25 Best Places to Rent or Buy Kimono in Kyoto

by David McElhinney & Lucy Dayman | TRAVEL

Made in Japan Kimono available at Japan Objects Store

Kyoto is an treasure trove of traditional Japanese cultures, but it is first and foremost Japan’s most important kimono center with master artisans and new designers working in this eternal city. If you've ever flirted with the idea of getting decked out in an elegant kimono, then Kyoto is surely the place to do it.

One of the biggest appeals about exploring the beauty of kimono culture is that Kyoto is practically overflowing with kimono rental stores. You can dress up, get made up and stroll around the city posing for those perfect holiday shots. With this selection of the best places to rent a kimono in Kyoto, you’re bound to find one to suit you. Before you go, check out our guides to Vintage Kimono and Yukata (and take a look here if you’re not sure what the difference is!).

If you find that you want to purchase one to take home, there are plenty of kimono stores to choose from too. We have also included our top picks for where to buy kimono in Kyoto. Whether you're on a tight budget or flush with cash, looking for something brand new or are on the hunt for a vintage piece, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. Check out our How to Wear Kimono video tutorial and kimono size guide to make sure you know your size and can get ready to hit the street straight away.

And if you don’t manage to find what you’re looking for during your trip, don’t worry, you can still buy kimono and yukata from Kyoto in the Japan Objects Store, with free worldwide shipping available.

Contents

1. Tips for Renting Kimono
2. Best Places to Rent Kimono in Kyoto
3. Best Places to Buy Kimono in Kyoto

1) Tips For Renting Kimono

Clothes

Before you go to the rental shop, be sure to wear the correct undergarments. What you choose is at your discretion, but consider what will be most comfortable under the kimono. A thin short-sleeve T-shirt (V-neck if possible), and lightweight shorts are great options. In the height of summer, it’s hard to avoid overheating. But one nifty trick is to slip an ice pack – the kind you can buy in supermarket or convenience store – under the obi.

You may want to wear something thicker in the winter – check the temperature before you go to the store – in which case Thinsulate long johns and long-sleeved t-shirts, or light jumpers and leggings can be helpful. You can also pair scarves with your kimono when the temperature really plummets outside.

Don’t get too bogged down on footwear, however; you can wear any shoes you think look appropriate, especially if you plan to do a lot of walking. If you want to make your experience more authentic, you can rent traditional geta sandals. These are stilted and can be uncomfortable if you’re not used to them, so consider taking some Band-Aids to use in the event of chafing. If wearing geta, you might need to invest in a pair of tabi socks, which have a gap between the big toe and second toe to accommodate the strap on the sandals. Typically, you can’t rent tabi, so it’s best to purchase them beforehand.

Accessories

You probably won’t be able to access the pockets on your kimono, so a bag is a very useful addition. Not all rental stores provide them, however, and there’s no guarantee they’ll cater to your specific fashion needs. Feel free to bring your own bag, but avoid using bags carried over the shoulder, as excess friction can damage the kimono. Use a hand-held bag instead. Likewise, it’s advisable to not wear too much makeup around the neck, so as not to damage or stain the kimono.

In the Store

Remember that staff in a kimono rental store are there to help and want to make your renting experience as enjoyable as possible. They also know that many foreigners are trying on a kimono for the first time, and therefore might not be used to kimono etiquette. Not sure if they have kimono in your size or geta that fit? Unsure of what the obi is or how it works? Don’t like the design they’ve suggested or have a specific color palette in mind? Feel free to ask any of the pressing questions you may have.

Pregnancy

Please be aware that pregnant women are often not permitted to rent kimono as the tightening of the obi belt around the stomach can cause discomfort or other more problematic issues. If you are pregnant and would still like to rent a kimono then enquire with shops beforehand to discuss options with staff.

2) Best Places to Rent Kimono in Kyoto…

1. Tekuteku Kyoto

In a time of instant gratification, and immediate wants, there's something to be said for a company like Tekuteku which specializes in antique and vintage kimono rental. Staying true to the traditional beauty of the kimono while not getting stuck in the past, Tekuteku's kimono selection is classic and timeless. It's perfect for those who are on the hunt for something a little different. The store has a collection of over 250 vintage and retro kimonos. No matter your taste you'll be able to find the perfect kimono to suit not only your style, but also the authentically traditional scenic backdrop that is Kyoto's backstreets. The staff are on hand to advise you, but you can also check out our 8 Pro Tips for Kimono Beginners.

Address: 319-3, Kamiyanagicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: tekutekukyoto.com

2. Yumeyakata

Refined and elegant are the two primary descriptors that come to mind when thinking about kimono rental store Yumeyakata. This store offers a range of packages that cover the basics, but their Premium Kimono Rental Plan is their showcase package. At ¥35,000 ($310) for silk kimono rental, it's a little more expensive than other stores in the city, but Yumeyakata's main focus is quality over quantity. If you want a one-time unforgettable experience with some of the best in the business, this is the place to go.

Address: 472-1 Kinpukicho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: yumeyakata.com

3. Rental Kimono Okamoto

With store locations right by Kiyomizu Temple, Gion, Yasaka Shrine, Kodaiji Temple, and Yasaka Tower, it's no surprise that 200,000 people visit kimono store Okamoto annually. All of the well-stocked stores offer a range of rental plans suitable for all types of budgets and styles, whether you’re looking for silk kimono or cotton yukata. If you’re not sure of the difference, check out the explanation in our Kimono vs Yukata article. They provide standard plans, as well as formal plans, child plans, fully accessorized plans, and individual sized plans for plus-sized guests. If you're looking for a one-stop-shop that can cover all bases, Okamoto is the place to go!

Address: 6-546-8 Gojohashihigashi, Kyoto Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: okamoto-kimono.com

4. Uruwasiki

Uruwasiki caps their customer base at 20 people per day to ensure that they can give each individual the utmost attention and care. An eye for detail is integral to kimono dressing, and the team here take detail to a whole new level. Many of the staff are multilingual, speaking English, Chinese, French, with other languages (Korean Thai and Spanish) coming soon. The store's hair and makeup artists carry national qualifications too. The store is just a three-minute walk from Fushimi Inari-Taisha, making it a trusted and convenient option.

Address: 26-1, Enokibashi-cho, Fukakusainari, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: jpkimonorental.com

5. Yume Kyoto

Rental Yume is one of the most popular rental shops with international travelers thanks to their excellent location and English, Chinese, and Taiwanese speaking staff. The store is stocked with kimono for both male and female patrons, and they offer special couples packages too. Yume is located next to Yasaka Shrine, and is also near Kiyomizu Temple, making it a convenient choice for those who want to explore the city's most scenic landmarks.

Address: 4F Yasaka building 300 ACROSS Gionmachi-kitagawa Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: yumekyoto-kimono.com

6. Kimono Rental Kyoetsu

Kimono Rental Kyoetsu has six outlets in Kyoto, and one in Asakusa, Tokyo. So if you're traveling across the country and want to stick with a name you're familiar with this store is an excellent choice. This outlet offers both yukata and kimono rental for both genders, but Kyoetsu's most unique offering is the Kimono Trial Plan. For just ¥1,000 ($10) guests can have a kimono styled in-store (over their clothes), which is ideal for those who want a quick holiday snap between sightseeing adventures.

Address: 418 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: kyoetsu-gion.com

7. Gion Komachi

An artfully tied obi is an integral part of any well-styled kimono. There are many ways to tie an obi knot, as you can see in our video tutorial on How to Tie an Obi in Under 2 Minutes. At Gion Komachi the team has their very own unique tying method that looks more like a delicate flower bouquet than a simple obi band. If you’re looking for where to rent a kimono at a great price, they have packages available for both men and women starting at just ¥1,890 ($16). For the complete look, they also have hair and makeup services too.

Address: F3 Community Gion, 272-5 Matsubara-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: gion-komachi.com

8. Kyoto Kashin

If you want the full royal treatment for your next kimono experience, then Kyoto Kashin is the kimono rental store for you. This popular, tourist-trafficked store offers a range of kimono dressing plans, but their most unique is the Princess Plan. This plan comes with a kimono with extra long sleeves, which allows the wearer to showcase the prints and patterns of the garment more than what is typically possible. The outfit also comes with accessories like bags and sandals made with the most luxurious fabrics.

Address: 5F, Benzaitencho 5, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: kyoto-kashin.com

9. Akahime

If you're looking for a summery budget-friendly rental option, pop by one of Akahime's two Kyoto based outposts, the Akahime Arashiyama Main shop or JR Saga Arashiyama shop. The stores offer both kimono and yukata rental, the latter of which is ideal during the steamier Kyoto months. For 1,900 yen you can sign up for a 'Yukata two-hour Stroll Plan' which allows for plenty of time to snap that perfect shot. The set comes with a yukata set complete with bag and sandals. Additional accessories are available too.

Address: 3-56 Sagatenryuji-susukinocho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: akahime.com

10. Wakana

A 30-second walk from Yasaka Shrine in Gion you’ll find Wakana, a kimono rental store in the beating heart of the old city. The shop specializes in high-grade, made-in-Japan, materials, like silk, and offers a wide range of kimono bearing elegant patterns, cultural motifs and soothing seasonal colors. Once suited up in your Japanese attire, you’ll exit the doors of Wakana and immediately be surrounded by one of the most famous regions in the entire city, where geisha and teahouses once reigned supreme. All accessories are included in the rental price, and the shop will also store any excess luggage while you navigate the streets.

Address: Moon Beauty Gion Bldg 2F, 300 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: wakana-kimono.com

11. Wargo

Under the gaze of Kyoto Tower sits Wargo, a quirky kimono rental store with various rental plans for all ages. It has plans for couples, plans for children, retro-modern plans for women, and mix-and-match plans for men using basic fabrics. Or if you really want to turn heads, get the antique kimono plan, paired with a luxurious half-width obi made of gold and silver thread, and go for a stroll around the nearby streets. Wargo has two other stores in Kyoto’s Gion and Nishiki areas, as well as branches in Tokyo, Osaka, Kanazawa, and Kanagawa.

Address: 2F Gion OKI Bldg216 Nakanocho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: kyotokimonorental.com

12. Sakura

The word sakura (cherry blossom) may evoke images of spring, but at the Sakura kimono rental store you’ll find garments and styles for every season. You’ll need to make a reservation for this shop near Kyoto’s Shijo Karasuma Station, which offers thicker kimono from October to May and breezy summer kimono between June and September. A hair-styling service, including three styles of accessory is also available, as is an overnight rental service if you want to spend a full 24 hours garbed in the clothes of yesteryear.

Address: 2F, 153-9 Nagaharacho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: kimono-rental-sakura.com

13. Kyokomachi

Kyokomachi is another kimono rental shop in the Higashiyama district. It has a range of different plans to suit your needs, from a popular set plan that includes a kimono, obi, sandals, and Japanese accessories selected by Kyokomachi staff, to a luxurious Kyokomachi plan in which you can select from over 200 branded kimono. The lace kimono plan offers something a little more modern and refined, featuring delicately woven lace kimono in various color palettes and intricate designs. The shop is also walking distance from Kyoto’s famous hilltop temple, Kiyomizu-dera.

Address: 104 Tatsumicho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: kyokomachi-kimono.com

14. Rei

Rei is a little harder to find, as it’s located on the fifth floor of the Prestige Gion Building. But it’s worth venturing into for its four bespoke kimono plans. The omakase, or “staff’s choice,” plan is the most hands-off, where staff will select an elegant kimono based on your design specifications. With the basic kimono rental plan, simply choose from their wide range of styles, or you can elevate it with the antique plan, which includes a beautiful retro silk kimono with a thick, rectangular otaiko obi. There’s also a yukata plan, if you want to wear a traditional garment that’s lighter and airier, if a little less refined.

Address: 270 Umemotocho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: kimono-rei.jp

3) Best Places to Buy Kimono in Kyoto…

15. Japan Objects Store

Have you fallen in love with kimono, but still couldn’t find what you were looking for? Worry not, at Japan Objects Store, you can browse a selection of Kyoto-designed kimono, yukata, and obi, as well as authentic and easy-to-wear kimono-style robes. Many designs are available in larger sizes to suit everyone! We curate some of the best Japanese kimono brands and artists including magnificent silk brocade wallets, makeup bags and clutches by the award-winning Tatsumura Textile, which you won’t find even in the boutiques of the city. You also have the option of free shipping to wherever you are in the world!

Website: shop.japanobjects.com

16. Chiso - The One-Stop Kimono Shop

If you’re serious about kimono shopping, then it would be a crime to bypass Chiso, one of the city’s most impressive outlets. This stunning kimono store balances preserving traditional style and aesthetics while bringing the classic art to the 21st century.

In 2006, the store opened its kimono salon Sohya, a way for people customers to find exactly what they want no matter how difficult or obscure. Because the store itself is styled after a salon, Sohya’s staff are able to tailor make every inch of the kimono experience to your taste, from measurements to fabrics to accessories. Do bear in mind though, that a brand new kimono is not cheap!

If you’re not too sure of what you want yet and are chasing a little inspiration, check out Chiso’s gallery, located on the second floor of the company’s headquarters. Open to the public, this impressive collection features Chiso’s work as well as a collection of artifacts covering many facets of the kimono making process. You can also learn more here about the 10 Most Popular Types of Kimono.

Address: 80 Mikura-cho, Sanjo Karasuma, Nishiiru, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto (see on map)

Website: chiso.co.jp

17. Antique Kimono Yaya - Classic and Homely

Located beside Chion-in Temple, one of Kyoto’s most iconic sites, sits Antique Kimono Yaya. If you’re in the area checking out the sites, be sure to make a detour to this impressive traditional store. Aside from kimono themselves, this store sells all manner of items made using all using kimono and traditional Japanese obi fabrics, including hawaiian shirts, dresses, and accessories.

If you’re chasing the classic Japanese garment however, then of course Yaya stock them too. Both new and recycled, there’s an abundance of options on offer, and the friendly and well knowledgeable staff here are more than happy to accommodate your needs.

Address: 306 Ishibashicho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto (see map)

Website: yaya2002.com

18. Vintage Hinaya

Hinaya Kyoto is one of Kyoto's most exciting and fashion-forward vintage, and second-hand kimono shops. Located on the way to Kiyomizudera temple, the conveniently positioned store sells vintage kimonos that have been repurposed for contemporary wear. Think casual street style with a bold classic Kyoto touch. If you're looking for a seamless way to inject a little traditional Japanese style into your everyday wardrobe, this is the place to go. The company's Pinterest page is a great place to start exploring the brand's offerings. An interesting little added touch is that they also have a guesthouse, named Hinaya Gojo located in the same building as the store.

Address: 4-448 Gojo-bashi Higashi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: hinaya-kyoto.com

19. Chicago - Vintage

If you’re wondering where to buy cheap kimono in Kyoto, there are plenty of thrifty options. And when it comes to Japanese thrift stores, there’s no name more iconic than Chicago. The outlet is probably most well known in Tokyo (with stores in Harajuku, Shimokitazawa and Kichiyoji) however they do have an impressive store in Kyoto too. And if you’re after a carefully cared for pre-loved kimono at a decent price, then Chicago is where it’s at.

One of the most unique aspect of Chicago stores are their meticulous layouts and huge collection of vintage apparel, which includes kimonos. If you’re looking for a bit of guidance, take a look at these 20 Most Popular Types of Traditional Japanese Clothing. Featuring every color imaginable all carefully arranged, the thrift kimono experience is a unique way to find that one-off piece. If you can’t make it to Kyoto, many of the chain’s other stores across the country also sell kimonos, so check them out!

While you're out shopping, here are a few suggestions of where you can take a well-earned break in downtown Kyoto!

Address: 258 Rokkaku Kudaru Shikibucho, Teramachi Street, Kyoto (see map)

Website: chicago.co.jp

20. Daiyasu

Daiyasu is a great shop for first-time buyers. Elegant robes and fabrics are draped over stands, stacked on shelves and neatly lined up in drawers, allowing customers to peruse a range of options before deciding which ones suit best. Before you buy a kimono, you might also be concerned about how to wear one – they can be notoriously difficult to don for first-timers. That’s why Daiyasu also offers a kimono-dressing class. It aims to provide a simple and casual class that will make you say, “Wearing kimono is easier than you think.'' In addition to tailoring, the shop also handles kimono dimensions, alterations, dyeing, stain removal and washing.

Address: 41 Kasabokocho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: kimono-daiyasu.com

21. Ochikochiya

In Japanese, ochi kochi, can mean various things: “that way, this way,” “far places, near places,” and “future and present.” This is what Ochikochiya represents, a place where people from across the world gather to connect the past, present and future of Japanese clothing. It also seeks to harness the power of environmental friendliness to bring these people together by selling repurposed kimono using the “three Rs” mantra: reduce, reuse, recycle. The shop features a wide range of different kimono types, from modern takes on the traditional robe to vintage kimono whose designs channel the days of old Edo. Because of its second-hand focus, a lot of Ochikochiya’s beautifully dyed and woven kimono and obi are cheaper than unused alternatives in other stores.

Address: 112-1 Butsukoji Higashimachi, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: ochicochiya.com

22. Vintage AN Gion

Vintage AN Gion is driven by the belief that kimono don’t have to be reserved for special occasions, but rather should be included in your day-to-day wardrobe. This is reflected in the shop’s stock, in which you’ll find kimono in a dizzying range of colors and styles, featuring just as many design motifs and patterns. Boro kimono are some of Vintage An Gion’s most popular for everyday use, made using a patchwork technique that has aesthetic parallels with modern Japanese streetwear. The shop also sells antiques, like old clocks, artworks, pottery, folkcrafts, and Noh theater masks.

Address: 37-4 Bishamoncho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

23. Konjaku-Nishimura

Konjaku Nishimura looks exactly like what one would expect a vintage kimono shop to look like: a sliding door opens up to a wood-paneled interior where kimono are draped elegantly over hangers and used to decorate the walls. It’s essentially a museum with purchasable curios, but this means the kimono come at a price. Some of the rarest robes in the shop cost more than ¥800,000, while the most elaborate obi are ¥100,000-plus. So if you’re a collector of fine Asian art or antique goods, this might be the store for you. Alternatively, if you’d like something more affordable, Konjaku-Nishimua sells accessories like coin purses, fans and postcards for a few thousand yen or less.

Address: 36-36-2 Benzaitencho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto (see map)

Website: konjaku.com

24. Flea markets - Go Hunting

© Peter Rabbit / Flickr Creative Commons, Kimono at the Flea Market

Kyoto is actually the home of flea markets, and if you’re on the hunt for a very authentic local garment you can’t miss one of the city’s many bustling markets. If you only want the best of the best don’t miss the Toji temple market which happens on the 21st of each month, the Kitano Tenmangu which runs on the 25th and the Chionji market which is held on the 15th.

Spending some time strolling around and exploring the stands, while meeting the friendly local vendors, is one of the best ways to really immerse yourself in Kyoto’s more laid-back lifestyle. With a little asking around chances are you’ll come across a hot tip on where to buy the best kimono in the market!

Of course Kyoto is not the only place where you can do some bargain hunting. Check out our 20 Best Places to Buy or Rent Kimono in Tokyo for when you visit the capital!

25. Department stores - The Easy Kyoto Kimono Experience

For the more high-end kimono shopping experience, then make a trip to Takashimaya, Japan’s fancier department store. Located on the fifth floor of the building complex sits Takashimaya’s allocated kimono department. Overflowing with stunning garments and helpful staff, this is arguable the easiest way to pick up that perfect fitting kimono.

Located just 10 minutes away from Takashimaya sits the store’s biggest rival, Daimaru, another impressive monolithic department store that’s home to a wide selection of kimonos. If you’re heading to the station, make your way to the Isetan department store. It may not be as big as the other two, this conveniently located outlet stocks a selection of yukata and kimonos worth checking out.