What is Obiiwai?

Obiiwai (celebration of pregnancy), a tradition passed down through generations, is a ceremony performed on the Day of the Dog in the fifth month of pregnancy. It involves wrapping a maternity belly band around the abdomen to celebrate the pregnancy and praying at a shrine or temple for a safe delivery.

The maternity belly band is also called an "Iwata-obi," named after the wish for a strong and healthy child, like a rock ("iwa"). It is worn directly on the skin to protect the mother and fetus and pray for a safe delivery.

The fifth month of pregnancy marks the entry into the stable period, offering a sense of relief.

Performing the Obiiwai can help alleviate anxieties about childbirth and make the birth feel more real.

For a pregnancy celebration, a gentle touch from

Hare to Kurasu Original "Obiiwai Set"

The Day of the Dog and Dogs

The Day of the Dog is considered auspicious because dogs have long been associated with easy births, symbolizing safe delivery. "Day of the Dog" occurs two to three times a month, roughly every 12 days, according to the zodiac cycle.

Furthermore, dogs have a long history of living with humans and are believed to protect children and ward off evil spirits. The use of "inuhariko" (papier-mâché dog figurines) is also a type of talisman, serving as a charm for children.

Original material of silk wool with air pockets

 "[Kinugasane]" is a fabric woven with silk and wool in a textured pattern. The inner side is smooth silk, and the outer side is insulating wool, making it comfortable against the skin year-round.
The air layer created within the fabric prevents stuffiness and chills from sweat in summer, and maintains warmth and appropriate skin moisture in winter.

Who prepares the maternity belly band?

In the past, the bride's family would send a maternity belly band to wish for the health and safe delivery of their daughter and grandchild, but nowadays there are no specific rules about who prepares it. Sometimes the parents of either side prepare it, or the couple buys it themselves. Recently, some shrines provide it when you request a prayer for a safe delivery.

In recent years, there are many types and materials, such as belly band wraps and panty types. They are popular items for pre-birth celebrations and gifts because they can be used as a spare for washing and for a long time even after childbirth.

As a note of caution when giving gifts during mid-pregnancy, it is not recommended to give baby items or gifts for the baby. Gifts for the baby or baby items should be prepared only after receiving news of a safe delivery and confirming that both mother and child are healthy.

▼Other Recommended Items 　

▲＜Maternity Belly Comfort Set＞Kurashikinu

A set of "Maternity Harapan Short Type" with silk inside and wool outside, and "[Kinugasane] Maternity Haramaki" knitted from a fluffy original material.
The gentleness of silk and wool will warm both your body and soul.

It is recommended for personal use as well as a gift for loved ones.