Tsunokakushi

Etymology and meaning

The name combines words for horn and hiding. Some sources suggest this refers to concealing a bride's horns of anger or jealousy to present a virtuous image. Scholars note this may be a folk etymology. The term likely shifted from sumi kakushi, meaning front-hairline hider. Women visiting Buddhist temples historically covered their hairlines. This practice influenced the bridal headwear.

Historical origins

The headdress arose in the Edo period. It was originally worn by women visiting Buddhist temples. Certain sects required visitors to cover their hairlines. This area is known as the corner or edge of the forehead. The style parallels men's fashion where that portion was shaved. A triangular predecessor called tsuno boshi existed since the Heian period. That earlier hat featured a peak pointing from the forehead.

Construction and style

The garment is made from a rectangular piece of cloth. It is typically crafted from white silk to match the bride's formal kimono. The cloth is folded and worn to partially cover the hair. Modern brides often wear wigs underneath the headdress. The style completes the traditional bunkin takashimada hairstyle. This look remains standard for Shinto wedding ceremonies today.

How Tsunokakushi is kept

The bride wears a formal kimono and has her hair styled in the bunkin takashimada. She places the white silk tsunokakushi over her hair or wig. The rectangular cloth is folded to cover the hairline. This completes the traditional Shinto wedding appearance. The headdress sits atop the styled hair during the ceremony.

When and where

It is worn during Shinto wedding ceremonies in Japan. The timing aligns with the main ritual event.

This custom is practiced in Japan. It is associated with Shinto wedding venues and traditions across the country.

What Tsunokakushi means

The headdress symbolizes the concealment of negative qualities. The name implies hiding horns of anger or jealousy. This presents a virtuous image for the marriage. The covering of the hairline also reflects historical temple visitation rules. It signifies modesty and respect within the union.

Who takes part

• The bride: Wears the white silk headdress and formal kimono
• The stylist: Creates the bunkin takashimada hairstyle

Then and now

Modern brides often wear wigs under the headdress. The tradition remains active in Shinto ceremonies. The white silk design continues to match formal kimonos.

On the wedding table

Symbols: The colour white

Questions people ask about Tsunokakushi

See also

Bridal bouquetThe handheld flower arrangement carried by the bride during her wedding ceremony.Shinto weddingA Shinto purification ritual featuring sake sharing and kimono attire held at a shrine or venue.MantillaA lace or silk veil worn over the head and shoulders by women in Spain and Latin AmericaMadisarThe nine-yard sari drape worn by Tamil Brahmin women during weddings and religious rites.

Good reading and sources

• Tsunokakushi on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Wedding customs differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-05.