Jinbei

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Image:Jimbei.jpg
Takumi wearing a jimbei

A jinbei (甚平; also jimbei; alternative spelling 甚兵衛), sometimes referred to as hippari, is a kind of traditional Japanese clothing worn by men and boys during the summer. It is usually worn as a form of pyjamas or house wear. Normally, a male Japanese wears it only within his own home, or outside the home when he is in close proximity to his home (for example, to collect the mail or go on a local errand close to his house). Sometimes jinbei are used as substitute for yukata during a summer festival.

Jinbei sets consist of a top and matching shorts. Traditional jinbei are made from hemp or cotton and dyed a uniform color, often blue or green, though modern jinbei frequently have prints ranging from simple textures or lines to complicated and colorful floral patterns. The top resembles short-sleeved or sleeveless jacket that falls to the hips. It ties closed both inside and outside the jacket. Traditional jimbei are often worn as a substitute for yukata when attending summer festivals, typically by men and boys but also frequently by young women. Ladies' jinbei tend to be more brightly coloured and often feature prints of popular culture characters.