The Fundoshi

The fundoshi is a traditional Japanese undergarment, essentially a loincloth, historically worn by men. Made from a long strip of cotton or silk, it was the standard form of underwear in Japan until the mid-20th century. Beyond its practical use, the fundoshi holds cultural significance, often associated with festivals and rituals. In contemporary times, the fundoshi has seen a resurgence, where it’s embraced as a symbol of traditional masculinity and sensuality. Events like Japan’s “Naked Festivals” (Hadaka Matsuri) feature participants wearing fundoshi, celebrating purification and communal spirit. These festivals, blending Shinto and Buddhist rituals, have become emblematic of a connection to heritage and an expression of identity.