Heian

The Heian Period

The Heian period began in 794 A.D. At the time of the Heian period, Kyoto become Japan's new capital. The Heian court assumed importance as the seat of cultural life. Japanese kimonos especially colorful kimono were popular with Japanese women.

In 794 the Japanese imperial court moved north of Nara to Heian - kyo. Heian means the capital of peace and tranquility. Heian was later renamed to the city of Kyoto 11 centuries later. 

During the early Heian era, Japan maintained the relationship with T'ang China (Tang under the emperors Kammu (781-806) and Saga (809-23). Then, as the power of the emperors began to wane, one family of courtiers, the Fujiwara, came to dominate the affairs of state. After 894, communication with China was suspended, and the period from 897 to 1185 is referred to as the late Heian, or Fujiwara, period. Japan then sought to develop her own artistic spirit and the evolution of textile designs and styles of kimono began.

Life at the Heian court was without doubt one of the most refined and sophisticated in the world at that time. In this luxurious setting the Heian court nobles wore long trailing robes called sokutai.

Heian Period Kimono | The Tale of Genji | Heian Kimono | Lower Class Japanese Kimono