iro Traditional Japanese Colors
Purple

Murasaki
Imperial Purple

The classical Japanese purple — dyed from the roots of the murasaki plant.

Color codes

HEX
#65318E
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RGB
rgb(101, 49, 142)
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HSL
hsl(274, 49%, 37%)
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CMYK
cmyk(29, 65, 0, 44)
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Origin

Under Prince Shōtoku's Twelve-Rank Cap system (7th century), murasaki was the color of the highest rank. It was so expensive to dye that its use was regulated by law (kinjiki, 'forbidden colors'), and it remained a symbol of aristocracy for centuries.

Where you'll see it

Ceremonial attire, medals, academic robes, luxury branding.

Contrast & accessibility

Calculating contrast against black and white…

Harmony palette

Computed from the color wheel — base, analogous (±30°), complementary, and triad. Click any swatch to copy.

Tip: analogous colors read as calm; complementary and triad add contrast for calls-to-action.

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