With a fukuro obi (double-layered obi), the plain lining will show if you don't tie it in a double taiko (drum) knot. Marugaku obis, however, have the surface fabric on both sides, so you can tie them in a single taiko knot for a more formal look. The simple Marugaku obi "Raku Raku Raku" is easy to tie in a single taiko knot and combines the best features of both "maru obi" and "fukuro obi." Three Advantages of the Marugaku Obi "Raku Raku Raku" Easy to tie: It's easy to tie, and because it's a single taiko knot, you can tie it using the same steps as a Nagoya obi. Elegant: The tied taiko has a pattern on the back, giving it the formality of a maru obi. Comfortable: You don't need to double the taiko, so it's easy to tie and looks neat. Generous dimensions: It has ample length, with a finished length of one jo (about 3.8 meters), so it can accommodate up to a 90cm waist (Nagoya obis are 9 shaku 5 sun, about 3.6 meters). Enjoyable: You can easily choose between two different looks. When you put on the obi makura (obi pillow), you just decide whether to use the front or back, and you can enjoy two different patterns. (From the explanation page) This item was purchased about 10 years ago for over 200,000 yen and is a used item. There are some wrinkles and tightening marks, but there are no problems with normal use. Please refrain from purchasing if you are sensitive to these issues.