60578    His words made me think I should cherish our humble event of the New Year Day.

60579    When traveling abroad, we find a kimono very useful at a party.

60580    However, a kimono is bulky and therefore, I recommend to wear it more simply than usual.

60581    For example, I recommend to dress in a kimono only with juban-underwear, kimono, obi-belt and cords, without a kimono-petticoat and undershirt.

60582    It is also good to use socks made of synthetic fiber, which can be easily washed.

60583    The kimono is Japan's traditional costume.

60584    Yukata, a cotton kimono for summer, is good in a hot country.

60585    You can have more opportunities to introduce Japan's traditions in a foreign country if you do not consider kimono-dressing difficult and you learn how to it by yourself from a person who can dress you in it, so that you can dress yourself in it abroad.

60586    The world judo championships, comprised of 16 events spanning 7 weight classes plus the open weight class in both the men's and women's divisions, will be held over four days, from September 28 to October 1, at the Makuhari Messe Event Hall located in Chiba City.

60587    It has been 37 years since Japan hosted the event before.

60588    Young contenders are replacing their seniors in each country, and are coming to the competition with an eye toward next year's Atlanta games.

60589    Will host country Japan be able to defend its three medals in the men's and one medal in the women's division, captured in the world championships two years ago, in its traditional martial art?

60590    Foreign contenders such as Antal Kovacs, gold medallist in the 95 kilogram weight class at the Barcelona Olympics and the world championships, Korean Ki Young Jeon in the 78 kilogram weight class, and fellow countryman H. Chung in the 71 kilogram weight class are attracting attention.

60591    In the women's division it is shaping up to be a lively competition as eight countries earned one gold medal each at the last world championships.

60592    Japan's highest hopes lie in the men's 86 kilogram weight class.