Ichimatsu is a pattern in which two-colored squares are arranged alternately.

Recently, this pattern has been attracting attention as a symbolic pattern of popular Japanese anime characters.
It is also famous for being adopted as the official emblem of the Tokyo Olympics as a traditional pattern that symbolizes Japan.

In other countries, it is popularly known as a checkered flag or a checkered flag from the flag used on the board of the checker or in the race.

Around the 18th century, when a popular Kabuki actor named Sanogawa Ichimatsu appeared wearing a stage costume with a pattern of white and navy blue arranged in different colors, it became popular among women at that time. It is said that it became a pandemic and became known as “Ichimatsu”.

Meaning of pattern

The pattern in which the squares are lined up without interruption has the meaning of prosperity of descendants and business expansion. For this reason, the checkered pattern has long been used for family crests and has been favored by many as an auspicious pattern suitable for gifts.