Kigurumi facts for kids

Costumed characters, also known as kigurumi, at a theme park in Korea.

A kigurumi (pronounced kee-goo-ROO-mee) is a special type of costume from Japan. It's worn by a performer who acts like a cartoon or fictional character. The word "kigurumi" in Japanese means "wearing a stuffed toy." Think of it like dressing up as your favorite cuddly animal or cartoon friend!

Kigurumi are often seen as very cute and fun. They are a big part of Japanese pop culture and even influence fashion, especially in places like Harajuku.

What is a Kigurumi?

A kigurumi is more than just a costume; it's a way to bring a character to life. These costumes are usually full-body outfits. They make the person wearing them look like a large, soft toy. Many kigurumi are based on popular characters. For example, you might see kigurumi of Hello Kitty, Pikachu, or characters from Studio Ghibli like Totoro.

Different Kinds of Kigurumi

There are two main types of kigurumi you might see:

• Character Kigurumi: These are the costumes worn by professional performers. You often see them at theme parks, like the characters walking around Disneyland. They are designed to look exactly like famous cartoon or video game characters. These performers entertain crowds and pose for photos.

• Fashion Kigurumi: These are more like pajamas or loungewear. People wear them for fun, at parties, or even just around the house. They are super comfy and often look like cute animals such as pandas, unicorns, or dinosaurs. These are popular for sleepovers or just showing off your playful side.

Where Did Kigurumi Come From?

The idea of kigurumi started in Japan. It grew out of the country's love for cute characters and mascots. Japan has many mascots for everything from cities to companies. These mascots often wear kigurumi costumes to appear friendly and fun.

Over time, kigurumi became popular beyond just mascots. People started wearing them as a fashion statement. The comfy, oversized style appealed to many, especially young people. It became a way to express creativity and a love for cute things.

Kigurumi in Pop Culture

Kigurumi have become famous all over the world. You might see them at:

• Anime and Comic Conventions: Many fans wear kigurumi to these events. It's a fun way to show off their favorite characters.
• Music Videos and Performances: Some musicians and dancers use kigurumi in their acts. It adds a unique and playful touch.
• Social Media: Kigurumi are very popular online. People share photos and videos of themselves in their costumes. This helps spread the trend even further.

Why Are Kigurumi So Popular?

Kigurumi are loved for several reasons:

• Comfort: They are usually made from soft, cozy materials. This makes them very comfortable to wear.
• Cuteness: The designs are often very adorable and charming. This appeals to people who love cute things.
• Fun and Playfulness: Wearing a kigurumi is a way to be silly and have fun. It lets people embrace their inner child.
• Expression: They allow people to express their personality and interests. You can choose a kigurumi that matches your favorite animal or character.

Kigurumi are a unique and fun part of Japanese culture. They show how costumes can be more than just clothes. They can be a way to entertain, express yourself, and bring joy to others.