No robe (karaori). 19th century Japan. Public domain image.

Among the most popular and prominent Japanese motifs are bamboo, pine, cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, maple leaves, peony, camellia, crane, and chidori (plover). Japanese patterns have a hidden meaning. When found on the kimono and other Japanese clothing, they are called wagara. Wagara is a traditional Japanese pattern design that dates back to the 8th century Heian period of Japan. These traditional and historic designs each have a very specific meaning and are often associated with a specific season or occasion. Many of these patterns are inspired by nature. The Seigaiha (Sayagata) pattern is surely one of the most famous in Japan. It represents waves formed by concentric circles creating small arcs, interlocking manji - ancient Buddhist symbols. Seigaiha literally means 'blue sea and waves. It was used to illustrate seas and oceans on maps. Seigaiha is a symbol of water representing surges of good luck.