This week we will be exploring the meaning and the inspiration behind the breathtaking Japanese inspired Senō-Ji apparel range. This breathtaking design is inspired by the oldest and most famous temples in Tokyo named the Sensō-Ji. This peaceful, tranquil and absolutely exquisite design is a visual representation of the peace that entering a sacred temple instills in the human mind. Let's now explore this wearable work of art and the place that inspired it.
The Sensō-ji also named the Asakusa Kannon Temple is a Buddhist temple and also one of the most colourful and most renowned temples in Japan. The story behind the Sensō-Ji is that two brothers pulled a statue depicting the Goddess of mercy named Kannon, out of the Sumida River, and even though they put the statue back in the river it is said that the statue always came back to them.
Therefore the temple was erected nearby to honour the Goddess, Kannon. The brothers discovered the statue in the year of 628 and the temple was completed in 645 making it the oldest standing temple in Tokyo.
On the front of the tops and on the blankets there is a depiction of a komainu sided by Buddha, the komainu is often placed outside of temples in order to ward off evil spirits and ill-intent. The back of the Tops features a beautiful portrait of the face of Buddha. The sleeves in this range features a depiction of koi fish, Koi fish are considered a symbol of good luck and are associated with strength in adversity and strength of purpose.
The design is decorated with cherry blossoms, which can be found around the Sensō-ji temple and Lotus flowers which are a symbol of purity, enlightenment, self-regeneration and rebirth. All these elements come together to in essence capture the elements, beauty and meaning behind the Sensō-ji temple.
We hope you love this design just as much as we do!
-Lunafide Team <3