Color is like a mirror reflecting culture, teaching us about a nation’s history, values, and its connection with nature. Japan has its own unique traditional colors that delicately express the changes of the seasons, among which “Mikan-iro (みかんいろ – Mikan-iro)” is known as a particularly vivid and heart-stirring hue. This article delves into the warmth of this shade that reflects Japanese aesthetics, exploring the meaning and history of Mikan-iro, as well as how this color can be applied in design.
About Mikan-iro (みかんいろ – Mikan-iro)
Mikan-iro (みかんいろ – Mikan-iro), as its name suggests, refers to the vibrant orange color reminiscent of the mikan (みかん – Mikan) fruit. This color is deeply ingrained in the Japanese sensibility, widely used in traditional clothing, crafts, and contemporary designs. Mikan-iro symbolizes energy and vitality, believed to brighten the viewer’s mood. It is also known as a color that stimulates appetite and is frequently used in logos and packaging designs for restaurants.
The History of Mikan-iro
Mikan-iro has been part of Japanese color culture since the Heian period. The aristocrats of that time preferred to incorporate the beauty of nature into their clothing and cherished colors inspired by seasonal plants and fruits. Mikan-iro, mimicking the color of fruits like persimmons and mikans, was one of these colors. By the Edo period, vibrant-colored kimonos became popular among the common folk, making Mikan-iro a widely beloved color.
Mikan-iro Color Codes
To accurately reproduce Mikan-iro in digital and web design, knowledge of color codes is essential. Below are the typical color codes representing Mikan-iro:
- HEX: #F08300
- RGB: R:240 G:131 B:0
- CMYK: C:6 M:61 Y:95 K:0
The Western Name for Mikan-iro
In the West, Mikan-iro is generally known as “Tangerine.” This name comes from the tangerine (Mandarin orange), a fruit of a similar orange color, giving a bright and vivid impression. The color is popularly used under the name Tangerine in various fields such as interior design and fashion.
Conclusion on Mikan-iro
The traditional Japanese color, Mikan-iro, with its vividness and warmth, continues to enchant many people. Loved throughout history and still utilized in modern design and art, this color symbolizes the richness of Japanese culture. In the digital age, using color codes to recreate this traditional hue allows us to share Japanese beauty worldwide. Incorporating Mikan-iro can bring vitality and warmth to any work or product, leaving a bright impression on all who see it.
