hachimaki

A hachimaki is a narrow cloth headband traditionally worn in Japan around the forehead. Typically made of cotton or a cotton-blend fabric, it is tied at the back of the head and worn to absorb sweat, keep hair and sweat from the eyes, or as a decorative or symbolic sign of resolve. The width is usually about 4 to 6 centimeters, with a length long enough to wrap and tie securely.

The term hachimaki is believed to derive from hachi (helmet or head) and maki (wrap), reflecting its original function of wrapping around the head in conjunction with helmet or hair. In historical use, samurai and soldiers wore headbands to secure their hair and to display a symbol of courage or determination. The practice later spread to laborers, students, athletes, and festival participants.

Designs often feature kanji or symbols, such as 必勝 (certain victory), 頑張れ (do your best), or 世界平和 (world peace), printed or painted on the cloth. Modern hachimaki may be plain or patterned, in colors that suit the wearer’s purpose or team.

Today hachimaki are worn during sports events, martial arts training, festivals, or exams, and are also used as fashion items or souvenirs. In popular culture, they are common in anime and film as a visual cue for a character’s perseverance.