Kanzashi June

In June, the main kanzashi motifs are weeping willows (yanagi), hydrangea (ajisai) and sometimes also gardenia (kuchinashi). Willow is a traditional image associated with geisha, because of their subtlety, strength, and grace. June is the rainy season in Japan, and therefore willow (a water-loving tree) and the washy blue of hydrangea are appropriate.

In this month, most maiko wear beautiful willow kanzashi with delicate pinks or vibrant reds. Crystal raindrops hang amongst the leaves, and often you will see paper umbrellas in these fresh looking kanzashi. Because willow is a natural dangling plant, this kanzashi imitates its look by letting the long folded petals fall in front of the maiko's face. Very long dangling kanzashi are reserved for the most junior maiko, but shorter versions may be worn by all junior and new senior maiko.