Culture of Kirigakure

Since Kiri is more or less a dictatorship, most people prefer to not talk about the state in public. Direct refusals and conflicts are usually avoided, and it is preferred to keep communication to a bare minimum. The concept of “You do you, I do me, we don’t do each other“ is very common among the population. Most people, especially the older generations, tend to have more socially conservative views. Public image is very important, superficiality and classism are widespread. Laughing or smiling in public is also a disgraceful habit that is not appreciated. Because of the government’s intrusive control, people often speak with a reproach, talking through the fan, which foreigners are not exactly used to, and often leads to questions about the soft-voiced manner of the residents. Nevertheless, when they communicate among themselves, residents tend to use a harsh, direct tone to get the most important information across quickly and efficiently. When meeting foreigners, residents usually show themselves with an open heart and great hospitality.

The people of Kirigakure are mostly apolitical, yet they are known among the other four major nations as enthusiastic and hardworking workers. Vacations are a rarity, and workers often tend to work unpaid overtime. The industry and businesses are entirely state-owned, resulting in a form of state capitalism. Propaganda is a widespread tool of the government in Kirigakure to create a sense of solidarity and cohesion. The Hokage and the feudal lord are often revered and praised in the highest tones, „the more one works, the higher one rises on the social ladder“ is a widely accepted principle. As a result, the working class is regularly praised and congratulated while receiving a little more welfare. However, this does not change the status quo, a fact that most residents acquiesce in. Kirigakure is also considered one of the villages with the highest taxes. These are predominantly used to finance the common good. In Kirigakure, it is also standard practice to give each child a first aid course to teach basic medical skills. Although the government’s methods are mostly brutal and inhumane, a public healthcare system has been established over the years, albeit with its drawbacks. Members from lower castes often have to wait months for an appointment and are often treated as second class. In addition, environmentalism is also very high on the agenda, which is why the levels of pollution are much lower than in other villages. Since solidarity is presumably emphasized, Kirigakure offers a number of services such as public libraries, parks, bathing establishments as well as street lighting, free vaccinations, free drinking water, and a nationwide recycling system.

The clothing of the local residents is usually simple, with many dull blue, gray, and green tones as well as pinstripe patterns. Light kimonos made of breathable plant fibers, mostly cotton, are often used. Usually, it is recognizable by the clothing from which status a resident comes, since the richer families can afford expensive dyes. In summer, a light yukata with short sleeves and fluttering pants are commonly preferred. If one works on a rice field, the infamous rice fiber hat is added.