Exploring traditional Kimono attire in Japan

Participating in the travel writing and photography competition “Discover Freedom” by Tran Ngoc Mai, experiencing traditional Kimono attire in Japan.

When Japan is mentioned, iconic images immediately come to mind such as cherry blossoms, sushi, tea ceremonies, samurais, ninjas, and of course, the Kimono. The national costume of the Land of the Rising Sun, known by its Japanese name, is recognized by many in Vietnam. As a lover of Japanese culture who has participated in numerous cosplay festivals, I have donned outfits mimicking kimonos and simple yukatas. However, the desire to truly experience a kimono in Japan has always been a personal goal.

During my visit to Japan in 2017, I enlisted the help of Klook to book a Kimono rental service in Tokyo. Everything from location, time, cost, booking, requirements, and more was arranged while still in Vietnam. The service was punctual and adhered to the Japanese hospitality style. Not only was it convenient, but the prices on Klook were also discounted compared to booking directly. With additional promo codes, we only paid 600,000 VND per person instead of the usual 1,000,000 VND per person for direct bookings.

The Kimono rental shop, named Aiwafuku, is easily accessible on foot from Asakusa Station, taking anywhere from 2-10 minutes depending on the chosen train route. After completing the voucher check and confirmation on the first floor, we were guided to the second floor to choose kimonos based on our preferences. The staff, proficient in English, warmly assisted us in selecting the attire. Being a fan of the color red, I chose a solid red kimono adorned with yellow and green wind chime decorations. In addition to the kimono, the staff also guided us in choosing obi (sash), accompanying bags, and more.

After selecting our attire on the second floor, we were taken to the third floor for the kimono dressing process. Unlike the Vietnamese Ao Dai, which you can wear on your own, or the Korean hanbok, which allows for some self-adjustment, wearing a kimono, especially for foreigners like us, is undoubtedly a complex task. A basic Japanese kimono consists of over 10 types of details, including the main kimono garment, the inner Nagajuban layer, obi (sash), various padding, different types of belts, and more. Each of these details has its own name, and they are worn in a specific sequence with meanings attached to even the smallest components.

Opting for the full kimono rental package allowed me to experience a professional kimono dressing service. The staff on this floor were all middle-aged experts, with decades of experience in kimono dressing. Their expertise in adjusting the attire to enhance the beauty of each individual, considering body shape and height, was evident. Spending 20-25 minutes just to put on the kimono highlighted the intricate, sophisticated, and respectful nature that the Japanese hold for their national costume. The layers of fabric and carefully tied sashes, creating a seamless overall outfit, showcased the attention to detail, even in the vibrant patterns and elegant bow tying.

After donning the kimono, I was directed to the hairstyling section. There were around 5-6 simple hair styles, and the necessary hair accessories were included in the experience package. Choosing a style and waiting for about 15 minutes, the staff completed my hair, making me look like a true Japanese local.

Selecting the appropriate geta (wooden clogs) and returning the items to the store, I was ready to stroll the streets of Tokyo in the traditional kimono as envisioned. The entire process at Aiwafuku took approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, so plan your schedule accordingly. Before leaving, the staff even assisted in taking group photos and reminded us to return the kimono before 4:30 PM.

After leaving the store, adorned in the distinctive kimono, it was time for a photo session. Not every time one gets to wear a perfectly tailored kimono in Japan, so capturing every moment against various backdrops such as parks, trees, bridges, shops, and even the distant Tokyo Skytree was a must.

After a stroll around the vicinity of the store, we walked to the Asakusa district.

Amidst a modern and bustling Tokyo, Asakusa stands out as a rare neighborhood preserving a rich historical and vibrant Edo period charm. If you're not entirely comfortable with the attire or prefer not to walk, another exciting option is to rent a three-wheeled vehicle with drivers donning traditional outfits – a truly enjoyable experience.

In this area, you'll find the oldest temple, Sensoji – a must-visit spot for those stepping into Tokyo. Perhaps it's the overwhelming emotions, but this time, wearing a Kimono while strolling through Asakusa and visiting Sensoji Temple brought a profoundly different sensation. It felt like truly immersing in the atmosphere of ancient Japan and the festive vibes of traditional celebrations. The surrounding shops seemed even more welcoming. Therefore, the Kimono experience in Tokyo is undeniably one of the most memorable and unforgettable moments during my visit to Japan. It's an experience you must try to understand that wonderful feeling. For me, when the opportunity arises, I am certain I'll once again don the Kimono.

✔ Purchase tickets: https://www.klook.com/en/activity/2125-kimono-experience-tokyo/

✔ Address: 1-3F, NW building, 1 Chome−1−11−4, Hanakawado, Taitō-ku, Tōkyō-to (东京都台东区花川戸1-11-4 NWビル1-3F)

✔ Transportation:

Tokyo Metro Ginza line, Asakusa Station, Exit 5, and a 2-minute walk

Tobu Railway, Asakusa station, just a 1-minute walk

Toei Subway Asakusa line, Asakusa Station, Exit 5, and a 4-minute walk

Tsukuba Express, Asakusa station, an 8-minute stroll

✔ Recommended Itinerary

Spend a day exploring the Asakusa area and its surroundings with the following activities:

❤ Book a kimono rental around 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM in the morning

❤ Stroll through the historic streets of Asakusa and visit Sensoji Temple

❤ Enjoy lunch in Asakusa with traditional dishes (such as Udon noodles, Soba noodles, tempura, sukiyaki hot pot, etc.)

❤ Explore Nakamise Shopping Street, specializing in souvenirs, decorative items, and traditional Japanese sweets

❤ Return and return the kimono before 4:30 PM

❤ Walk across Azuma Bridge over the Sumida River – a place with many outdoor cultural activities

❤ Visit the Tokyo Skytree tower – the tallest television tower in Japan and the second tallest in the world. You can take a taxi, train, or even walk to capture panoramic views of this famous tower.