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There is much discussion on the origins and meanings of shibari. Therefore, this page will unavoidably have multiple errors. If you have corrections or suggestions, feel free to message us!
Shibari (縛り) is is japanese word, used from around the 1990’s that means “binding” or “tying”. It is a type of bondage that involves tying people up in intricate patterns with rope. The style generally focuses on aesthetics and display of the body. Shibari is often used in sexual context because of its origins in Japanese pornography, but is not inherently sexual. It can also more commonly be used as a form of meditation, or as a tool to create connection and intimacy.
Another word for shibari is kinabaku (緊縛) or “tight binding”, used from around the 1950’s and popularised in porn magazines. The separation between different terms is unclear, but there seems to be some agreement that kinbaku refers to a more connective and sensual interpretation of bondage, while shibari is more focused on artistry and aesthetics. The terms are used somewhat interchangeably in practice these days, even in Japan.
Shibari is inspired by, but not strictly derivative of a Japanese martial art, hojojutsu (捕縄術), where the goal is to restrain captives as fast as possible. Through this art, rope became a symbol of power in Japan, similar to how handcuffs are perceived in the western world. Where shackles and the Saint Andrew’s cross are medieval European incarceration methods converted into erotic play, so is rope bondage in Japanese culture. Doing shibari is therefore often seen as a show of (sexual) power and power dynamics. Some forms of tying today still focus on causing torment (semenawa) on the person being tied.
What people get out of doing shibari varies widely. Usually, the person tying (rigger) is dominating and the person being tied (model, or sometimes bunny) is submitting, but this is not always the case. Some people enjoy including sadomasochistic elements in their play, others do not. Some people prefer to tie themselves and thus forego the aspect of power dynamics entirely. Here are some suggestions for what people might enjoy while doing shibari:
The rigger might enjoy:
The technical skill and mastery of the tie
The feeling of power in restraining a partner
Fascilitating an enjoyable experience for the partner
Good sex positions
Feeling emotionally connected
The model might enjoy:
Letting go mentally, emotionally, physically
The feeling of being challenged
The tight feeling of the ropes
Enhanced sensual perceptions
Feeling emotionally connected
The ropes used are usually 4-8mm in diameter and around 6-8m long. The most used ropes are made of natural fiber like jute or hemp. Synthetic ropes have also become popular because of their stronger build and vibrant colour options. Synthetic ropes tend to be a little thicker (up to 10mm) and longer (10m).
There are many ‘patterns’ in shibari that have specific names, most famously the ‘takate kote’ or box tie. Some people prefer to tie according to those standard patterns, others prefer to improvise and find their own. Shibari has grown into its own ‘culture’ as well, with certain individuals being well-known for their own specific styles that they teach. Examples are Naka-style, Akechi-style, etc. Some people really enjoy diving deep into the cultural and aesthetic meanings of one style, others prefer to find their own ways.
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