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How do you rent a kimono in Japan? What should first-timers keep in mind when renting a kimono? Check out this article to gain some valuable tips and insights!
The kimono is considered a traditional garment of the people of Japan, representing their culture and national identity, cherished by every citizen. So, if you have the chance to visit the Land of the Rising Sun, don’t miss the opportunity to wear a kimono and stroll through the country’s traditional streets.
For this reason, many people are interested in learning about kimono rental services. This article will summarize the important things you need to know and tips for renting a kimono for photos in Japan, so #teamMytour can prepare for an even more exciting and interesting trip to Japan.
1. Common Kimono Styles in Japan
In Japan, the kimono is often worn on special occasions and important events such as weddings, funerals, and traditional festivals. Because of this, there is a wide variety of kimonos, each carrying different meanings for the wearer. Here are some common kimono styles in Japan:
1.1. Komon Kimono
This Kimono style typically features small patterns scattered across the fabric, made from high-quality silk or fine materials, and comes in various colors. Unlike more formal Kimonos with large, bold patterns, the Komon Kimono is designed with a more delicate touch, making it ideal for casual outings or strolls through the city. It’s a daily wear garment that still maintains its elegance and traditional charm.
1.2. Yukata
This is the most common type of Kimono, often made from cotton with short sleeves and a very comfortable fit. It is typically worn in the summer in Japan or for everyday casual outings. Yukatas are lighter than Kimonos, and their designs tend to be simpler, making them quick to wear. Both men and women can wear this relaxed outfit.
1.3. Tsukesage Kimono
This Kimono is perfect for intimate tea parties with friends or traditional tea ceremonies. Tsukesage Kimonos are characterized by hand-painted or hand-embroidered patterns, but unlike other designs, the motifs don’t cover the entire fabric. Instead, they focus on areas such as the lower part, shoulders, and seams of the Kimono. This design exudes grace and refinement, offering an elegant and understated beauty that enhances the wearer’s sophistication.
1.4. Furisode
This Kimono is designed for unmarried women and is often chosen by young people who want to experience the look of a true Japanese girl. Furisode features long, wide sleeves and is embellished with vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns. Due to its meticulous craftsmanship and high-quality materials, Furisode tends to be more expensive than other Kimonos. When worn, it immediately conveys a sense of luxury and refinement.
1.5. Tomesode
This Kimono is typically worn by married women, and its design includes shorter and more modest sleeves. There are two variations of Tomesode: Kurotomesode and Irotomesode.
The Kurotomesode features a black base with gold and silver embroidered patterns, making it the most luxurious Kimono for married women. The Irotomesode, on the other hand, has simpler designs and is considered slightly less formal than the Kurotomesode. However, the Irotomesode comes in a wide variety of colors and appealing patterns, offering more choices for the wearer.
1.6. Hakama
Hakama Kimono is a traditional Japanese garment often worn during formal occasions or festivals. The Hakama consists of wide, long pants or skirts that are tied around the waist and fastened at the back. Originally worn by Samurai warriors for ease of movement while riding horses, today, the Hakama Kimono is worn for various events such as weddings, graduations, and traditional cultural ceremonies.
There are two main types of Hakama: one with separate pant legs and one without. These are typically paired with a long-sleeved Kimono to create a formal, sophisticated look. For men, Hakama creates a strong, elegant appearance, while for women, it exudes grace and refinement.
2. Which Kimono Should You Rent?
Generally, Komon Kimonos and Yukatas are the most popular choices among tourists renting Kimonos for photoshoots in Japan. Both garments are easy to wear, comfortable, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, providing plenty of options to choose from.
Additionally, many rental shops also offer Furisode and Hakama for those who want to explore different styles. It's a good idea to decide on the Kimono style you wish to rent first and then search for stores that offer those specific garments. This will help you save time and make the rental process quicker.
3. What’s the Difference Between Men’s and Women’s Kimonos?
Men’s and women’s Kimonos differ significantly in design, style, color, and how they are worn. Women’s Kimonos typically have nine parts, whereas men’s consist of five main sections. One of the most noticeable differences is in the waist area (obi), where women’s Kimonos feature a larger, more intricate obi that is tied into elaborate and complex shapes, requiring careful attention when dressing.
4. Is a Deposit Required When Renting a Kimono?
Whether or not a deposit is required for renting a Kimono depends on the policies of the individual rental shop or service. Some Kimono rental shops may require a deposit to ensure that the Kimono is returned in good condition with no damage. The deposit is usually refunded when the Kimono is returned on time and in its original state.
Deposits can typically be paid in cash or by credit card, and will be refunded after the Kimono is inspected by the store.
Additionally, some Kimono rental shops may not require a deposit but might ask for your personal information. If there are any issues with the Kimono, such as damage or late returns, you may be charged an additional fee.
If you rent a Kimono through Mytour, you will only need to pay for the service package you select, with no additional deposit required. However, if you return the Kimono late or in damaged condition, you may be charged a compensation fee.
5. How Long Can You Rent a Kimono?
Typically, Kimono rental shops do not set a specific time limit on how long you can use the Kimono. However, many shops do have set hours for returning the Kimono before they close. For example, the Kimono shop in Asakusa requires the Kimono to be returned by 5:00 PM, while the Okinawa shop has a 6:00 PM return time.
To know the exact return time and how long you can rent the Kimono, it's important to carefully read the information about the shop's return policies. Failing to return the Kimono on time may result in additional charges.
A helpful tip for #teamMytour is to rent the Kimono early in the morning to give yourself ample time to choose your preferred outfit and capture many beautiful photos. Also, be sure to make an appointment for your Kimono rental to avoid long waiting times.
6. What Does the Kimono Rental Experience Include?
Some Kimono rental shops offer a variety of service packages as part of the rental. For example, certain packages include a simple hairstyling service and accessories like bags or fans. If you want a more professional hairstyle or light Japanese-style makeup, you may need to pay an additional fee for those services.
Additionally, if you'd like a photographer to help capture your memories in your Kimono at a location in Japan, you'll need to pay an extra fee. The in-store photographer will work magic to create beautiful and captivating images. The photo package also offers a variety of options, such as photo sessions ranging from 1 to 2 hours, and the ability to request editing for a certain number of photos.
7. Where Should You Rent a Kimono?
In large cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, Fukuoka, and Osaka, you'll find plenty of shops where you can rent a Kimono. It's a good idea to research the available Kimono rental shops in the city you plan to visit. In particular, consider choosing shops near temples, shrines, or historic districts to not only immerse yourself in the culture but also create lasting memories while wearing traditional attire in these iconic locations.
8. How Much Does Renting a Kimono Cost in Japan?
Rental prices for a Kimono vary depending on its quality and design, ranging from 500,000 VND to 1,000,000 VND. If you add services such as makeup or photography, there will be additional fees, typically between 1,000,000 VND and 3,000,000 VND.
9. How Long Does It Take to Wear a Kimono?
The time it takes to wear a Kimono depends on the type you choose, as well as its level of detail and complexity. For casual Kimono like Yukata, it usually takes only 10-15 minutes to wear, as it has fewer layers and the obi (sash) is easier to tie.
If you opt for a more formal Kimono (such as Furisode, Houmongi, or Tomesode), it requires more effort, involving several layers of clothing and a more elaborate obi knot. It generally takes between 30 to 60 minutes to put it on properly.
Some rental shops offer assistance from staff members who will help you get dressed and provide detailed instructions. So, if this is your first time wearing a Kimono, don't worry if you're not sure how to wear it!
10. Does the Kimono Come in Different Sizes?
Unlike modern clothing with standard sizes (S, M, L), Kimono is designed in a one-size-fits-all style and can be adjusted to fit various body types through the way it's worn and the obi (sash) is tied. To ensure the Kimono fits properly, any excess fabric at the bottom is folded up and secured with the sash, ensuring it’s not too long for the wearer.
In some shops, customers are offered a few designs in different sizes for easier selection. However, traditional Kimono generally comes in a single size, and the staff will assist in making any necessary adjustments for a perfect fit.
11. Where Should You Store Personal Belongings After Renting a Kimono?
At Kimono rental shops in Japan, there is usually a complimentary storage service where you can leave your personal items in a locker. However, it's important to only leave clothing and items that are not of significant value, as the shop will not be responsible if anything goes missing.
12. You Should Wear Kimono from Right to Left
In traditional Kimono attire, the proper way to fold the garment is from right to left. The right side of the Kimono should always be tucked inside, with the left side folded over the right. This is an essential cultural and traditional practice in Japan, ensuring that the Kimono is worn appropriately and respectfully.
Additionally, folding the Kimono from right to left is reserved for the living, while folding it from left to right is meant for the deceased. It's important to follow this custom correctly, as a mistake may be seen as disrespectful to Japanese culture.
13. Keep the Back of Your Neck Exposed When Wearing Kimono
Khi mặc Kimono, việc để lộ phần gáy là một yếu tố quan trọng để thể hiện sự tinh tế và thanh lịch, đặc biệt là đối với phụ nữ. Trong văn hóa Nhật Bản, gáy là một phần cơ thể được xem là quyến rũ, và việc để lộ một phần gáy khi mặc Kimono mang ý nghĩa làm tăng thêm vẻ đẹp và sự duyên dáng cho người phụ nữ. Kimono không hở nhiều da thịt, nên để lộ gáy là cách thể hiện vẻ đẹp kín đáo nhưng vẫn đầy hấp dẫn.
Để nhấn mạnh sự duyên dáng và quyến rũ của phần gáy, thì khi mặc Kimono, phần tóc sẽ thường được búi cao hoặc cột gọn gàng, giúp phần gáy lộ ra rõ hơn.
14. Luôn Phải Thắt Obi Khi Mặc Kimono
Obi là dải thắt lưng dài và rộng, được sử dụng để cố định Kimono và tạo điểm nhấn quan trọng cho bộ trang phục. Kimono là một bộ trang phục khá rộng và dài, do đó nếu không có obi, Kimono sẽ dễ bị tuột ra và không giữ được hình dáng đúng chuẩn.
Việc thắt obi không chỉ có chức năng giữ Kimono của bạn trông gọn gàng hơn mà nó còn được xem là một phần nghệ thuật trong văn hóa mặc Kimono, giúp tôn lên vẻ đẹp và phong cách của người mặc. Obi thường được thiết kế rất cầu kỳ với nhiều màu sắc, hoa văn, và kiểu dáng khác nhau, tạo nên điểm nhấn nổi bật cho trang phục.
Thắt obi đúng cách sẽ giúp định hình vóc dáng, tạo ra sự hài hòa và cân đối cho toàn bộ trang phục. Đặc biệt là với Kimono của nữ, việc thắt obi sẽ giúp bạn tôn lên vẻ thon gọn và tạo đường nét mềm mại cho cơ thể.
15. Types of Shoes That Complement the Kimono
It can be said that the Kimono is a highly intricate traditional attire, not only due to its design but also because there are strict rules for the types of footwear that should be worn with it. Before wearing Zori or Geta, it is essential to wear the traditional Japanese Tabi socks, which separate the toes and help keep your feet dry and warm.
In Japanese culture, there are two popular traditional footwear types worn with the Kimono: Zori and Geta. Each type has its unique design and significance, suitable for specific occasions and types of Kimono.
Zori is a traditional Japanese sandal, typically made from materials such as straw, fabric, or leather. Zori resembles flip-flops but has a flat sole and a more elegant design, making it a popular choice for formal Kimono wear.
On the other hand, Geta is a traditional Japanese wooden sandal made from thick wooden slats with a thong strap. Unlike Zori, Geta features a higher sole with two horizontal wooden beams underneath, which provide balance and protect the wearer from dirt and water when walking outside.
Typically, Zori and Geta are readily available at rental shops, so you don’t need to worry about finding matching footwear for your Kimono.
The information provided here highlights the key rules for renting a Kimono in Japan. We hope this article by Mytour helps you gain valuable insights and tips for a smooth and memorable Kimono rental experience.
To make your upcoming trip to Japan even more convenient, don’t forget to check out Mytour Blog for the latest travel information: 13 Famous Travel Destinations in Japan in July, 11 Travel Spots in Osaka in September, Tokyo 5-Day 4-Night Travel Itinerary, 20 Famous Sights in Hokkaido, Self-guided Travel in Japan, Train Travel in Japan, Traveling Japan with Shinkansen Nozomi, 13 Travel Destinations in Sapporo, 24 Must-try Foods in Hokkaido, 14-Day Japan Travel Itinerary, Tips for Clean Eating in Hokkaido with JR Pass and Kitaca Card, 10 Beautiful Sights in Japan, 20 Hot Springs in Japan for Tattooed Travelers,...
Renting a Kimono in Japan is so easy, isn’t it?
