Fundoshi in Japan: More Than Just Traditional Underwear

When you hear the word “fundoshi,” you might picture a traditional image of Japan from the past. However, this traditional underwear has a rich historical background and offers health benefits. In recent years, even women’s fundoshi have emerged, attracting renewed interest. This article explores the history, types, health benefits, and festivals where participants wear fundoshi.

What is Fundoshi?

Fundoshi is a traditional Japanese undergarment for men, consisting of a long strip of cloth wrapped around the waist and between the legs to provide support and hygiene. Despite its simplicity, it has been used for centuries in Japanese history.

Types of Fundoshi

There are several types of fundoshi, including:

Rokushaku Fundoshi	A long, narrow cloth wrapped around the waist, covering the buttocks. It is the most traditional style.
Echuu Fundoshi	A more modern and easy-to-wear type that is folded and tied around the waist.
Mokko Fundoshi	A type of fundoshi that can be tied at the sides with strings. It is easy to wear and does not have a front flap, making it comfortable under pants. Its shape resembles briefs, making it a great introduction to fundoshi for beginners.
Kuroneko Fundoshi	A fundoshi that only covers the crotch area, resembling a bikini in appearance.

History of Fundoshi

The history of fundoshi dates back to the Kofun period (around 1,400 years ago), where it was already used as underwear. Archaeological discoveries include clay figures (haniwa) depicting men and sumo wrestlers wearing fundoshi.

During the Edo period, fundoshi served as work attire for men, particularly merchants and laborers. However, when foreigners arrived in Japan in the late Edo and Meiji periods, they were shocked by men wearing fundoshi in public, considering it indecent. As a result, the Meiji government issued regulations against exposing too much skin in public, leading to a decline in fundoshi’s popularity.

After World War II, the U.S. occupation authorities (GHQ) viewed Echuu Fundoshi as a symbol of militarism. As a result, Western-style underwear like briefs and trunks became more common, and fundoshi use sharply declined.

Benefits and Health Effects of Fundoshi

Health Benefits

Improved blood circulation	Since fundoshi does not tighten the groin area, it promotes better blood flow and helps reduce cold extremities.
Better sleep quality	The lack of pressure on the body reduces stress, making it an excellent choice for those struggling with insomnia.
Holistic health effects	Wearing fundoshi stimulates pressure points around the waist and groin, promoting overall well-being.
Male fertility benefits	Fundoshi provides better ventilation and reduces heat buildup, which can improve sperm production, making it beneficial for men trying to conceive.

Women’s Fundoshi

Recently, fundoshi designed for women (also called fundoshi panties) have gained popularity. Since they do not restrict blood and lymph flow, they can help alleviate cold sensitivity and menstrual pain. The lightweight design provides a barely-there feeling, making them an excellent choice for sleepwear. Many modern designs resemble regular underwear, making them easy to adopt.

Festivals Featuring Fundoshi

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はだか祭り

In Japan, several traditional “Hadaka Matsuri” (naked festivals) feature participants wearing fundoshi. Here are some of the most famous ones:

Hadaka Matsuri （Aichi prefecture）	A lively festival where men in “shoubu fundoshi” (competition fundoshi) fiercely clash while carrying a mikoshi (portable shrine).
Saidaiji Eyo（Okayama prefecture）	A competitive festival where men wearing fundoshi battle to become the “lucky man” by grabbing a sacred object.
Kokusekiji Sominsai（Iwate prefecture）	A sacred midnight ritual where men endure the cold in fundoshi as part of a purification ceremony.

These festivals are not just unusual spectacles; they are deeply rooted in traditions of warding off misfortune and praying for health and prosperity.

Fundoshi in the Game “Ghost of Tsushima”

For those who have played the game Ghost of Tsushima, fundoshi might already be a familiar item.
By soaking in all the hidden hot springs in the game, players can obtain the “Fundoshi” armor. This armor makes the character completely silent while moving, making it an excellent choice for stealth gameplay.

In the game, players can unlock the fundoshi by finding all the hidden hot springs. There are a total of 18 hot springs, and visiting them also increases the player’s maximum health. To locate all of them, progressing to the upper region in the story is necessary.

Fundoshi Q&A

Final thoughts about Fundoshi

Fundoshi, a traditional Japanese undergarment, is being reevaluated for its health benefits and comfort. With advantages like improved circulation, better sleep, and potential fertility benefits, it offers more than just cultural value. Women’s fundoshi is also gaining popularity for its positive effects on circulation and relaxation.

Additionally, fundoshi remains a central part of Japan’s traditional festivals, preserving its historical and cultural significance. If you’re curious, why not try wearing a fundoshi and experience its unique benefits for yourself?