Get into the Okinawan spirit at the Japanese Cultural Center's Okinawan Family Kimono Dressing Event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow.

Teacher and cultural expert Toshiko Chinen will guide adults and children as they put on the traditional dancing kimono and have their hair and makeup done in the style of the Ryukyu Kingdom (what Okinawa was referred to before it became part of Japan).

Once dressed, participants can capture the moment with professional photographs by King Digital Imaging Center.

"The dressing is an important aspect of the traditional performing arts that developed several centuries ago when the kingdom of Ryukyu attained a measure of wealth and prosperity as a trade agent between China, Southeast Asia and Japan," said Mandy Westfall, JCCH programs director, in a written statement.

"The distinctively Okinawan kimono is made from fabric dyed in the bingata style, which is created by the application of stencils featuring flower, bird, wave and cloud motifs in intense primary colors. The traditional white-faced makeup and hair complete the look of this art form that depicts the spiritual and cultural life of the people of these islands."

Sponsored by the JCCH, Yasuko Arakawa of Aki no Kai Okinawa Koto group and Dr. Bernice Hirai of Sawai Koto Kai of Hawaii, the event is open to men, women and children (ages 3 and up). Chinen will share her knowledge and collection of traditional clothing.

Cost is $64 per JCCH member; $80 per non-member (price includes traditional hair and makeup; cost of photos is separate).

For more information or to register, call 945-7633, e-mail info@jcch.com or go to www.jcch.com.