Hikitate Eboshi (boshi), refers to a type of hat worn throughout historical Japan which was uniformly black in color. The name translates to “bird hat” because it resembles the feathers of a black bird. Over time, the style and shape of the eboshi developed along with the many different hairstyles, to show one’s rank within Japanese society. As the bushi rose in power and stature, so did the eboshi they used in daily life. Typically the eboshi was only worn after “gempuku” (the ceremony of passage to adulthood – typically the age of 12). Eboshi-oya (a person who puts an eboshi on a young man’s head on his ceremony of attaining manhood), Eboshi-go (a person who has an eboshi put on his head on his ceremony of attaining manhood). In general, taller “tate-eboshi” were worn by higher ranking samurai, while the smaller eboshi were worn by inferior samurai, officials, standard-bearers and other lower rank professions.
The Hikitate-Eboshi is similar to the nae-eboshi (a soft hat used by commoners), but were adapted to the warrior class as they rose in power. Much like the tate-eboshi (worn by nobles), it is a tall hat which stands up straight (20-40 CM tall) or up and back. Showing a humbled status between commoner and noble, this eboshi was more pliable; and it could be worn under the kabuto (helmet). This Hikitate-Eboshi made it more favorable by the warrior samurai class, and quickly became known as the “samurai eboshi”. Over time the Hikitate-Eboshi incorporated white ties around the brim, which would help hold the hat secure while the warrior galloped on horseback or engaged in battle. Our samurai clothing and accessories are featured in many movies, tv series, documentaries, including the docudrama “Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan” by Netflix & the Smithsonian Channel.
Features: Hikitate-Eboshi
- Traditional design
- One size fits all – Can be adjusted by wearer
- Made from linen or mesh (optional)
| Our skilled katchû-shi (armorers) at the Iron Mountain Armory will need at least 1 to 2 weeks, depending on options selected, and other scheduled orders, for the custom handcrafting of this item. |
| For more information, please review our Order Options Explained, Glossary Terms or FAQ Pages. You can also Contact Us directly. We are always happy to be of service. |
Great Value!
These hats are impossible to find outside of Japan and inside Japan they start at about $80 each. Fantastic price to add some historical culture when wearing your suit!
I look the part
Unfortunately the hat was not made in the authentic style. Mine arrived with a black cotton lining under the black mesh when it should have been an open, black lacquered, stiff black mesh, (as in the illustration), where you can see the wearer’s head through the mesh, and not like a night cap that flops down the side of your head. In the way it was made for me the hat does not stand up as shown in the picture. It flops down like a large Beret. I would personally not recommend this if you want accuracy. I feel like I should have received the hat in the illustration because that’s what I believed that I was paying for. In the hat I received the stitching as well did not line up. Very disappointed. Very.
Hello Sam. Thank you for taking the time to post your review. We’ve contacted you several times to assist you but have not received your response.
If I may direct your attention to the product picture, it clearly shows the Hiktate-Eboshi with a cotton liner and stiff black mesh. If the mesh is folded and falls to the side, you can simply press it back to shape. If there is a defect or issue with your order, we will be happy to replace it, but we need to communicate first. Please feel free to email or call us any time for support.