When we think about Japan we often think about kimonos. The traditional Japanese garment, with its signature long sleeves, beautifully colored, and timeless.

However, these days the kimono is often only worn for ceremonial or formal occasions, except when you are in Kyoto! Here, you will encounter people of all ages wearing a kimono going along just doing their daily business. And although I see them every day, I think, I will never get used to it.

Which makes Kyoto the perfect place to try wearing a kimono yourself, even just for a few hours. It’s quite an experience not just for the beautiful photos, but will also give you another perspective into Japanese culture.

So let me share with you a little behind the scene info and the best places to rent a kimono in Kyoto. From great value kimono rentals deals, as well as where to find designer kimonos in case you want to get a little bit extra fancy.

 Good to Know Before Renting a Kimono

Many kimono rentals in Kyoto base the price around the time you want to rent it, but also on the style of the kimono, as well as what accessories/items you would like to go with it. Furthermore, it is also worth knowing that if you make a reservation online or are in a group of 2 or 3 you may get a discount depending on the shop. But more about this later.

So let’s have a look at some things to keep in mind to get the perfect deal and have the best possible experience when renting a kimono, not just in Kyoto, but generally while in Japan!

1.Time Matters

With most kimono rentals opening around 9 am/10 am this is the most expensive time to pick up your kimono. Mainly as you will get the full day wearing it. So aiming for afternoon times is often cheaper.

Also keep in mind, wearing a kimono is not super comfortable, especially if you are not used to it. Therefore renting it for the full day might not be in your interest after all. And with many shops having a wide selection of kimonos available there should be no issue with finding one you like. However, if you do have a certain style in mind going in early might work better for you.

2.Getting a Discount Renting a Kimono in Kyoto

Reservation is the keyword. Many shops will let you easily reserve your time online and often knock-off up to 1000Yen if you do so. If you are with some friends, it is also worth checking which shops offer group discounts, which could reduce your rental fee by about 500Yen. Not too bad, right?

3.Kimono Fitting

If this is your first time renting a kimono you might be surprised that there is always a fitting included.

Basically, after you choose your kimono you will be led to a dressing room and given all the undergarments, socks, etc. A staff member will help you to get dressed, as especially the belt needs some extra love to make it look stunning. You will also leave all your clothes at the shop and get them back when you return your kimono. You will be given a choice of a matching bag for smaller items to bring with you. So my tip, best to only bring what you really need.

4.Accessories and Hair

Most kimono rentals offer basic plans, which contain a kimono, undergarments (often referred as “inner”), belt, socks, and shoes, but exclude other accessories. It makes sense to compare what is included and also what you want before making a reservation. As this too can safe you quite a bit of money.

5.Good to know for Women

Wear a sports bra or a bra without wire. Some shops tell you, but not all of them do, and especially if you are not making a reservation in advance you may not be aware of this.

Kimonos are wrapped quite tight so if you are wearing an underwire bra this might not be very comfortable. From personal experience, I also recommend when they fit you, breathe in, and hold your breath. This will make sure you will be able to breathe later. As in many ways, kimonos are very similar to a corset. And if they are too tight, you will not enjoy your experience.

6.Deposit

Not all kimono shops require a monetary deposit, but you might be asked depending on the shop. This is in case you do not return (although this may be unlikely as they have your clothes) but also in case, there is any major damage to the Kimono. Some shops offer next day return and you definitely will be asked in that case, often this is around 10’000Yen.

7.Kimono Vocabulary

No need to be fluent in Japanese when you are renting a kimono, but these few terms will definitely make it easier to understand what is included in your rental.

• Yukata: The summer version of the traditional kimono, not as formal, lighter, and often more colorful.
• Geta/Zouri: Wooden shoes similar to flip flops.
• Tabi: White socks to wear with the Geta, the big toe is separate from the other toes. Often you can keep them.
• Obi: The belt
• Kanzashi: Hair accessory, often a comb with flowers or other decoration depending on the style.
• Haori: A kimono Jacket, quite light, and worn open.

Where to Get Your Kimono in Kyoto

So now that you know what to look out for and have all the vocabulary you need let’s check out the best places to rent that kimono!

Kimono Rental Kyoetsu Gion

With a wide selection of kimonos, their basic plans starts at 3000Yen, but you get a 1000Yen discount if you do reserve online.

This plan includes kimono, inner, obi, bag, tabi socks, and zouri. They also have kids kimonos and you can add plenty of accessories for an extra fee. I personally love that they have a wide selection of colors and styles including brands and retro kimonos, which is the latest fashion this year. Just keep in mind they will come at an extra cost.

Check out their Instagram for some inspiration and for more info and reservation click here.

Okamoto

Said to be the Birthplace of rental kimonos, this is another great place! With various locations all over Kyoto, pick up and return is made extra easy.

Their basic set plan includes a kimono, obi belt, bag, tabi socks, sandals as well as a scarf in autumn/winter for as little as 2,980Yen. They also have kids kimonos and what I love, you can return the kimono for free the next day, this will require a cash deposit. You can also have it picked up from your hotel for an additional fee. It could not be easier.

Have a look at their Instagram, reserve your spot here or check to see all their other offers.

Kyoto Kimono Yumeyakata

This is supposed to be the largest store in Kyoto and offers a great deal as well as free next day return for bookings after 2 pm.

Their basic plan starts at 3,500yen but if you book online you only have to pay 2,800yen. It includes kimono, undergarments, obi, tabi socks, bag, and zouri. They also offer all the trimmings and have professional hair and makeup in case you want to go all out.

Have a look at their Instagram or official site for reservations and more info here.

What else?

Getting the chance to wear a kimono in Kyoto by itself is already an unforgettable experience, and any photos you take will be stunning. It is worth mentioning though, that there are many places you can either get your photo taken or hire a professional photographer for a few hours.

Some kimono rental places do offer this as an extra service too. Alternatively, Airbnb offers some great deals such as “Kyoto Town Private Photography” or “Gion Photo Tour“, both of them have amazing reviews.

And with that, I hope you have a geat time in Kyoto, enjoy wearing a kimono and make some unforgettable memories in Japan!