Japanese hachimaki (headbands) are thin cotton strips tied around the forehead. Originally worn at festivals to ward off evil spirits, they also serve the purpose of keeping hair and perspiration out of the wearer's eyes. hachimaki also help the wearer to gather his/her spirits and show determination and resolve and were worn by samurai under their helmets, kamikaze pilots during World War II, and commonly now by protesters attending demonstrations and by practitioners of martial arts. The slight pressure around the forehead helps to improve concentration and speed of thought. Our Rising Sun hachimaki carry the slogans of "Hisho" (Victory!), "Gokaku" (Success) and "Toukon" (Fighting Spirit). These headbands make ideal gifts for you, your family and friends.
