Aiaigasa [相合傘] is a Japanese word that literally means sharing an umbrella, but its meaning is much deeper and more romantic than some might imagine. In this article, we will talk about this gesture called aiaigasa.
In the West, it is common to open a car door for a lady, lend a coat, or even walk on the outer side of the sidewalk. In Japan, one of the gestures that most impresses women is the famous aiaigasa.
The aiaigasa is nothing more than the gesture of sharing an umbrella with someone who forgot one to avoid that person getting wet. This is very common during the return from school or work. Friends can do this, but when two people of the opposite sex share an umbrella, a romance might be in the air.
The word aiai [相合] means doing things together, while gasa [傘] comes from kasa which means umbrella, parasol, or things like that. Since its pronunciation is aiai, it reminds of the word love in Japanese which is ai [愛], giving it a romantic meaning.
That is, aiaigasa [アイアイ傘] can literally mean umbrella of love.
It's very romantic to see a couple or person with romantic interest sharing an umbrella in Japan. The archaic meaning of aiai [相合] also conveys the idea of being equal with the other person, becoming a sign for the couple to stay together.
Many girls forget their umbrella on purpose during the summer on a rainy day in hopes that a guy will share his umbrella with her. If he does, it's one of the first gestures and signs that the two might start dating soon.
Aiaigasa - Writing the couple's names on the umbrella
Some people draw an umbrella with their name and the name of their crush underneath one on each side. Just like some people do by writing their name and the name of the loved one in some heart.
There are thousands of anime and dramas that depict the aiaigasa and you probably have seen it somewhere. Always to bring your umbrella on a rainy day to share with your crush.
Japanese women appreciate this get wet in the rain.
It seems like a simple gesture here in the West, but in Japan it is something iconic. I hope you enjoyed this little article, if you did, share it with your friends and leave your comments. What do you think of the Japanese romantic gesture called aiaigasa?
