Japanese Kimono Experience: Where to Rent and Wear a Kimono in Japan

Kimono is a traditional Japanese costume that originated in the Heian period (794-1185) and was initially influenced by Chinese Tang clothing. It is not only everyday wear but also a symbol of status. Today, kimonos are commonly worn for formal occasions like weddings, coming of age ceremonies, and tea ceremonies, as well as festivals such as fireworks displays and the Bon festival. In summer, the lighter Yukata is popular.

Kimono Experience in Tokyo

Tokyo kimono rental shops are mainly located around Senso-ji in Asakusa. They offer a complete experience, including rental, styling, makeup, and photography services. Some shops even support mixed-style outfits and offer rickshaw tours around Senso-ji.

Recommended places for sightseeing or photos

• Ueno Park: During cherry blossom season, wear light-colored kimonos to match the flowers, or opt for a light Yukata.
• Sumida River: It's less crowded and offers beautiful views for capturing cherry blossoms or sunset silhouettes.
• Senso-ji: The temple provides many classic backgrounds perfect for kimono photography, and you can also get a charm for good luck.
• Explore a kimono museum: Learn about the cultural history of kimonos and the meanings behind their patterns.

Kimono Experience in Kyoto

In the areas around Kiyomizu Temple, Gion Shijo, and Arashiyama, you can experience wearing a kimono, which also includes photography services. Choosing your outfit and hairstyle takes about 60-90 minutes. You could pick your kimono along with accessories like wooden sandals and a handbag, and staff will help you get dressed and style your hair. You could wear the kimono to various sightseeing spots for photos, and you usually need to return the outfit by 5 PM. Some shops even offer overnight returns.

Recommended places for sightseeing or photos

Kiyomizu Temple→ Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka:

Capture a panoramic view at the steps in front of Kiyomizu Temple, especially with a dark-colored furisode for a formal look. Use the lanterns from the shops along Sannenzaka for a nice composition while avoiding strong midday sunlight.

Fushimi Inari Taisha → Senbon Torii:

For the iconic red torii gates, visit in the early morning or late evening. It's best to wear a plain kimono to highlight the beautiful background.

Kennin-ji Temple → Gion Shirakawa: 

The Zen garden at Kennin-ji is perfect for tranquil, serene photos (note that some areas may restrict commercial photography). In Gion Shirakawa, after dark, the lanterns light up, creating a magical atmosphere ideal for capturing the elegance of geishas. A delicate hair accessory is recommended.

Geisha Tea Ceremony Kimono Experience:

In Kyoto, we can arrange for you to wear a kimono while enjoying a geisha performance. After getting dressed at the kimono shop, it's just a short walk to the teahouse, where you can watch a geisha dance, experience a tea ceremony, and take photos with the geisha. Alternatively, you can wear a kimono while participating in a matcha experience to learn about tea culture and make your own matcha.

Kimono Experience in Osaka

In the Nipponbashi area, Shinsaibashi, and around Kuromon Market in Osaka, many shops offer popular kimono styles and hairstyle designs. You can choose from various props like paper umbrellas and fans, and they also provide photography services.

Recommended places for sightseeing or photos:

Osaka Castle Park:

Use the stone path in front of the castle as a backdrop. It's best to visit in the morning to avoid crowds.

Shitenno-ji Temple:

This is Japan's oldest official temple, featuring diverse architectural styles. It's great for capturing layered backgrounds, such as the five-story pagoda and stone lanterns.

Tsutenkaku Tower:

The retro Showa-style of the tower contrasts nicely with the kimono. It's recommended to take photos in the evening when the neon lights come on for a vibrant street scene.

Kimono Experience in Mount Fuji

There aren't many kimono rental shops near Mount Fuji, mostly around Lake Kawaguchi. It's best to book online in advance. These shops offer rentals, makeup services, and photography, with hundreds of kimono styles to choose from.

Recommended places for sightseeing or photos:

Oishi Park at Lake Kawaguchi:

With 90 types of flowers, this park is perfect for photos. The cherry blossoms in spring and the colorful leaves in autumn make for stunning backgrounds. Brightly colored kimonos are recommended.

Swan Boats at Yamanakako:

You could take a swan boat or an amphibious vehicle to capture reflections on the lake and a full view of Mount Fuji.

Tenjindai Town (Hikkawa Clock Shop):

At the end of the street, you can see a panoramic view of Mount Fuji. It's great to hold a fan or paper umbrella for interactive photos. The contrast between the kimono and the modern setting is beautiful, but try to avoid taking photos in strong midday sunlight.

Kimono Experience in Kanazawa

In Kanazawa, you can rent kimonos mainly around Higashi Chaya District, Korinbo area, and near Kanazawa Station. While wearing a kimono, you can also enjoy activities like gold leaf crafting and traditional tea ceremonies. Some chain stores allow flexible returns at multiple locations.

Recommended places for sightseeing or photos:

Nagamachi Samurai District:

This area features traditional homes of samurai and their families from the Edo period. The historical buildings are well-preserved, making it a great place for those interested in culture and history to explore in a kimono.

Shima Tea House:

With over 200 years of history, this tea house was a place for nobles to enjoy tea and watch geisha performances. Wearing a kimono here adds to the experience. The tea house is well-maintained, showcasing decorations from past geisha performances and items they used. The tea room overlooks a lush garden, creating a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation.

Gold Leaf Experience:

About 99% of Japan's gold leaf comes from Kanazawa, so you'll find it used in many local products. Gold leaf has various applications, including in wooden sculptures, ceramics, and even food! Many traditional crafts in Kanazawa incorporate gold leaf. You could choose to create items like cosmetic boxes, mirrors, or jewelry boxes during the experience.

Itinerary recommend:

• 8-Day Essential Japan Family Trip with Culinary Delights
• 9-Day Japan Highlights Tour Including Hakone Leisure
• 12-Day Epic Japan Family Tour

Kimono Experience at Hoshino Resorts Aomoriya

Aomoriya is a resort hotel where you can fully experience Aomori's traditions and culture, combined with hot spring accommodations and dining.

The building is decorated with themes from the Nebuta Festival, a colorful summer festival in Aomori, featuring large, illuminated floats and traditional music and dance.

You could enjoy kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals or a buffet for dinner. Renting a kimono for a day costs only 500 yen, and there are many styles to choose from. Each night, you could watch a Nebuta Festival performance, which is very popular with children. This resort is great for families with kids who are visiting Japan for the second time or have plenty of time to explore.

Kimono Experience for Special Ceremonies

If you want a kimono experience for special occasions like coming-of-age ceremonies, birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries, or family activities, we can help you. We can arrange for you to wear a kimono or yukata and enjoy activities like sushi making, food tasting, tea ceremonies, fireworks festivals, and private photography services. Just let us know where and what activities you would like to do, and we will create a plan for you.

Japanese Kimono Experience Price

Kimono Rental Cost

• Basic kimono rental: Approximately 4,000-6,000 yen (about $27-40), including kimono, geta (wooden sandals), tabi (split-toe socks), and obi (belt).
• Premium styles: Styles like furisode (with long, swinging sleeves) or lace designs require an additional upgrade fee of 1,500-3,000 yen (about $10-20).
• Accessories and Props: Handbags, obi accessories, and fans range from 50-2,000 yen (about $0.30-13) based on material and complexity.

Couple/Family package

Approximately 8,000-13,000 yen (about $53-88), which includes two kimonos and basic accessories.

Photography Services:

• 1-hour photo package: Approximately 8,000-15,000 yen (about $53-100).
• Full-day photography (8 hours): Approximately 30,000-45,000 yen (about $200-300), covering multiple locations and outfit changes.

Prices may vary slightly by store.

Kimono Experience Tips

1. Traditional kimonos are best for spring and autumn, while yukata (summer kimono) is suitable for early summer and early autumn.

2. In winter, you could wear warm shawls and jackets. Dress according to the season to avoid getting sick from the weather. Choose larger patterns for better photo effects.

3. Is it suitable for foreigners to wear kimonos?

Locals generally welcome foreigners wearing kimonos, as long as you follow proper etiquette and wear them correctly. Both men and women can wear kimonos without worry, as long as you respect basic dressing rules.

4. The tea ceremony requires kneeling. If you cannot kneel, please discuss adjustments in advance. Some places allow sitting sideways, cross-legged, or brief standing to relax. The kimono may restrict movement, so consider modern, simplified designs for easier sitting.

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