Hachimaki a symbol of support

Keeping sweat off your face is generally what headbands are all about.

But for Japanese football fans, hachimaki (headbands) have a far more important role.

They are traditionally worn as a symbol of effort, courage and determination.

In more recent times, Japanese sports fans have started wearing them to show support for their national teams, and it is hoped thousands of people will be wearing them at Japan’s Fifa Women's World Cup game against Costa Rica, kicking off at Dunedin Stadium at 5pm today.

University of Otago Japanese Students’ Association president Haruna Ohhara said football fans would be able to make their own hachimaki today at the university’s Link building at 2pm and at the university’s English Language Centre (next to the stadium) at 3pm.

They are typically made with white cloth, and are decorated with inspirational slogans such as "Nippon ichi" (the best of Japan) and the rising sun motif.

Miss Ohhara said the match gave Japanese people living in Dunedin, a rare opportunity to show off their culture.

"We don’t get to show support for Japanese teams in Dunedin very often.

"So we think it’s a really special chance and a special experience that the Japanese team are coming to play.

"Hopefully, it will be just like a game at home," she said.

john.lewis@odt.co.nz