Kyoto is home to numerous picturesque locations which are perfect for visiting in a kimono. From UNESCO World Heritage sites like Kinkaku-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, to the charming cobblestone streets of Gion and Pontocho, and serene Japanese gardens, the scenery everywhere is breathtaking. Experiencing tea ceremonies or trying your hand at making traditional Japanese sweets in kimono can deepen your appreciation for Japanese culture.
Additionally, Kyoto has a wide range of kimono rental services, making it easy for first-timers to experience wearing a kimono. This guide provides all the information you need to enjoy renting a kimono while in Kyoto.
1.Complete Guide to Enjoying Kimono Rental in Kyoto
Renting a kimono in Kyoto is a wonderful opportunity not only to experience traditional Japanese culture but also to create special memories. You can make the most of your Kyoto visit by trying a kimono rental.
1-1.Why Kimono Rentals are Popular in Kyoto
Kimonos are traditional Japanese garments with a history that dates back over a thousand years. As the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto still retains its traditional streetscapes.Walking through Kyoto in a kimono feels like stepping back in time. Exploring famous tourist spots like Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji, in addition to the cobblestone alleys and small shops, allows you to appreciate Japanese culture and history, and many people opt to rent kimonos in Kyoto to enhance this experience.
Kyoto also boasts numerous beautiful landscapes that complement kimono attire, making photo shoots more enjoyable. Some rental services offer professional photography, allowing you to capture even more stunning memories.
Kimonos also come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose according to the season or occasion. Professional staff will help you with the dressing process, so you can wear a kimono with confidence. Enjoy creating your own unique look and make special memories.
1-2.Differences Between Kimonos and Yukatas
Kimono is a general term for traditional Japanese clothing, including hakama, happi, samue, yukata, and more. Typically, garments that overlap the right collar under the left collar are called “kimono.”
Yukata, on the other hand, is a type of kimono mainly worn in the hot summer months. Made from breathable materials like cotton or linen, yukatas are designed to keep you cool and comfortable. Yukatas are considered casual wear and are often worn at summer festivals and fireworks displays.
1-3.Basic Process of Kimono Rental
The basic process of kimono rental in Kyoto is as follows:
1 | Reservation Most kimono rental shops recommend making a reservation. Kyoto can be crowded on weekends, holidays, and during tourist seasons, so it is best to book in advance. Reservations can be made via the shop’s website or by phone. |
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2 | Visit the Kimono Rental Shop Arrive at the rental shop at the reserved time. |
3 | Check-in and Select a Plan Confirm your reservation at the reception and choose your desired plan. Kimono rental plans often include a kimono, obi, accessories, and more. Some plans also include hair styling and dressing services. Choose according to your budget and preferences. |
4 | Choose a Kimono Select your favorite kimono from a wide variety of options. Consult with the staff to choose a kimono that suits the season, occasion, and your style. |
5 | Dressing A professional dresser will help you put on the kimono, which generally takes about 20-30 minutes. You can also opt for a hair styling service to match your kimono. |
6 | Choose Accessories Select accessories that complement your kimono, such as an obi, obiage, obijime, zori, and bag. The staff on-hand will assist you in completing your coordination. |
7 | Departure Once you are dressed and your hair is styled, you are ready to go. You can leave your belongings at the shop and enjoy sightseeing hands-free. Make sure to return to the shop by the designated time. |
Some kimono rental shops have English-speaking staff, so check in advance for peace of mind.
2.Top 3 Recommended Kimono Rental Shops in Kyoto
Enhance your Kyoto sightseeing with a special kimono experience. Here are three highly recommended kimono rental shops, each with unique features.
2-1.Rental Kimono Okamoto
Rental Kimono Okamoto offers over 1,000 kimonos and is known as a pioneer in kimono rental. With seven stores across Japan, they have a large traditional Japanese-style shop in central Kyoto, making it convenient to visit during your sightseeing. It is close to major tourist spots such as Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, and Fushimi Inari.
All kimono plans include a complete set of kimono, obi, bag, tabi, and zori (some items may differ for yukata plans). You can visit the shop empty-handed.
Experienced dressers provide careful and personalized dressing services.
An example plan is the set plan for 3,278 yen (including tax).
2-2.Kyoto Kimono Rental Kyoetsu
Kyoto Kimono Rental Kyoetsu offers over 30,000 kimonos, including popular antique and lace kimonos, favored by international tourists. You can also mix and match accessories like obis and obi decorations to create a cute, personalized look.
Kyoto Kimono Rental Kyoetsu focuses on beautiful dressing, ensuring that you can wear a kimono without discomfort or risk of it coming undone.
Stores are located in key areas like Kiyomizu, Kawaramachi, and Arashiyama, providing excellent access to major tourist spots.
An example plan is the standard plan for 3,300 yen (including tax).
出典:Kyoto Kimono Rental Kyoetsu
・Kyoto Kimono Rental Kyoetsu Kiyomizu Store
2-3.Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo
Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo is known for its low prices and a wide variety of options.By purchasing kimonos in bulk, they keep costs low while maintaining a large stock of approximately 9,000 kimonos, offering affordable rental prices.
In Kyoto, they have stores such as Kyoto Station Kyoto Tower Sand Store and Kyoto Gion Store. The Kyoto Station Kyoto Tower Sand Store is just a 2-minute walk from Kyoto Station, with Higashi Hongan-ji and Nishi Hongan-ji nearby, making it a breeze to start sightseeing in your kimono. With access to various rail lines, you can enjoy kimono sightseeing at popular spots like Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, and Fushimi Inari hands-free.
An example plan is the “Hitotoki Kimono/Yukata Plan” for 3,190 yen (including tax).
・Kyoto Kimono Rental Wargo Gion Store
3.Important Tips for Kimono Rental
Kimono rental shops display a variety of colorful kimonos and obis. Faced with such choices, many may wonder how to choose.
Here, we explain how to select a kimono and other important points.
3-1.How to Choose a Kimono and Recommended Coordinations
Start by choosing a kimono that you feel is “beautiful” or “would like to wear.” Communicate your favorite colors, patterns, and desired image to the staff, who will then help you in finding the perfect kimono. Generally, coordinating the colors of the kimono and obi creates a cohesive look. For example, pairing a light pink kimono with a dark pink obi or a light blue kimono with a navy obi gives a refined and elegant impression.
Kimonos must also be selected according to height and body shape. Rental shops will choose the right size for you, ensuring a perfect fit.
For women, accessories like obi pillows, obi boards, obiage, and obijime are used. Choose these items to match the colors of the kimono and obi for a more sophisticated coordination.
3-2.Precautions and Troubleshooting During Kimono Rental
Kimonos have long hems, so be careful not to step on them while walking. When climbing stairs or crossing steps, it is advisable to lift the hem.
Some kimono rental shops offer kimono insurance. By opting for insurance, you can be covered for cleaning or repair costs in case the kimono gets soiled or damaged.
If you accidentally damage the kimono, contact the rental shop immediately. Trying to fix it on your own may worsen the condition.
Conclusion
If you are unsure about choosing or coordinating a kimono, feel free to consult the staff for assistance. They can suggest the best kimono and coordination for you from an expert’s perspective. When dining in a kimono, be mindful not to let the sleeves touch food or drinks. Rolling up the sleeves or securing them with clips can help prevent an accident.
Kimono rental is a wonderful opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture. Enjoy your unique coordination and create beautiful memories.
*This article is based on information available as of July 2024.