Shibari

Shibari is a Japanese form of erotic bondage that developed from the historical military restraint technique Hojōjutsu. The term comes from Japanese and means “to bind” or “to tie up.” In modern BDSM contexts, Shibari primarily refers to the aesthetic, artistic use of rope bondage, with visual composition, body positioning, and the quality of the ties often taking center stage.

Unlike purely power-based restraint or immobilization, Shibari is often understood as an artistic and interpersonal practice. Even so, the same rules of consent, communication, and safety apply. Rope bondage can cause pain, nerve damage, impaired circulation, or breathing problems and should only be performed with knowledge of the technique, suitable materials, and a stop signal. Terms such as “rigger” for the tying person and “bunny” for the tied person are common in the scene, but should not be understood as fixed or universal roles.