The Ultimate way to explore Kyoto… in a Kimono
Couples who kimono together, stay together, right?
Kyoto is known for its exquisite temples and beautifully adorned geishas, dressed in colourful kimonos and yukatas (a lighter and cooler version of the kimono for summer). It also happens to be somewhere where it’s completely normal for tourists to dress up in said kimonos and yukatas and wander the city. Not one to ever turn down an opportunity to play dress up, I was excited to be made over by Kyoto Kimono Wargo in a yukata and walk the walk, clogs and all!
Seeing the sights and being the sights in Kyoto
Although somewhat gimmicky, renting a kimono, or in our case a yukata, and doing sightseeing is a fun way to explore Kyoto. It gave us the opportunity to really embrace a part of Japanese culture. There is something undeniably romantic about wandering through picturesque streets, lined with traditional wooden merchant houses in full Japanese dress-up. It’s a perfect way to immersive yourself and find a connection to the place. And before you know it, you are part of the sights, and for many passers by, the perfect feature in their keepsake Kyoto photos.
Heading to Japan soon?
Check out our checklist of things to do before you go!
Where to hire a Kimono / Yukata
Kyoto Kimono Wargo conveniently have nine stores spotted around Kyoto, and also stores in Tokyo, Osaka, Kanagawa and Kanazawa. We visited the Gion store in Kyoto, as it was only a 5-minute walk from where we were staying. It also happens to be located near Hanamikoji Dori, one of the prettiest streets in Kyoto (and Geisha central).
Kyoto Kimono Wargo
Walking inside, we are greeted by very friendly staff and shown to the racks of colourful yukatas. Suddenly I was engulfed in a textile rainbow of colour and floral patterns. After choosing a yukata, we are presented with an array of bright obi (the fabric belt) and accessories before being taken to our change rooms to be dressed.
Wearing the Yukata
There’s actually quite a bit to wearing a kimono or yukata, with layers of undergarments and special ways of tying everything together. I was wrapped with padding around my stomach (like I needed more!) and a frame before the yukata was added and the obi was meticulously tied in a way to look like a work of art. It felt like I was being wrapped up as a present with the bow on top!
Hair Styling
Then comes the hair styling. You can opt for a hairstyle as an extra, and if you want the full experience, it’s worth it. There are plenty of intricate styles to choose from, and the stylist whipped up something gorgeous in a matter of minutes!
Package options
Kyoto Kimono Wargo provide a variety of options to cater to different budgets and tastes, starting from only ¥2,500 (online price). We opted for the Couples Premium Yukata (with the Premium Hairdo as an extra) and really enjoyed the experience. Each yukata plan includes the Yukata, Obi (belt), Kincyaku (bag) and Geta (thongs/clogs).
Is it comfy?
Honestly, it was comfier than I expected. It was a steamy summer day in Kyoto and the yukatas were light and breathable. We also did A LOT of walking, so our feet were sore by the end of the day (but whether or not it was from wearing the Geta, or just the 24,000 steps we did, I can’t say).
Japan has some of THE tastiest food!
Here’s what to eat when you are there!
We saw so many tourists dress up in kimonos and yukatas when we were in Kyoto, almost to the point that tourists stood out more if they weren’t dressed up! It’s especially fun to do as a couple or group of friends. I mean, nothing says ‘I love you’ more than dressing up in couples kimonos and spending a day exploring Kyoto’s beautiful sites and having a bit of fun along the way. If you are in Kyoto and want to really treat yourself to a cultural experience, check out Kyoto Kimono Wargo.
Would you dress up in traditional costume and explore a city? Tell us below!
A warm thank you to Kyoto Kimono Wargo for dressing us up for the day. As always, our opinions and cheesy photos are our own.
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I think it’s great that you both did this! What a great story! It seems like you both had fun doing it!
We really did! Even Guy (who’s not as into the idea of dress-ups) really enjoyed it! It’s great value for money too 🙂
I love the fabric and colours of the one you chose, it really suits you, the colours are so vivid. As a plus size person, I decided against the kimono experience – I loved the idea but felt self-conscious because usually larger sizes are not really available in Japan and I didn’t want to go in and then have to deal with the polite embarassment of the staff when they couldn’t find anything to fit me! If I were slimmer, I’d have loved to try it. The other concern of mine was walking in the geto shoes – I find flip flops or any type of footwear where there is a thong between my toes really awkward to walk in. But we’ve been to Kyoto three times now and I always get a lot enjoyment from seeing other visitors dressed up and looking so beautiful!
Thank you Kavey! Can you tell purple is my favourite colour? 😉 The geto shoes weren’t as uncomfortable as I thought they’d be, but if you don’t like wearing thongs, then they might be annoying by the end of the day. Some people would just wear their own sandles and it still looked fine. If you ever are interested in the kimonos, check out Kyoto Kimono Wargo’s website, as I think they have a range of sizes you can pre-order. I can see why you’ve gone to Kyoto three times – I absolutely loved it there and can’t wait to return!
Your kimono is beautiful! What a unique way to connect with the culture when you travel. I would like to visit Japan one day but as I mainly travel solo I’m not sure I would feel comfortable walking the streets alone dressed like that but it would be fun to do with a friend or partner I bet!
Thanks Meg! Japan is a great place for solo travel – the people are very friendly and polite and it’s a safe country. I think you’d be ok doing this solo, but it is fun with a friend!
Such a fun article! I adore the kimonos and it looks like such an incredible experience. All of the hairstyles are so beautiful too. Definitely going on my bucket list!
Thank you, Kate! The kimonos and yukatas are stunning and it’s such a great way to experience Kyoto! Highly recommended 🙂
What a FUN way to see a city! Seriously. You have inspired me to play dress-up more often! 🙂
Haha I’m a big kid, so always jump at the chance to play dress-up 🙂
Ohh my god! This is amazing.. I’ll definitely do this! 🙂
It is so fun! And the photo ops are awesome 🙂
Love the kimonos! Yours is absolutely gorgeous and the colours! You really went all out for the day. Kyoto looks so lovely too!
Haha we went as far as our feet could take us! I think my pedometer counted 20,000+ steps that day! At least we looked good doing it! :p
This was such a fun post! Loved your kimonos and the photo ops!
Thanks Paroma! It was a fun day!
What a great idea to explore Kyoto in a kimono! I love wearing kimonos, and will certianly consider doing this when we visit Japan! Thanks for sharing this fun experience!
I loved wearing the kimonos too! I wish we bought one to bring home with us as they were so comfy!
OMG what a fun way to explore Kyoto! I LOVE your photos!!! ANd it’s super cool that you can add a hair style as an extra – this is awesome!
Thanks Meg! Yes, so fun and the photos ops are priceless 🙂 And considering how long it takes for me to do something simple with my hair, I couldn’t resist the hairstyle option! 😉
I would definitely wear this when I visit Kyoto. It looks so lovely and one way to embrace the culture. It also good for photo ops too 🙂
Thanks Cai! Not only did it look good, but it was quite comfy!
Dressing up in the local garb and exploring the city must indeed be a unique experience. Probably it will contribute towards an immersive experience as you are literally getting into the skin of the place. Have not tried it, but looks promising. Will do on one of our next trips.
Thanks Sandy! Yes, it was a great way to immerse ourselves into the trip! We highly recommend you try it! 🙂
Love this story. Looks like you had so much fun. Japan is in the next 3 on our list and Kyoto is definitely going to be a part of it 😀
Thanks for the comment Marie, glad that you enjoyed it. Japan smashed our expectations by a long way and we absolutely loved dressing in our kimonos in Kyoto. Would you and your husband ‘kimono’ together?
Hi, Im going to Japan next summer and I’ve a question about the rental at Wargo.
Did you rent them online? If you did could you maybe help me with my problem because when I try to rent a yukata online I only get the kimono option..
So I was wondering if maybe I can’t choose for a yukata online but it is an option in the store or I’m just stupid for not finding the yukata option..