What on earth is Shibumi you may ask?

Shibui (the adjective), shibumi (the noun), or shibusa (noun) are Japanese words that refer to a particular aesthetic of simple, subtle, and unobtrusive beauty. Like other Japanese aesthetics terms, such as iki and wabi-sabi, shibui can apply to a wide variety of subjects.

The concept of shibusa was introduced to the West in August and September 1960, in publications of the American magazine House Beautiful.

Originating in the Muromachi period (1336–1573), by the beginnings of the Edo period (1615–1868), the term gradually had begun to refer to a pleasing aesthetic. The people of Edo expressed their tastes in using this term to refer to anything from song to fashion to craftsmanship that was beautiful by being understated, or by being precisely what it was meant to be and not elaborated upon.

Essentially, the aesthetic ideal of shibumi seeks out events, performances, people, or objects that are beautiful in a direct and simple way, without being flashy. In Japanese culture, Shibumi implies ‘a simplicity of spirit; an attitude of refinement without pretension, honesty without apology, beauty without artifice.

Anything that is Shibumi is quiet in refinement, noble and fulfilling in a manner that is not shaped exclusively by analytical thought.

And so – shibumi has come to denote those things that exhibit the very best of everything and nothing: Elegant simplicity. Effortless effectiveness. Understated excellence. Beautiful imperfection.
It has also been claimed that Japanese youth have used the word “shibui” in a way very similar to how we in the west use “cool”. That is, you could say “oh, that guy is so shibui/cool”.

Here at Koiman Enterprises we strive to achieve an essence of Shibumi – by nurturing an appreciation of all things Koi – the fish, their environment and their surroundings.

Please take a look at our Koi Appreciation and Koi Varieties Guides below for further information.