[Video] Hishi Karada (菱身体) Tutorial: The Art of Diamond Body Harness in Shibari

Hishi (菱) means diamond/rhombus.

Karada (身体) means body.

When combined, Hishi Karada can be understood as "a diamond network on the body."

This type of bondage originates from Shibari/Kinbaku in Japan – the art of rope bondage that is both aesthetic and sensory. Today, Hishi Karada is widely favored in the BDSM community due to its ease of learning, safety compared to many other complex harnesses, and its high visual appeal.

Characteristics of Hishi Karada and its applications

Characteristics of Hishi Karada

• The strap is wrapped from the shoulder or chest down to the hip.
• The intersections create diamond-shaped sections running along the chest, abdomen, and can extend down to the groin.
• There is a stable ring at the waist that helps distribute the force and secure the entire structure.
• Can be combined with crotch rope, leg bindings, or light suspension forms.​

Purpose & Experience

• Aesthetics: Creates a very beautiful visual effect, standing out on the body – especially when combined with lingerie or nude art.
• Feeling: Fits snugly around the body, applying even pressure across the upper body, providing a sensation that is both comfortable and stimulating. Much gentler than stronger constricting styles like Takate Kote.
• Flexibility:
  • Can be worn for a long time during play sessions, photo shoots, or rope fashion performances.
  • It is the foundation for combining with many other rope play techniques.

Applications in BDSM & Shibari

• Decoration: Used in artistic photography, Shibari performances, or as a form of "rope lingerie."
• Play session: Increase the feeling of gentle control, applying even pressure but not too heavy.
• Suspension: Can be used for support hanging or decorative hanging, but is not safe for bearing the full weight of the body.

Guide video for tying Hishi Karada for beginners

If you are new to Shibari, the instructional video on Hishi Karada from Mistress Elena below will help you visualize and practice step by step.

Follow Mistresss Elena's YouTube channel to explore more about the art of Shibari bondage:

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Some tips for beginners

Hishi Karada is at the Beginner – Intermediate level. You only need to master a few basic knot techniques such as square knot, lark’s head, half hitch… to perform it. However, the important thing is not the complexity of the techniques but the care taken when engaging in the art of rope bondage: choose a soft hemp rope, ensure the rope is always flat against the skin, and regularly listen to feedback from your partner to make sure they feel comfortable and safe.

Shibari can be dangerous if not done correctly. Please pay attention to the following points:

Partner body check:

• Blood circulation: Do not tighten the cord too much, especially around the neck, armpits, behind the knees, or wrists.

• Nerves: Avoid placing the wire over areas with large nerves, such as the inner elbow or hip.

Prepare the supporting tools:

• Specialized tying rope: Use soft rope (processed cotton/hemp).

• Cushion or mat: To reduce pressure on the body if a partner falls or needs to rest.

• Specialty scissors: Always have wire-cutting scissors ready. 

 (Link to buy emergency scissors and hemp rope)

Practice time:

• Do not keep the partner in a restrained position for too long (no more than 20-30 minutes), especially at the beginning.

Once you are familiar with the knots, you can create more special tying stylestyles.

See more: Emergency scissors and tool check: The key to survival in Shibari

Conclusion

Hishi Karada is not only a beautiful body harness, but also a great way to explore Shibari at a basic, safe, and sensual level. It is the ideal choice for a photoshoot, rope fashion, or light play before upgrading to advanced techniques.

Do you want to experience Hishi Karada live with a Shibari expert? Join the Rope Jam or other workshop Shibari with Mistress Elena for guidance on safe practices and enjoy the art of stunning rope bondage.