Koromogae (Seasonal Clothing Change)

What Is Koromogae?

October 1st marks "Koromogae," the seasonal switch from summer to winter clothing in Japan. This long-standing custom traces back to "Koi," a Heian-era court ritual for changing garments with the seasons.

From a Court Ritual to a Nationwide Custom

Koromogae originated as a practice imported from China that became an annual court ritual during the Heian period, later spreading among ordinary people as well.

• Origin: traced to "Koi," a garment-changing ritual observed in the Heian-era imperial court
• Formalization: during the Meiji era, government offices and schools formally designated June 1st and October 1st as the dates for switching uniforms
• Modern practice: the custom continues today in school and workplace uniforms, storefront window displays, and other seasonal markers

Timing Varies by Region and Climate

While October 1st serves as the nationwide benchmark, the actual timing of koromogae shifts depending on regional climate. In recent years, with rising temperatures, many schools and workplaces have started adjusting the timing more flexibly.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Sort through your closet and swap out summer clothes for winter ones
• Use the koromogae moment to reconsider clothes you no longer wear
• If your school or workplace has uniforms, take note of the seasonal switch
• Pay a little extra attention to your health during this seasonal transition

Every Wardrobe Switch Marks the Quiet Turning of the Seasons

Each time the contents of our closets change, we feel the seasons shifting beneath our fingertips. October 1st is a day to pack away the last of summer and prepare to welcome autumn moving toward winter.