The Lowdown on Renting a Kimono in Kyoto

When in Kyoto, do what many others do: Rent a kimono or yukata and spend the day strolling the sights in it. As if that weren’t enough, think of the photo opportunities!

Sure, Kyoto is not the only place with kimono rentals; there are kimono rental shops in Tokyo, too, and in many other tourist destinations in Japan as well. But Kyoto is the most popular place to rent a kimono, and there are lots of options. Fortunately, many shops now offer convenient online booking, so you can plan ahead.

But how to choose the shop, and the package? This being Japan, no matter which shop you pick, you’re sure to get excellent service. But there are some things to consider. Which is why we’ve pulled together everything you need do know about renting a kimono in Kyoto, plus our recommendations for the best value rental shops and photo spots.

Best value kimono rental shops in Kyoto

Here are our recommendations for Kyoto’s best kimono rental shops. They all have affordable kimono rental packages, and many offer good value-for-money upgrades too. Plus, they all have professional dressing services in English.

Looking to spot some genuine Geisha? Read up on our best tips to see them IRL.

1. Wakana: For the boutique experience

Gion
From ¥4,000
Book via KKday or Klook

Wakana, located in the heart of Gion — Kyoto’s largest hanamachi (geisha district) — has a beautiful selection of made-in-Kyoto kimono, including ones made of pure silk. The staff of professional dressers can help you pick out the perfect, coordinated look; only two groups are fitted per hour, so you’re sure to get a personal experience. You can also book additional services, for an extra cost, including hair and make-up as well as a professional photoshoot.

A casual kimono plan starts at ¥4,000, which includes the kimono, obi, socks, and geta. There is also a couple’s plan available from ¥7,980 and kid’s kimono rental for ¥3,800. Rentals must be returned by 6 p.m. on the same day.

2. Mocomoco: For 1-hour rentals

Near Kiyomizudera Temple
From ¥3,300
Book via KKday

If you just want to try a kimono for a quick whirl, Mocomoco have a great 1-hour kimono rental package. They’re located close to Kiyomizudera Temple, so you’ll have enough time to get dressed, snap some great photos, and then be on your merry way. There is a huge range of kimono and yukata to choose from, ranging from classic antique kimono to trendy lace kimono.

The 1-hour package includes a kimono, obi, sandals, and a bag for ¥3,300. Meanwhile, the one-day plan starts at just ¥4,400 and includes free hair styling. They also have next day and hotel return services available for an extra charge.

3. Okimono: Rental options for the whole family

Near Kiyomizudera Temple
From ¥3,500
Book via KKday

Okimono is another great kimono shop close to Kiyomizudera Temple. Here you can rent kimono for the whole family — they have children’s kimono and yukata as well as adults’. Even better, they have large-sized women’s kimono and men’s kimono up to XXL. There are over 300 designs to choose from, and for women free simple hair styling is included.

Their base price for kimono rental is ¥3,500 and it includes the kimono and obi. Add ons include luxury hair styling (¥1,650), extra accessories (¥550 per piece), and hakama jacket rental (¥5,500). Next day return is available for ¥500.

4. Yumeyakata: For the full package

Near Gojō Station
From ¥4,180
Book here

Yumeyakata is one of the more well-known names for kimono rental in Kyoto. They have English and Chinese-speaking staff on hand, so reservations and fittings are easy, especially if you have questions. There are over 500 kimono designs to choose from.

Basic kimono and yukata plans start at ¥4,180, or ¥6,600 with hair-styling included. But there are also some interesting premium packages if you want to take it up a notch. For example, they offer furisode — the kimono with the long, dramatic sleeves worn on Coming of Age Day. This costs ¥18,150 with hairstyling included.

There is also an option to add on a 2- or 3-hour professional photo shoot at one of three iconic Kyoto locations: Higashiyama, Arashiyama, or the grounds of Bishamon-dō Temple. These packages start at ¥28,600 for up to four people.

You can return your kimono by 5:30 p.m. on the day of your rental.

5. Kyoto Kimono Rental Rei: For a simple and straightforward approach

Gion
From ¥3,077
Book here

Kyoto Kimono Rental Rei is another kimono rental shop located in Gion. They have a really simple and straightforward rental plan that will have you dressed and looking fantastic in no time at all. After picking your kimono, you’ll be professionally dressed and viola, you’re on your way. Of course, if you’d like to splurge a little, you can add a hair or make-up package. Or, if you’d like a fancier kimono that’s an option too.

Kyoto Kimono Rental Rei has English- and Chinese-speaking staff, and you don’t have to return your kimono until 6 p.m.

6. Wargo: Multiple convenient locations

Multiple locations
From ¥5,737
Book here

One of the largest kimono rental options in Japan, Wargo has several stores in Kyoto and a selection of around 4,000 kimono (plus 3,000 yukata) from which to choose. You can choose your kimono and the professional staff will help you get dressed. The basic package includes a kimono, obi, clutch bag, sandals, and socks. Hairstyling can be added for an extra fee.

As well as affordable basic packages, which start from just ¥5,737, they have deluxe options from ¥15,508.

7. Yume Kyoto: For easy returns

Gion
From ¥3,300

Yume Kyoto is a small, personable shop with a great location: next to Yasaka Shrine in Gion. Plans run between ¥3,300 and ¥5,500. With the cheapest plan, you leave the kimono selection up to the staff — which might be the best way to go anyway! Hairstyling from a professional stylist costs an extra ¥1,650. Plus, they also have children’s, men’s, and couple’s packages available.

8. Kyōetsu: For the a variety of plans to choose from

Kawaramachi, Arashiyama, and Kiyomizu
From ¥3,190

Kyōetsu has a wide variety of kimono plans, with the most basic coming it at just ¥3,190. The plans are priced according to the style of the kimono: the basic plan kimono have simple designs; an upgrade of ¥1,000 gets you more variety to choose from, including trendy ones and antique kimono.

Couples’ plans cost ¥8,800, while kimono rentals for kids cost ¥4,290. Standard hair styling is an additional ¥1,100, if you want to go for something more unique you can opt for retro looking hair style for ¥1,650 or a custom one for ¥3,300. This shop also offers a B.Y.O package for ¥3,190 and up, if you have your own kimono or yukata.

9. Okamoto: For the best selection

Multiple locations
From ¥3,278

Okamoto has been around since 1830 and claims to be the first to offer kimono rentals for sightseers. The big draw here is the selection: Each shop has over 1,000 kimono and yukata to choose from. The most popular package is the mix-and-match “full outfit” one, which gives you access to all of the different kimono styles plus pretty embroidered under kimono (as well as extra long kimono for tall customers) and lots of accessories. That plan costs ¥5,478, but there are cheaper plans too.

There are men’s package from ¥4,378 and children’s from ¥5,478. Hairstyling is also available, starting at ¥550.

Items must be returned by 6 p.m. on the same day, or you can pre-arrange to return them by 5 p.m. the following day for free (but it does require a ¥10,000 deposit).

Kimono rental experiences: Tea ceremonies and more

Dressing up all pretty not enough for you? Then check out these great packages that combine kimono rental with other experiences.

1. Kimono Rental Miyabi: Kimono rental and photoshoot

Near Kiyomizudera Temple
From ¥18,000
Book here

For memories that will last a lifetime, you just can’t go past this kimono rental and photoshoot package. It includes the kimono rental and dressing service, and then a 1-hour photoshoot with a professional photographer. After the shoot you’ll get a copy of both the original photos and five retouched photos.

2. Maikoya: For a tea ceremony and kimono wearing experience

Nakagyo Ward
From ¥8,500
Book here

If you’d like to do something more than just wondering around in a kimono, this is the experience for you. After picking out your kimono Maikoya’s expert staff will help you get dressed. For the ladies, a simple hair and make-up package is included, so you’ll be looking your absolute best.

Then, it’s time for the tea ceremony. You’ll learn about Japanese history and the tradition behind tea ceremonies. Under the guidance of the tea master, you’ll make your own matcha green tea and enjoy it alongside some wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets).

3. Kyoto Samurai Experience: Traditional dress and katana practice

Nakagyo Ward
From ¥18,000
Book here

Ever wonder what it’s like to be a samurai? Then this experience is for you. You’ll get to wear a traditional kimono, learn about the philosophy that guided samurai, and of course, learn to use a katana sword. A member of staff will also take photos of the experience, so your memories will last forever.

4. Behind the scenes: Kimono making workshop

Ukyo Ward
From ¥39,000
Book here

Looking for a more in-depth and unique experience? Then this kimono workshop is just what you’re looking for. You’ll visit a workshop that specializes in formal bridal kimono, and watch a master artisan at work carefully gold glaze and mother-of-pearl inlays to a kimono. Then you’ll get to try gold glazing yourself on a smaller piece of kimono fabric.

What to know before renting a kimono

There are a few things to keep in mind when renting a kimono or yukata in Kyoto, or anywhere else in Japan:

• Kimono rental should include a fitting and the necessary items like undergarments, belt, shoes, socks, and more. Hair accessories and hairstyling are often extra.
• During Kyoto’s hot and humid summers, you can rent a yukata (a colorful and lightweight, kimono-like cotton robe) instead.
• Package costs depend on a few things, such as the quality of the kimono (or yukata), the length of the rental period, and the inclusion of any extras like accessories, hairstyling, or photo shoots.
• Leaving your original clothes or belongings at the rental space is a sort of deposit guaranteeing that you’ll return. However, some places do also request an additional deposit against theft or damages (beyond a little reasonable wear and tear).
• Reservations offer not only a guaranteed slot but often discounts too, so we recommend you make one, and avoid being late.
• The first slot of the day (usually 9 to 10 a.m.) often costs extra, as this is the most popular slot (so you get maximum kimono time). The surcharge can range from ¥200 to ¥1,000, but is always clearly indicated.

Kimono glossary

Know your geta from your zōri? Familiarize yourself with the lingo, to be sure of what you’re getting.

Some of the different components of a kimono (or yukata) kit:

• Obi: The wide belt or sash worn around a kimono or yukata.
• Haori: Traditional kimono jacket, sort of like a hip- or thigh-length over-kimono.
• Tabi: White socks worn with a kimono, but not usually with a yukata.
• Geta: Raised wooden platform flip-flops, usually worn with yukata.
• Zōri: More formal sandals worn with kimono, flatter and traditionally made from laquered wood or rice straw.
• Kanzashi: Decorative hair pin, often with ornamental flowers.
• Bangasa: Traditional rain umbrella, made of sturdy, oiled washi (traditional Japanese paper) and bamboo.

Where to go for kimono photo shoots in Kyoto

You will want to make the most of your time and hit up all the best spots. To start with, here are the top places to visit in the city, including the famous Kiyomizudera Temple and Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.

If you have a couple of days then be sure to check out our guide to the east side of the city, which covers Gion, and our guide to the west side — that’s the where you’ll find Arashiyama and its famous bamboo grove.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to rent a kimono in Kyoto?

Most kimono rental places start at about ¥3,500 for a simple kimono and can easily go up to ¥10,000 or more.

What’s the difference between kimono and yukata?

The main difference between the two is the material used, kimono are made out of silk whereas a yukata is made with cotton. Yukatas tend to have shorter sleeves as well, making them better for summer.

While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. This post was first published in 2015. Last updated in April 2024. Hat tip to Tiffany for her contribution on Yumeyakata.