Yukata Contest

In my novel Orchards, Kana is presented with a yukata by her grandmother. In my novel Ash, Caitlin recalls the pair of yukata that Mie's grandmother had made for them. It's hard to write a novel set in Japan in summer without mentioning yukata. It's hard to imagine summer in Japan without yukata, the summer kimono, worn especially for bon odori dancing, fireworks and festivals.

This year I joined a local dance circle, and my dance teacher cajoled me into entering a yukata contest at a big temple festival in Fujisawa. I have several ordinary yukata of my own, but members of the circle suggested one of the teacher's yukata with a willow and umbrella design. Another member loaned a linen obi. The teacher's daughter made me a hairpin with handblown glass. They helped me dress, tied the obi, put up my hair and I was ready to go.

Up on stage, contestants were asked questions--details about their yukata and obi. I had practiced a few responses, and fortunately they didn't throw me any tough questions.
This man had made his own yukata and urged more men to enjoy wearing yukata in summer.
Some of the other yukata and obi were stunning. I loved this hand-painted obi.
Much to my surprise my name was announced for first runner up.
I was presented with a sash, a gift and a cash award.
And photos followed.
And more photos.
And after the contest, the music started, and huge crowds danced the tanko bushi and other Obon dances around the dais. It was a crazy, fun evening.

My dance teacher first learned to dance in her hometown of Kesennuma, a city in northeast Miyagi Prefecture that was ravaged by the March 11 tsunami. As I've told her, I already know where I'm sending my prize money.