The new jersey for 2019 featured a design concept that centered on the Kabuto, the helmet of the samurai that embodies the spirit and glory of representing Japan: Harness the Bushido spirit of the Japanese people; Japanese rugby takes on the world. Bushido consists of seven virtues – a code of ethics for the samurai: benevolence, bravery, compassion, humility, honesty, honor and loyalty.
The Kabuto represents dignity on the battlefield as well as displaying the status of the wearer, striking fear into the heart of any opponent. For those who don the Kabuto it is a symbol of pride and conviction.
The front of the Kabuto is represented in the sharp upward turn of the stripes on the jersey - a modern expression that symbolizes the strength, speed and dynamism of the Japanese rugby team. The touches of gold on the jersey represent the morning sun shining on Mt. Fuji. The jersey was designed to inspire those who wear it to come together as a team and as a nation to meet the challenge of facing the best in the world.