When you imagine Kyoto, Japan, a few things might come to mind. You might picture the wooded backdrop of the Arashiyama bamboo forest, or the tori-lined pathways of Fushimi Inari Shrine. An activity you can’t miss is exploring all of these sights while wearing a kimono rental in Kyoto.
Wearing a kimono is a somewhat tedious task as compared to modern clothing. In traditional Japanese fashion, the process of wearing a kimono is all about the art and practice of self-styling. It can certainly show you a new appreciation for the Japanese experience!
While traveling in Kyoto, I had the opportunity to try a kimono rental right in the heart of the Gion District. This article will walk you through the experience I had with Ayastar Kimono, one of the best Kyoto kimono rental spots in my opinion. I’ll also share what it’s like to wear a kimono and the overall experience of Kyoto while wearing traditional clothing.
What to Know About Kimono
While we may look at the garment as a luxurious article of clothing, the word Kimono literally translates to ‘the thing to wear,’ which makes a lot of sense when you think about its history.
The kimono was originally worn by commoners and as an undergarment by aristocrats until the 16th century.
The standard kimono is quite simple in construction, as it’s straight-seamed, wrapped towards the right, and secured with a sash (obi).
Instead of the construction, the pattern was typically an indicator of class or hierarchy. Only elite individuals wore kimonos made of silk or with delicate embroidered designs.
Where to Experience a Kyoto Kimono Rental
While walking through the Gion district, you’ll see signs advertising kimono rentals on just about every street. Kimono rentals in Kyoto are easy to come by, though some may be tourist traps requesting a ridiculous amount of money. Or worse, they may charge you extra when you return to drop off your traditional Japanese outfit.
Keeping all of this in mind, I went to Ayastar Kimono, which was less than a three-minute walk from the Gion-Shijo station (exit 7).
My friend and I were staying at a hotel only a few blocks from the location, so we chose to make our reservations for the following day. And yes, if you read the story about my haunting in Kyoto, it was that hotel.
We arrived a little late (thanks to the aforementioned situation at the hotel), but found the shop was relatively slow and the associates were ready to help us as soon as we arrived. Here’s exactly what to expect if you go through with a kimono rental in Kyoto.
The Step-by-Step Guide for a Kimono Rental in Kyoto
It took us a few minutes to locate the shop because it’s located on the second floor. When you arrive, you might see a freestanding banner outside depicting two people wearing a kimono. Then you know you’re in the right place!
Step 1: Pick out your kimono
When we arrived at the shop, we confirmed our reservation with the associate up front and were asked to select our kimonos. There were a total of four rows for female kimonos, all categorized by colors and different patterns. Many of them were lacy and covered in feminine floral patterns, though there were plenty with solid colors.
The selection for men is quite limited by comparison. The majority of the fabric was a selection of solid colors, though a few had patterns made of dark colors to match the base.
The kimonos are essentially all the same width, and the size can be adjusted by how tightly you wrap them. However, the lengths do vary. If you’re taller or shorter than the general average, you can ask them to show you different height sizes.
Step 2: The outfit assembly
Let’s face it, wearing traditional clothes doesn’t fare well with a full bladder. If you need to use the restroom, it’s best to do it before stepping into the changing room. There’s a restroom you can use off to the side of the cash register.
Putting on a kimono can be a challenge for beginners, but luckily the associates working at Ayastar will do most of the work with your kimono. You will first change out of your clothes and put on a long shirt that covers your underwear. Then the associate will come into the dressing room with you and first wrap your kimono, then tie the obi behind your back.
Step 3: Pick your accessories
After step 2, you might feel like an intricately wrapped gift. At least, that’s how I felt. The accessories were my favorite part, as Ayastar had a number of bejeweled chains for the obi and hair clips to match. You can also have an associate style your hair and makeup in a flattering way.
If you select any accessories or styling services, they will come with an extra cost. Once your outfit is complete, you’ll pay for the add-ons and store your personal items in a secured bag.
Step 4: Mentally prepare for Geta
While some may not love the idea of stumbling up the rocky temple pathways in slippers, your footwear will complete the full outfit. If you opt out of your practical walking shoes, Ayastar has a full rack of traditional flip-flop-style shoes (called Geta). Complete your kimono rental in Kyoto with a pair of geta to (literally) step into the world of old-world Japan.
Climbing the many hills of the Gion district in a pair of geta isn’t easy, but it’s an experience!
Step 5: Explore Kyoto!
Now for the best part! Once you’re wrapped up tight in the kimono and have your chosen accessories, it’s now time to go out into the city. Most kimono rental shops in Kyoto will allow you to rent for the full day, which allows you time to walk around outside.
You can visit most attractions in Kyoto wearing your kimono, but if you choose to wear traditional shoes, it may be difficult to walk on some surfaces. I walked through the bamboo grove in Yasaka Shrine and found it to be pretty slippery in some areas.
Be ready to take lots of photos, feel super authentic, and potentially get lots of stares and photos taken of you.
What to Know About the Gion District
Most visitors get their kimono rental in Kyoto’s Gion District, the historical part of the city most often seen in photographs. It’s particularly world-renowned because of the stunning tiers of the H?kan-ji Temple (Yasaka Pagoda) that stretch high above all other buildings and the occasional geisha sighting.
You’ll see 99% of the people in this part of town are tourists, but believe it or not, the Gion District is a residential neighborhood. People live here, which means they need to commute through the crowds and deal with noisy streets at all hours of the day.
Be wary that as of 2024, some residential streets are off-limits to visitors and are marked with “no trespassing” signs. You can still walk around most of the streets in the Gion District, but if you see a sign like the one below, make sure not to enter.
How to Wear a Kimono
Wearing a kimono is a unique cultural experience that will introduce you to the rich textile history of Japan. If you want to learn how to wear your own kimono at home, you’ll need to purchase the type of fabric that can be tied with a waist belt to create the ensemble. For a great tutorial, check out this video from Kimono Mom on YouTube:
What is a Kimono?
A kimono is a traditional style of clothing originating from Japan. It’s made from a single piece of fabric that can be worn tight or loose with the use of a waist belt. Both men and women wear kimono in Japan.
How much does it cost to rent a kimono in Kyoto?
The prices for Kimono range from premium (4,500 yen, or $33 USD) to their most luxurious Furisode (29,800 yen, or $218 USD). The rental price is per day and will include shoes, socks, undergarments, the kimono, and the obi.
