In traditional Japanese textiles, butterflies symbolize transformation, beauty, and the ephemeral nature of life. They represent joy, grace, and the fleeting moments of happiness, often associated with the changing seasons, particularly spring. Butterflies are also seen as messengers of the spirit world, symbolizing the soul’s journey and the idea of rebirth and renewal. Their delicate and elegant appearance makes them a popular motif in kimono and obi, embodying the aesthetic ideal of subtle beauty and transience in Japanese culture.