The chonmage is a Japanese traditional hairstyle worn by men during the Edo period (1601 to 1868). It started during the Asuka period (538 to 710). Aristocratic people in the period started tying up their hair when they wore their hats. They wore topknots because it kept cooler their heads under the hats. It's said this was the origin of the chonmage.

During the Kamakura period (1185 to 1333) warriors wearing helmets started shaving their head from the front to the back and tying up the left parts as topknots. This style also helped keep their head cool while wearing helmets. During the Edo period, this hairstyle was very popular among men. The chonmage had became an identity for all men and also showed their social status or occupations. During the Meiji era (1868 to 1912), the Meiji government recommended that men cut the chonmage and adopted Western-style of hairstyles. Eventually, the chonmage died out even though sumou wrestlers still wear it.

Since my friend from Texas shared an interesting short video of chonmage, I'd like to share it with you here.

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