What Hanfu Is Best for a Yaji Gathering?

If you’re a Hanfu lover, you probably love hanging out with like-minded friends, writing poetry, listening to the zither, arranging flowers, or brewing tea… As long as you’re with your soulmates, there’s always endless chatter!

Wearing Hanfu, crafting poems together, playing drinking games, or listening to Chuchu play the zither—it’s pure joy!

But here’s the question: what’s the perfect and prettiest Hanfu to wear for a yaji? Let’s share some tips today!

Indoor Yaji

Of course, the Hanfu you pick depends on where the yaji’s held. If it’s indoors—clean and comfy—you’ve got tons of options. Girls can go for a stunning yet elegant long Ao with a horse-face skirt, or try a big-sleeve cloak or Beizi. These are long and a bit heavy, but with AC and a tidy space, they work great. Or pick everyday shirt-skirt or Ru skirt combos—super cute and worry-free about sleeves getting tea stains or dirt. Practical outfits are a win anywhere!

For skirts, go for a longer length that doesn’t drag on the floor. Indoors, you’ll mostly be sitting for games or poetry, so a slightly longer skirt won’t trip you up. Color doesn’t matter—deep or light—since you won’t deal with ground dust indoors.

Guys can rock fly-fish robes, Taoist robes, big-sleeve cloaks, or Beizi—formal yet dashing, perfect for indoors where convenience isn’t a concern, just keep that cool vibe. Or go for round-collar robes, shirt-skirts, or straight Zhiju—easy and stylish picks.

Outdoor Yaji

If the yaji’s outdoors, prioritize comfort. Check the plan ahead—if it’s just a chill session in a park or scenic spot, girls can opt for slightly heavier Hanfu like long shirts, long Aos, big-sleeve cloaks, or Beizi. Guys can match with fly-fish robes, Taoist robes, big-sleeve cloaks, or Beizi, as long as the weather’s mild—not too hot or cold.

But watch the skirt color! Sitting outside means skirts might drag and pick up dust, so go for darker shades and keep the length shorter. When seated, lift the skirt and tuck it between your legs to avoid dirt. Skip hard-to-wash or wrinkly fabrics—outdoors, that’s a hassle. Also, avoid Song pants. Though comfy and non-slip, most modern versions from sellers are wide-leg pants, which drag in public restrooms and can get filthy—skip that trouble outdoors!

If the yaji involves walking around like a Hanfu outing, avoid long, heavy, or heavily embroidered pieces. These were formal wear back then, not for “street strolling”—it’s like wearing an evening gown on the sidewalk, totally out of place. Plus, embroidered outfits can snag on plants or critters, and that’s heartbreaking! For outdoor walks, pick light Hanfu like short shirts, short Aos, round-collar robes, or straight Zhiju. Take Chuchu’s short Ao with pipa sleeves—perfect for outdoor yaji, warm enough when it cools, handy for stashing small items, and super convenient!

Little Things to Watch Out For

Of course, there are other tips for Hanfu yaji. First, skip knockoff Hanfu or rental photo-studio styles—steer clear of the oft-mentioned “red flags” like Quju, Qi-chest Ru skirts, or Wei-Jin vibes.

Also, some yaji have rules—like wearing Han elements only or allowing modern clothes. Ask the host about guidelines, then style your fave look to enjoy a blast with your pals!