Book Kimono Rentals in Kyoto

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Tourist in traditional kimono walking through Gion district, Kyoto.


























































Step into the heart of Kyoto’s cultural tapestry with a kimono rental experience. Picture yourself wandering cobblestone streets lined with wooden machiya houses, the vibrant patterns of your kimono catching the sunlight as you pass by traditional tea shops. Pause at historic landmarks or join a tea ceremony, where every detail—from the delicate folds of your kimono to the serene surroundings—feels like a page from a bygone era. Whether you’re dressing for a few hours or an entire day, a kimono transforms your exploration of Kyoto into a story worth remembering.

Navigate your Kimono Rentals in Kyoto guide

  1. Why rent a kimono in Kyoto?
  2. Your kimono rental options in Kyoto
  3. Plan your visit
  4. What to expect from your kimono rental experience in Kyoto
  5. Frequently asked questions

Why rent a kimono in Kyoto?

Wearing a kimono in Kyoto is more than just dressing up—it’s stepping into a living tradition that connects you to Japan’s cultural roots. Here’s what makes it special:

Connect with tradition

Wrap yourself in the intricate folds of a kimono, each detail representing centuries of Japanese craftsmanship and heritage. Feel the textures and patterns that were once exclusive to nobles, now available to anyone wanting to embrace this timeless art.

Walk through history

Picture yourself strolling the narrow streets of Gion or standing at the gates of Kiyomizu Temple, your kimono blending seamlessly with the wooden architecture and stone pathways.

Tailored experiences for everyone

From vibrant kimonos for women to sleek styles for men and playful options for children, there’s a kimono for every age and preference. Add hairstyling or traditional makeup to complete the look.

Capture rare moments

Every step you take in Kyoto becomes a photo-worthy memory, whether it’s against the backdrop of a quiet bamboo grove or beneath the cherry blossoms of Maruyama Park.

Your kimono rental options in Kyoto

Kimono Experience at a Traditional Machiya

Ticket type: Standard and Luxury packages

Duration: 1.5 hours

  • Guided tour of a historic machiya townhouse with preserved wooden architecture.
  • Includes an authentic tea ceremony with optional exclusive access to the Rakuju room.
  • Wear a premium kimono steeped in Japanese tradition.

Recommended tour:

Kyoto: Machiya Kimono Rental and Tea Ceremony

Full-Day Kimono Rentals in Kyoto

Ticket type: Gion Rental and Kiyomizu-dera Rental

Duration: Full day

  • Wide selection of kimono styles with optional hairstyling and makeup services.
  • Perfect for exploring iconic landmarks like Gion and Kiyomizu Temple.
  • Includes accessories like obi sashes, sandals, and handbags for a complete look.

Recommended tours:

Kyoto: Full day Kimono Rental in Gion

Kyoto: Full day Kimono Rental in Kiyomizu-dera

Choosing the right kimono rental in Kyoto depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for. If you want to combine traditional clothing with an authentic tea ceremony in a historic setting, the Machiya Kimono Rental is ideal. For those planning to spend the day exploring Kyoto’s scenic streets and landmarks, the Full-Day Kimono Rentals offer flexibility and a wide range of styles. Prices range from ¥3,000 for simple plans to ¥38,000 for luxury options, offering something for every preference and budget.

Kimono rentals in Kyoto - Plan your visit

Tourists participating in a Tokyo Maikoya Traditional Tea Ceremony wearing colorful kimonos in Japan

Flexibility is at the heart of kimono rental experiences in Kyoto, with packages tailored to suit different schedules and preferences:

  • Short sessions (1.5 hours): Perfect for those pairing their rental with a tea ceremony at a historic machiya, offering an intimate cultural experience within a limited timeframe.
  • Full-day rentals: Ideal for exploring Kyoto’s iconic locations like Gion and Kiyomizu-dera at your own pace. Take your time to enjoy photo opportunities and soak in the beauty of these historic landmarks while dressed in elegant traditional attire.
Women wearing kimonos in Kyoto's Arashiyama district.

Kyoto’s changing seasons add a unique charm to the kimono experience, transforming your backdrop into a living painting:

  • Spring (March to May): Walk through Gion and the Higashiyama district under blooming cherry blossoms, with pastel petals framing every photo. This is a popular season, so booking ahead is essential.
  • Autumn (October to November): Explore Kiyomizu-dera and its surroundings as vibrant red and orange foliage creates a stunning contrast to the timeless architecture.
  • Summer and Winter: Choose lighter yukatas in the summer for a comfortable yet traditional look, while winter rentals include additional layers, letting you enjoy Gion’s serene streets even on chilly days.

Navigating Kyoto’s top kimono rental locations

Getting around Gion

  • Access: Gion is easily accessible by public transport, with bus stops and train stations nearby. The Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line is just a short walk from the district. | Find on Map
  • What to know: The area is bustling with tourists, especially during evenings when lanterns light up the streets. Plan your visit earlier in the day for quieter exploration and better photo opportunities.

Exploring Kiyomizu-dera

  • Access: Kiyomizu-dera is best reached by bus, with stops located about a 10-minute uphill walk from the temple. Be prepared for a slightly steep climb, which is part of the charm of reaching this iconic site. | Find on Map
  • What to know: The streets leading to the temple are filled with shops selling traditional sweets, souvenirs, and crafts. Allocate extra time to browse or grab a treat along the way. During peak seasons, arriving early ensures a more relaxed visit.
Women in colorful kimonos at Tokyo Maikoya Traditional Tea Ceremony, Japan.
  • Rental shops usually provide comfortable changing spaces where professionals will help you wear your kimono properly, ensuring an authentic and secure fit.
  • Most locations offer storage for your clothes and belongings, allowing you to explore hands-free. This service is particularly useful for full-day rentals in Gion and Kiyomizu-dera.
  • Your rental includes everything needed for the perfect look—kimono, obi (sash), sandals, socks, and even handbags. Accessories are carefully matched to your kimono for a polished appearance.
  • For an additional fee, enhance your look with traditional hairstyling and makeup tailored to complement your kimono. This service is available for full-day rentals at Gion and Kiyomizu-dera.
Tourist in traditional kimono walking through Gion district, Kyoto.
  • Arrive early: Reach the rental shop early to have first pick of kimonos, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons like spring or autumn. 
  • Dress comfortably: Wear a lightweight T-shirt or tank top and avoid tight or bulky clothing, as it can affect the fit of the kimono. White socks are recommended, particularly for tea ceremony packages like the Machiya Kimono Rental.
  • Check accessibility: If you’re visiting Kiyomizu-dera, be prepared for an uphill walk to the temple. Comfortable footwear is key while en route, though you’ll switch to traditional sandals provided with your rental.
  • Plan around your itinerary: If you’re opting for the Full-Day Rental, consider exploring nearby landmarks such as Gion or the streets surrounding Kiyomizu-dera for a well-rounded experience. Allocate enough time for hairstyling and photos to make the most of your rental.
Couple tasting matcha tea

Wearing a kimono is a cultural experience, and respecting traditions enhances its authenticity:

  • During tea ceremonies: Bow to express gratitude and handle the tea utensils carefully. Always return the tea bowl with its front facing the host.
  • Respect the attire: Avoid running, eating, or drinking while wearing a kimono to maintain its pristine condition.
  • Follow venue guidelines: Be mindful of rules at temples or historic sites, such as removing shoes where required.
  • Cultural sensitivity: Treat the experience with respect and avoid behaviors that may be seen as disrespectful to Japanese traditions.

What to expect from your kimono rental experience in Kyoto

Kiyomizu-dera temple in Kyoto

Walk through history

Wander the grounds of Kiyomizu Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where traditional architecture meets sweeping views of Kyoto. The temple’s wooden stage, built without nails, is a marvel of craftsmanship that perfectly complements your kimono attire.

Kyoto Kimono Rental Yumeyakata
Kyoto Kimono Rental Yumeyakata

Frequently asked questions about kimono rentals in Kyoto

Most packages include a kimono, obi (sash), sandals, socks, and accessories, while options like the Machiya Tea Ceremony also include guided tours and tea sweets.