The 8th Tensan Bijin Contest: Celebrating Japanese Beauty and Tradition

The 8th Tensan Bijin Contest, organized by LLC SHAFL, is set to take place from December 21, 2025, to May 4, 2026. This event aims to crown the ultimate "Tensan Bijin" (Beauty) who epitomizes the allure of traditional Japanese silk. Interested candidates can begin submitting their entries now for the final stage scheduled for July 19, 2026, at the Yokohama Port Memorial Hall.

Contest Overview

- Event Title: The 8th Tensan Bijin Contest
- Final Stage Date: July 19, 2026
- Location: Yokohama City, Japan
- Entry Period: December 21, 2025 – May 4, 2026
- Eligibility: Women aged 18 and above interested in traditional Japanese culture and beauty, specifically through products inspired by "Tensan" silk.

Prizes

- Grand Prize: ¥300,000 and a full set of cosmetics,
- Runner-Up: Two awards of ¥100,000 each, along with a full set of cosmetics,
- Special Awards: Two full sets of cosmetics.

Winners will be featured starting November 2026 as ambassadors for Japanese tradition and culture with Farandole, involved in promotional materials and campaigns.

Understanding the Beauty of Tensan

The concept of Tensan beauty is deeply rooted in Japan's history, dating back to the Yayoi period, around 300 BCE, where the practice of silk farming began. Tensan, known as the finest silk, symbolizes both the natural beauty of Japan and the aesthetic elegance associated with the ideal of Yamatonadesiko.

The care and cultivation of the Tensan silkworm have been traditionally linked to Japan's imperial family, emphasizing its significance in cultural heritage. The shimmering green cocoons produced in pristine natural environments are not just a product but a representation of elegance and tradition that every Japanese woman aspires to embody.

The notable qualities of Tensan silk include exceptional moisturizing properties and a rich composition of 18 amino acids, closely resembling those found in human skin. Given these benefits, the silk is celebrated as a natural solution for skincare—making it essential in cultivating the essence of Japanese beauty.

Why the Contest Matters

The importance of the contest lies in raising awareness and appreciation for the rich tradition of silk farming in Japan—especially as only two insect species, the silkworm and the honeybee, have been domesticated for millennia. While bee populations retain their wild characteristics, silkworms have undergone significant changes due to close human interaction. This unique evolution of the silkworm mirrors the qualities found in the Yamatonadesiko ideal, creating a necessity for focusing on pure, domestic Tensan silk.

The competition embeds the theme of appreciation back to the culture, reflecting gratitude for the lifelong beauty benefits this material provides to women across Japan. Participants are encouraged to engage in preparatory workshops on traditional skills, skincare practices, and cultural etiquette, ensuring they are well-prepared for the competition.

The Cycle of Tensan and the Contest Timing

The lifecycle of the Tensan silkworm takes about a year, involving distinct phases from hatching to cocooning. This connection to nature reminds participants of the significance of life and beauty, especially while reflecting on challenges faced during the coronavirus pandemic and other global events. The entry period set from December 21, 2025, to May 4, 2026, is designed for contestants to embrace beauty's gradual development, culminating in the final selection on July 19, 2026.

The Essence of Yamatonadesiko Initiatives

Through the activities of Tensan Yamatonadesiko, the aim is to foster love and appreciation for Japan's traditional culture while nurturing individual aspirations. The initiatives include regional revitalization efforts, support for disaster recovery, and a focus on preserving kimono-making traditions. As a result, the activities aim to expand the reach of Tensan awareness through the development of cosmetics derived from this unique silk, bringing more cultural appreciation to the forefront.

The collaboration with respected figures in Japanese fashion, such as Katsura Yumi, has inspired new creations like the Tensan wedding dress, further blending traditional elegance with modern aesthetics.

As this esteemed contest approaches, the organizers look forward to reuniting the community around the values of beauty and tradition. The event serves not just as a competition, but as a celebration of the enduring legacy of Japanese silk, inviting women who wish to shine throughout their lives to participate fully and meaningfully.

About Farandole LLC

Founded in 2007, Farandole LLC is committed to the preservation of Japan's Tensan culture, with goals to increase the number of Tensan farms across the country. The company specializes in developing skincare products derived from Tensan silk using patented techniques from Fukushima, making these natural treasures accessible to a broad audience. Farandole products have received recognition, including selections for Mont Selection, gaining popularity among men and women alike.

To sum up, the 8th Tensan Bijin Contest is a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Japanese tradition and to recognize the artistry involved in silk cultivation while fostering connections among participants inspired by this timeless culture.