うなじ

Body part

うなじ refers to the back of the neck, particularly the area just below the hairline.

Cultural note

In traditional Japanese aesthetics, the うなじ (nape) is considered an attractive area, especially for women. The visibility of the nape when wearing 着物(きもの) or 浴衣(ゆかた) is part of their appeal. Geisha traditionally accentuate this area with makeup.

Writing

• Usually written in hiragana
• Can be written as 項(うなじ) but this is uncommon

Related words

• 首(くび) - neck
• 襟足(えりあし) - hairline at the back of the neck