What do Miko wear?

Asked by: Amber Richards

The traditional attire of a miko is a pair of red hakama (緋袴) (divided, pleated trousers), a white kosode (a predecessor of the kimono), and some white or red hair ribbons. In Shinto, the color white symbolizes purity. The garment put over the kosode during Kagura dances is called a chihaya (千早).

What does a shrine maiden wear?

Miko, or “shrine maidens,” typically wear red hakama trousers. Miko are not ordained priestesses but young unmarried women trained to assist with a variety of tasks.

Can miko be male?

A male miko is called a geki, a kannagi or fugeki (all are gender-neutral terms).

Can a miko marry?

Miko also dance special ceremonial dances, known as miko-mai (巫女舞い), and offer fortune telling or omikuji (お神籤). They must be unmarried virgins; however, if they wish, they can marry and become priestesses themselves. Miko are often younger relatives of Shinto priests, such as daughters or granddaughters.

Is miko a virgin?

Purity is extremely important in Shinto, and for many types of miko sexual purity was essential, so in many miko traditions it was necessary that they were virgins. As with most things in Japan however, there were exceptions.

Why do miko wear red and white?

The traditional attire of a miko is a pair of red hakama (緋袴) (divided, pleated trousers), a white kosode (a predecessor of the kimono), and some white or red hair ribbons. In Shinto, the color white symbolizes purity.

Is miko a male or female name?

female

Miko is a given name found in several cultures. It can be a Japanese female name. It can be an eastern European name, with origins in Slovakia, sometimes short for Mikolaj.

Is Yae Miko a shrine maiden?

Like the rest of Inazuma, it’s clear that Yae Miko is heavily inspired by Japan, as Miko means ‘shrine maiden’ in Japanese. According to Mihoyo’s description of Yae Miko, “her elegant and beautiful appearance belies an intelligent and cunning personality.