WORKPEDIA JAPAN!: Dressing for Success in Nagano - Where We Call Home

Key Concepts

• 着物 (Kimono): Traditional Japanese garment, central to the video’s theme.
• 着物インストラクター (Kimono Instructor): Sharonama’s profession, teaching kimono wearing and dressing.
• 着物体験 (Kimono Experience): Providing opportunities for people to wear and experience kimono.
• 文化伝承 (Cultural Transmission): The act of passing on Japanese culture, particularly through kimono.
• フィリピン (Philippines): Sharonama’s home country and location of her work.
• 着付け (Kituke): The art of wearing a kimono.

Introduction of Sharonama and Her Work

Sharonama, from Davao City, Philippines, works as a kimono instructor and dresser. She emphasizes that her role extends beyond simply teaching 着付け (kituke) – the art of wearing a kimono – to nurturing her students, comparing it to raising children. She highlights the importance of caring for her students alongside the enjoyment of teaching. A significant motivation for her work stems from being gifted a large collection of kimonos by someone who no longer wore them, prompting her desire to master all aspects of kimono wearing. She believes kimono is one of the most important aspects of Japanese culture.

Overcoming Initial Doubts & Encouragement

Sharonama initially hesitated due to the common perception that kimono instructors are Japanese. However, her teacher reassured her that despite potential limitations in her Japanese language skills, she could still become a wonderful instructor, stating that her ability to express herself was sufficient. This encouragement deeply resonated with her. She states, “シャロンさんは日本語の力は少し足りない部分もあるかもしれ[音楽]ないけれど、あれのままで表現するしても素敵な先生に なれるよ” (Sharonama’s Japanese ability may be a little lacking, but even expressing herself as she is, she can become a wonderful teacher).

Kimono Experience & Photography

Beyond instruction, Sharonama offers 着物体験 (kimono experience) services. She explains that people want to wear kimono to feel more connected to Japanese culture and to understand how to wear it properly. She also engages in photography, initially using only her mobile phone to capture her Filipino friends wearing kimonos she styled. She recalls the joy and smiles of her friends as a key motivator for pursuing photography further. She mentions that most of her friends only wore kimono once.

Collaboration with Nishiguchi-san

Sharonama collaborates with Nishiguchi-san, a fisherman, who assists with hair styling for clients wearing kimono. Nishiguchi-san has a long-standing relationship with many clients, having styled their hair for events like 七五三 (shichigosan) (a traditional rite of passage for children), graduation ceremonies, and coming-of-age ceremonies. Nishiguchi-san enjoys witnessing the growth of the children she styles over the years. She is introduced as, “私の仕事の仲間漁師の西義えさんです” (My work colleague is Nishiguchi Yoshie-san, a fisherman).

Cultural Exchange & Global Outreach

Sharonama’s work is praised for extending kimono culture beyond Japan, with someone thanking her for promoting Japanese culture globally: “日本人だけじゃなくて海外の人にも着けてあげて、それをまた世界に広めてくれてるので、もう日本文化を発信していただいてありがとうございます” (Not only to Japanese people but also to people overseas, you dress them and spread it around the world, thank you for promoting Japanese culture).

Sharonama’s Studio & Personal Connection

Sharonama’s studio, created by her husband, serves as a space for lessons and practice. She describes it as a cherished location filled with memories and stories. She states, “ここは私の大切の[音楽]場所です。いろんな思い出が たくさんし、物語もいっぱい[音楽]染まっています” (This is my precious place. It’s filled with many memories and stories). Despite not being Japanese herself, she is deeply committed to sharing the beauty and correctness of kimono culture with the world: “私日本人じゃないけど 着物の正しくの文化をもっと[音楽] たくさんの人世界には伝えていきたいなっ て思っています” (I am not Japanese, but I want to share the correct kimono culture with more people around the world).

Conclusion

Sharonama’s story exemplifies a passionate dedication to preserving and promoting Japanese culture through kimono. Her work transcends simple instruction, encompassing cultural experience, artistic expression through photography, and collaborative relationships. She demonstrates that cultural transmission is not limited by nationality, but driven by genuine enthusiasm and a desire to share beauty and tradition with the world. Her journey highlights the power of encouragement and the importance of finding joy in connecting people with cultural heritage.