Rooted in centuries of tradition and steeped in history, the kimono holds a deep significance in Japanese society. In ancient times, the kimono was daily wear for Japanese people, but it practically disappeared from daily life before World War II. These days, there is a resurgence in national and cultural pride and tradition, and many Japanese people and foreigners are interested in donning this beautiful garment. With its flowing lines, vibrant patterns, and intricate craftsmanship, the kimono is a symbol of Japan’s artistic heritage and sartorial grace.
While you probably don’t have a kimono lying around your house or enough budget to buy a personalized one from a traditional shop, renting a kimono in modern-day Japan is both easy and popular.
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Is it okay for foreigners to wear a kimono?
Yes! Wearing a kimono is not considered cultural appropriation. Both Japanese people and foreigners are welcome to wear a kimono, and Japanese people are quite encouraging about sharing the culture of wearing kimono with visitors. Of course, make sure to treat this element of Japanese culture with respect. Please think of wearing one as participating in an important cultural aspect with a lot of meaningful history.
Where is it appropriate to wear a kimono?
Technically, you can wear a kimono anywhere. There is no place where kimonos are specifically not allowed, and you can find kimono shops in pretty much every city in Japan. However, it is very popular to wear kimono at temples and in traditional streets and towns. It’s also popular to wear the summer version of the kimono, called a yukata, at Japanese summer festivals.
Where to rent a kimono in Japan
Kimono rental shops are popular across Japan. You can rent one quite affordably in any major city, including ones popular with tourists like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. We rented ours from Yumeyakata in Kyoto for around 4000 yen each for the whole day and loved it! Here are a few of my suggested options:
Tokyo
- Kimono Sakaeya: Appointment-only, highly-rated kimono shop with more interesting varieties as well
- Hanaka Kimono: Long-running shop in Asakusa with quick service and both traditional and modern kimono patterns
- Yae Kimono Rental Asakusa: Traditional, more refined option for a slightly higher price
Kyoto
- Yumeyakata: Our personal pick with helpful staff, affordable prices, and lots of options
- Okamoto Kimono: Rental chain with 7 stores around popular locations in Kyoto
- Kyoetsu Gion: Best price if you also want to book a photography session
Osaka
- Kimono Rental Wargo: Huge chain with super affordable rental plan
- Wafuku Sakura Kimono Shop: Small but robust kimono store, offers late return (9 PM)
- Vasara Kimono Rental: Another large and affordable chain option
How to rent a kimono in Japan
The typical kimono rental process looks like this: First, you’ll go into a dressing room where a staff member will be there to help you put the kimono on. Putting on a kimono is very difficult and time-intensive, so you’ll be grateful that they’re there to help! You’ll put on the light underclothes and then the staff will help you with the rest.
I was stunned at how complex the kimono dressing process is. Even with the help of the staff, it still took about 20 minutes and several layers of carefully pinned, folded, and tied cloth, plus hand towels and even a piece of cardboard.
After dressing, the staff might direct you to pick out accessories or get your hair done depending on how fancy the package that you booked is. And then off you go!
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Generally, kimono rentals last the whole day, and you’ll have to come back and return the kimono before the shop closes in the evening. The staff will usually store your clothes and belongings in a bag in the shop for safekeeping and collateral.
I will say that it is quite difficult to walk in a kimono. The shoes are far from comfortable and the skirt is usually narrowly wrapped, making it hard to take long strides. Don’t go anywhere that requires you to move too swiftly! I would also recommend against trying long distances or up lots of hills and stairs.
Have fun wearing your kimono in Japan!
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