The fundoshi is a traditional piece of Japanese underwear that has been worn for centuries. Simple in design and made from a long strip of fabric, it was once the standard undergarment for Japanese men before the introduction of modern Western-style underwear in the 20th century. Practical, lightweight and easy to wash, the fundoshi was widely used by workers, farmers, and even samurai.
Today, the fundoshi is no longer part of everyday clothing, but it still holds an important place in Japanese culture. It is often worn during traditional festivals, ceremonies, and cultural events, where it symbolizes heritage, simplicity, and a connection to the past. In this guide, you’ll discover the history of the fundoshi, its different styles, and how it is still used in Japan today.
What Is a Fundoshi?
A fundoshi is a traditional Japanese undergarment made from a long strip of fabric, usually cotton. It was the standard underwear for Japanese men for centuries, long before modern briefs and boxers were introduced. Simple, practical, and easy to maintain, the fundoshi was worn by people from all walks of life, including farmers, craftsmen, laborers, and samurai.
The garment is wrapped and tied around the waist and between the legs, creating a secure and breathable fit. Because it is made from a single piece of cloth, it is lightweight, quick to dry, and comfortable in hot and humid weather. These qualities made it especially popular in Japan’s climate.
Although the fundoshi is no longer used as everyday underwear, it still appears in traditional festivals, religious ceremonies, and cultural events. Today, it is often seen as a symbol of Japanese heritage and traditional clothing.
The History of the Fundoshi in Japan
The fundoshi has a long history that dates back more than a thousand years in Japan. Before modern underwear was introduced, it was the standard undergarment for men across the country. Simple to produce and easy to maintain, it was worn by people from all social classes, from farmers and fishermen to craftsmen and samurai.
During the Edo period (1603–1868), the fundoshi became a common part of everyday clothing. Men typically wore it under their traditional garments, and it was also used as workwear in hot or humid conditions. Because it was made from a single strip of fabric, it could be washed easily and dried quickly, making it practical for daily use.
The fundoshi was not only functional but also symbolic. In certain contexts, it represented strength, discipline, and masculinity. It was worn by laborers carrying heavy loads, by firefighters during dangerous missions, and by participants in traditional festivals.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Western-style underwear began to spread across Japan. As the country modernized, briefs and boxers gradually replaced the fundoshi in everyday life. By the mid-20th century, it had largely disappeared as a daily garment.
Today, the fundoshi survives mainly in cultural and ceremonial settings. It is still worn during traditional festivals, religious events, and by some practitioners of martial arts or traditional lifestyles. Although no longer common as everyday underwear, it remains an important symbol of Japan’s clothing heritage.
The Different Types of Fundoshi
Over the centuries, several types of fundoshi have been developed, each with its own shape, tying method, and traditional use. While all fundoshi are based on the same principle—a strip or piece of fabric wrapped around the body—different regions and activities led to variations in design.
Etchū Fundoshi
The Etchū fundoshi is one of the most common and recognizable types. It consists of a rectangular piece of fabric with two long ties attached to the sides. The cloth is placed between the legs, and the ties are wrapped around the waist and secured at the front. This style became popular during the Edo period because it was easy to wear and comfortable for daily use.
Rokushaku Fundoshi
The rokushaku fundoshi is a longer, narrower strip of fabric, usually about six shaku (around 2.3 meters) in length. It is wrapped and tied around the body without any additional strings. This typeis considered one of the most traditional forms of fundoshi and is often seen during festivals and ceremonial events.
Mokko Fundoshi
The mokko fundoshi is a more modern variation designed for comfort. It has a pouch-like front and elastic or soft ties, making it easier to wear than traditional styles. Because of its practicality, this type is sometimes used as everyday underwear by people interested in traditional clothing.
Kuroneko Fundoshi
The kuroneko fundoshi is a smaller and more minimal style. It is designed to cover only the essential areas, offering a lighter and more compact fit. This type is commonly worn during certain traditional festivals, especially those held in summer.
Wari Fundoshi
The wari fundoshi is a split-style variation that provides more flexibility and freedom of movement. It is less common today but was historically used for specific types of work or physical activities.
Each type of fundoshi reflects a different need, whether for daily wear, physical labor, or ceremonial use. Together, they show how this simple garment adapted to various aspects of traditional Japanese life.
Is the Fundoshi Still Worn Today?
Although the fundoshi is no longer used as everyday underwear in Japan, it has not disappeared completely. Today, it is mainly worn during traditional festivals, religious ceremonies, and cultural events. In these contexts, the fundoshi is seen as a symbol of strength, tradition, and connection to Japan’s past.
One of the most famous examples is the Hadaka Matsuri, or “naked festival,” where participants wear only a fundoshi while taking part in rituals. These events are held in different parts of Japan and attract thousands of people every year. The fundoshi is also worn in some Shinto ceremonies and traditional performances.
In recent years, there has been a small revival of interest in the fundoshi. Some people are rediscovering it for its comfort, simplicity, and breathable design. Modern versions, sometimes adapted with softer fabrics or elastic bands, are now sold as alternative underwear inspired by traditional Japanese clothing.
While it is no longer a common everyday garment, the fundoshi remains an important cultural symbol. It continues to appear in festivals, ceremonies, and niche fashion circles, preserving its place in Japan’s clothing heritage.
How to Wear a Fundoshi
Wearing a fundoshi may look complicated at first, but the process is quite simple once you understand the basic steps. The exact method depends on the type of fundoshi, but most styles follow the same principle: the fabric is wrapped around the waist and passed between the legs to create a secure and comfortable fit.
For a traditional rokushaku fundoshi, which is a long strip of cloth, you begin by holding the fabric behind your waist. The ends are wrapped around the hips, then one end is brought between the legs and tucked into the waistband at the back. The remaining fabric is adjusted to create a snug but comfortable fit.
The Etchū fundoshi is easier to wear because it includes side ties. You place the front cloth between the legs, then bring the ties around the waist and secure them at the front. This style is more straightforward and was commonly used for daily wear.
The key to wearing a fundoshi is balance. It should be tight enough to stay in place, but not so tight that it becomes uncomfortable. With a little practice, the tying process becomes quick and natural, just like putting on any other type of underwear.
Fundoshi for Men and Women
Traditionally, the fundoshi was worn almost exclusively by men in Japan. It served as the standard undergarment for workers, farmers, and samurai, and it was also used during festivals and religious ceremonies. Most historical styles, such as the rokushaku and Etchū fundoshi, were designed with male wearers in mind.
In modern times, the fundoshi has evolved and is now worn by both men and women. Some designers have created updated versions with softer fabrics, different cuts, and more comfortable fits. These modern fundoshi are often inspired by traditional shapes but adapted to suit contemporary tastes and lifestyles.
For women, certain styles—especially the mokko fundoshi—are popular because of their simple, comfortable design. They are sometimes chosen as an alternative to conventional underwear, especially by people interested in natural fabrics, minimalism, or traditional clothing.
Today, the fundoshi is less about gender and more about personal preference. Whether worn for cultural events, comfort, or curiosity, it continues to be appreciated by a small but growing number of people looking for a connection to traditional Japanese clothing.
FAQ About the Fundoshi
What is a fundoshi used for?
A fundoshi is a traditional Japanese undergarment worn by men for centuries. It was used as everyday underwear, workwear, and also during festivals or religious ceremonies.
Do Japanese people still wear fundoshi?
Most Japanese people no longer wear fundoshi as daily underwear. However, it is still worn during traditional festivals, cultural events, and by people interested in traditional clothing.
Is a fundoshi comfortable?
Many people consider the fundoshi comfortable because it is lightweight, breathable, and made from natural fabrics like cotton. Its simple design allows good airflow, which makes it suitable for warm climates.
What is the difference between a fundoshi and modern underwear?
A fundoshi is made from a single piece of cloth that is wrapped and tied around the body. Modern underwear, such as briefs or boxers, is usually sewn into a fixed shape with elastic bands.
How do you tie a fundoshi?
The tying method depends on the type of fundoshi, but most styles involve wrapping the fabric around the waist and passing it between the legs. With a little practice, the process becomes simple and quick.
