The Japanese view the kimono as a work of art, to be presented like a painting. This is what makes kimonos such valuable and coveted collectors’ items which are admired at exhibitions all over the world. Today, wearing a kimono documents the close bonds with nine centuries of Japanese culture and tradition.

Very few children’s kimonos have been handed down, and most of them are worn-out and dirty. This is not the case with the samples on display: not only beautiful and colourful but also exceptionally well preserved, they are a wonderful testament to the great love of parents for their children.

A slideshow and videos on the subject of children’s kimonos put the visitors in the right mood for the exhibition. A kimono competition challenges the creativity and imagination of the participants, and at the weekend workshops children from 6 years of age can make a doll’s kimono or fold origami.