and shugenja (修験者) during rituals, ceremonies, and meditation practices. A rare and refined piece symbolizing the timeless dignity and discipline of Japanese Buddhism.
🪶 Heritage & Meaning
The Koromo is a sacred robe representing the path of Muga (無我) — selflessness — and the harmony between body, mind, and Dharma. Its deep black color, known as Kokue (黒衣), signifies Kū (空) — emptiness and detachment from ego. Worn for centuries by monks of the Sōtō and Rinzai Zen schools, as well as Shingon Mikkyō practitioners, this robe embodies the quiet strength and inner clarity cultivated through spiritual training.
🧵 Craftsmanship
Each garment is the result of Kyoto’s finest Hōi (法衣) craftsmanship, passed down through generations. Produced by Kawabata Hōzaiten — a temple robe workshop serving the Buddhist community of Kyoto — this Koromo features:
- Fabric: Blended silk and chemical fibers for durability and soft texture
- Color: Deep ceremonial black (黒無地)
- Condition: Antique – excellent overall state, no visible stains or damage
- Dimensions: Length 120 cm / Width 85 cm
- Origin: Kyoto, Japan
📏 Detailed Measurements
| Part of the Garment | Measurement (cm) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sleeve to Sleeve (Total Width) | 168 | Full span from end of one sleeve to the other |
| Total Length | 122 | Measured from the collar to the hem |
| Body Width | 55 | Measured flat under the armpits |
| Sleeve Height | 71 | Vertical length of the sleeve |
| Sleeve Width | 55 | Horizontal opening width of the sleeve |
💠 Symbolism
The Koromo is more than a garment — it is a living expression of Dharma. In Buddhist tradition, it represents the vow of simplicity, humility, and devotion. For practitioners of Togakure Ryū Ninpō and Shugendō, it also serves as a bridge between physical practice and spiritual awareness — embodying the unity of movement and meditation.
🕊️ Suitable For
- Zen and Mikkyō practitioners seeking authentic monastic clothing
- Buddhist priests, monks, or ascetic practitioners
- Collectors and museums of Japanese religious art
- Performers of traditional arts (Noh, Kyōgen, Shodō, or Kado)
🌸 Condition & Authenticity
This is a one-of-a-kind antique piece from Kyoto, carefully inspected and preserved. No visible wear, tears, or stains. Certified authentic and handcrafted in Japan. Delivered with protective wrapping and a detailed certificate of origin.
🚚 Shipping & Details
- Origin: Kyoto, Japan
- Maker: Kawabata Hōzaiten
- Material: Silk blend
- Category: Buddhist Robe / Hōgi (法衣) / Koromo (衣)
- Condition: Antique, excellent
- Reference (new models): ¥100,000–¥150,000 (≈ $663–$995 USD)
- Shipping: DHL Express Worldwide (3–5 days) or EMS Japan Post
🪶 Would you like to learn more about the meaning and origin of the Koromo?
Read our in-depth blog article:
“What is a Koromo? The Traditional Buddhist Monk Robe of Japan”
Authenticity • Serenity • Heritage
Experience Kyoto’s spiritual craftsmanship through this sacred Koromo — the Robe of Truth.
Japan Origin
- Easy Returns
- Delivery 4-7 Days
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Excellent experience with this e-shop which I do recommend for their really nice selection and for their precious advice.
The Tabi boots I get are exactly how I expected them.
As an US 10 the 28 is perfect.
Japanese traditional style to walk through the streets of the world
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My haori arrived in a timely manner and was everything I expected it to be and more. The quality of the haori is fantastic, and it fits great!
This pair of shoes is really very comfortable, and the craftsmanship is excellent. It's exactly what I expected. The only problem is that I ordered a pair half a centimeter larger than my usual size, and even so, they're so tight that I can't even wear socks (tabis)!
I loved them, very beautiful and perfect fit if you follow the measure instructions. Looking forward for some outdoors bujinkan training in the spirng!
I wish they would come in 12 version as well
Thank you very much
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The Samue suit is very beautiful crafted - the fabric is soft and very pleasant to wear. A high quality clothing that exudes a genuine Japanese feeling attention to detail. . The tabi shoes clearly high quality. I am very happy.
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heads raised to the heavens, i am not worthy of the energy without thy consent.
Comfortable and visually stunning
Just the right size.
As this belt was a replacement for my original black belt from 2003, I am very pleased to say that it has the same feel and quality of my previous belt. I teach karate 5 days a week, so I need a belt that stands the test of time. I am positive that this is it!
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An amazing Gi. More like a samurai robe. Where the tk-10 is stone this is water, not flimsy but heavy but flows like a powerful river. Amazing quality.
Origin
Our products are crafted in Japan, reflecting the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of Japanese artisans. Each item embodies the dedication and precision honed through generations, ensuring authenticity and superior quality.
Craftsmanship
All our products are meticulously handmade by skilled artisans in our workshops. We take pride in offering items that showcase traditional techniques and a commitment to detail, making each piece unique.
Materials
We use only the finest, high-quality materials sourced from Japan. Our selection includes noble materials known for their durability and elegance, ensuring that every product not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of quality and excellence.