For many, Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Whether you are a one-time visitor or a repeat visitor, there are unique experiences that can only be done in the Land of the Rising Sun that you can’t miss! One of the most special and only in Japan experience is wearing a kimono, the traditional Japanese dress.
You can rent a kimono in many cities, such as Osaka or Tokyo, but if there is one place that is perfect to wear a kimono, it’s none other than the ancient capital of the country, home of the famous geishas and which still preserves all the essence and tradition of ancient Japan. Enjoy strolling down the popular places in Kyoto such as the Gion or Higashiyama district or take a photo shoot with professional photographers for special occasions such as weddings or family portraits. Wearing a kimono it’s one of the best memories for a trip to Japan as well as a way to learn more about Japanese culture. Kimono is not only for women but there are also Kimono (Hakama) for men that they can dress up as cool Samurai.
Nowadays, there are many Kimono shops for foreign visitors at many locations in Kyoto offering Kimono rentals with dress-up and makeovers. In this article, I have listed the best Kimono rental shops in Kyoto where you can have the most amazing Kimono experience!
1. Kimono Rental Wargo
Originally born in Kyoto, Wargo is Japan’s largest rental kimono service, with 20 stores nationwide. In Kyoto they have 7 stores located in key and easily accessible locations such as near Kyoto Station, the Gion district or the beautiful Arashiyama district, famous for its bamboo forest. We especially recommend the shops in Gionshijo, Kiyomizuzaka and Arashiyama as they are close to traditional and historical areas where you can take the best pictures!
Each shop has more than 9,000 kimonos to choose from and several different plans! The package includes the kimono rental, hairstyle and accessories. And if you don’t decide until the last minute, there is no problem, as they accept walk-in! (Price: from 2,980 yen)
▶ Official Website: https://kyotokimono-rental.com/en/
2. MAIKOYA Kimono Rental and Tea Ceremony
MAIKOYA is one of most popular kimono rental experience in Kyoto, as not only can you rent the kimono but you can also experience a Japanese tea ceremony, another must-do when traveling to Kyoto.
They offer a large kimono variety with both high end and budget options, 24-hours customer service and free photographer. Maikoya’s “FULL MEMORABLE SET” comes with hairdo, sandals, bag and hairpin. The staff will explain you the cultural aspects of kimono wearing and help you choose among hundreds of kimonos and hair sets both old-style and modern styles. In addition to the tea ceremony, they also sweets making and kimono photo studio options in their facility.
Maikoya has two convenient locations, Maikoya’s Kawaramachi is right next to the train station that can take you to Arashiyama or Fushimi Inari’s 1,000 gates and Maikoya’s Gion store has many exhibitions about the history of geisha and geisha kimono.
▶︎Book the exclusive Maikoya Traditional Kimono Experience in Kyoto at a discounted rate!!
3. Ouka Kimono
Top rated by users of Klook, one of the largest platforms for booking activities in Japan, Okura Kimono is also one of the most popular options for kimono rental in Kyoto. Ouka kimono have only 2 stores, one in Kyoto and another in Osaka, with 500 sets to choose from. However, this small business have a history of over 57 years, bringing to the customer a traditional and comfortable kimono experience.
In addition to the kimono rental they also offer professional photograph from one hour to one day, make up services and even wedding dress services, in case you have a special occasion. Upon request, they can also provide charter bus tour service and tea ceremony experience.
▶︎ Reserve here the Kimono Rental and Photoshoot in Kyoto by Ouka Kimono