Why are westerners more familiar with Japan's Kimono?

In 1941, the forces of the Empire of Japan attacked a US port in Hawaii. This led to the US engaging in an all out war against the Japanese. When involved in an all out war, you study your enemy. read more

Because these groups have existed for a long time, and Japan tries to actively share it's culture by starting movements like 'Cool Japan', things like these are more common knowledge amongst people. That said, westerners aren't necessarily more familiar with kimono. Most of them wouldn't be able to tell the tourist type apart from the real deal. read more