Kon'e

The Kon'e (袞衣) is a type of formal court robe traditionally worn by the Emperor of Japan. It corresponds to the Chinese gǔnfú (袞服), a ceremonial robe for emperors featuring dragon embroidery, used during major state rituals in ancient China. In Japan, the Kon'e was worn together with the Benkan (冕冠; imperial crown) during important court ceremonies such as the Sokui no rei (即位の礼; Enthronement Ceremony) and the Chōga (朝賀; New Year's imperial audience).

In China, the robe was also known by the classical expression xuányī xūncháng (玄衣纁裳, lit. 'dark robe and red skirt'), referring to its black upper garment and light red skirt. In contrast, the Japanese Kon'e features red garments for both the upper and lower sections. A distinctive characteristic of the Japanese style is the way the mo (裳)—a mid-length ceremonial wrap skirt—is worn over the hakama (袴; traditional trousers), creating a uniquely Japanese configuration of lower-body garments.

The Kon'e remained in use until the enthronement of Emperor Kōmei in 1847. Beginning with Emperor Meiji, the official attire for enthronement ceremonies became the Kōrozen no gohō (黄櫨染御袍; robe dyed in yellow sappanwood).