The white characters on the yukata are kotobuki 寿 (the large character) and fuku 福.
Kotobuki is a traditional Japanese symbol often associated with happiness, long life, and prosperity. It is commonly used during festive occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and other significant life events.
Fuku means happiness, good fortune, or blessing. It is a widely recognized character in Japanese (and also Chinese) culture, especially during celebrations like the New Year, when it represents the hope for a joyful and prosperous year ahead.
Together, these two characters are a beautiful reminder of values deeply rooted in Japanese culture: reverence for life, community, and the blessings that come with it. They express a heartfelt appreciation for life and all the good it brings.
Yukata is the garment worn throughout the stay, even in our restaurants, during activities and during certain spa treatments. If you wish to keep your yukata as a memory and a reminder of the importance of creating balance in life through regular recovery, it is available for purchase at the reception when checking out.
Many people confuse yukata with kimono. Yukata 浴衣 means "bathrobe" in Japanese and is a simpler summer version of the kimono. There are different types of kimono, and yukata is one of them. Yukata is usually made of cotton and was originally used as a type of morning robe.
There are also other differences between yukata and kimono. Yukata has shorter sleeves than kimono and does not have a lining like the kimono. Kimonos involve many accessories, such as a complex "obi" belt, undergarments, "tabi" toe socks, and lacquered wooden sandals called "zori". In cold weather, a haori jacket is worn over the kimono. Yukata is easily put on together with a streamlined belt called an "obi," and it is often paired with wooden "geta" sandals.
Yukata is traditionally considered unisex and can be worn by both men and women. However, in Japan, there are certain differences in patterns and colors that may vary depending on whether it is intended for men or women. Men tend to wear simpler and more subtle patterns, while women wear more colorful and decorative yukata. At Yasuragi everyone wears the same patterns to create a calm and peaceful impression aimed at soothing the senses.
During the Heian period (794-1185), yukata was worn in connection with bathing. Since the fabric easily absorbs sweat and is well-ventilated, people started using yukata after bathing and also as nightwear. Nowadays, people wear yukata on hot summer days during various traditional events, such as the summer festival Matsuri, or when visiting an onsen ryokan (an inn with hot springs/baths) just like the Japanese bath at Yasuragi.
