Wearing a kimono in Japan is a dream for any tourist. But as exciting as it sounds, you might have a few questions: Is it appropriate for tourists to wear a kimono? How much does it cost to rent one? Are there specific rules you need to follow?
Tourists can wear a kimono in Japan to experience Japanese culture firsthand. However, it’s important to wear the kimono respectfully, follow etiquette, and avoid behavior that could be seen as disrespectful, such as treating it as a costume or engaging in inappropriate actions while wearing it.
In this guide, I’ll answer all these questions and more, so you can enjoy this unique experience respectfully and confidently.
Cultural Significance of Wearing a Kimono
The kimono is one of the most iconic symbols in Japan. It represents centuries of tradition, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. The kimono is more than just clothing. It reflects Japan’s history, values, and attention to detail. While the kimono is usually saved for special occasions these days, understanding its importance gives you a deeper insight into Japanese culture and etiquette.
Each kimono has its own story to tell through the colors, patterns, and designs. Each detail often reflect the season, the occasion, or the social status of the wearer. For instance, young, unmarried women tipically wear a furisode kimono, with its long, flowing sleeves. On the other hand, married women wear a more subtle tomesode kimono during formal occasions. Putting on a kimono is a great way to appreciate Japanese craftsmanship and heritage. It’s an immersive cultural experience for visitors.
When it comes to colors, bright shades like red and pink are often linked to youth and celebration. However, more subtle tones like black or deep purple are typically reserved for more formal, mature occasions. Floral patterns, like cherry blossoms, reflect the seasons, while cranes, turtles, and pine trees symbolize longevity and good fortune.
The way you wear a kimono also has meaning. You always wear it left over right, except at funerals, where it’s reversed for the deceased.
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Tourists and Kimono Experience
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For tourists visiting Japan, trying on a kimono is a popular activity to connect with the country’s cultural heritage. Many kimono rental shops offer the chance to wear a kimono for a day.
Tourists are usually welcome to try on a kimono as long as they respect it and understand its cultural significance. Locals are always happy to see people interested in their traditions, and they appreciate your efforts.
You can rent a kimono from a reputable shop and get help with dressing. It’s great to wear a kimono during cultural experiences like visiting temples, shrines, or historic districts like Gion in Kyoto. But never treat the kimono like a costume. You shouldn’t wear it while partying or clubbing, or use it for comedic purposes (e.g., exaggerated or mocking poses).
Renting a Kimono
Putting on a kimono is a bit trickier than it looks. The layers have to be tied and folded just right, with the obi positioned securely. Most rental shops include dressing services, where professionals will help you to make sure the kimono looks great. Without help, it’s easy to wear it incorrectly, which could lead to discomfort or even damage the garment. That’s why renting a kimono in Japan is such a popular thing to do.
The price range for renting a kimono is usually between ¥3,000 and ¥13,000, depending on the type of kimono. You can often get a simple package that includes the kimono, obi (belt), and basic accessories. Premium packages may offer hairstyling, makeup, and high-quality or seasonal kimonos.
Not all shops offer the same service, so it’s worth comparing options to see what works best for you. The price also varies if you choose to add a photoshoot or not. Here are some examples of the best Kimono experiences in Asakusa (Tokyo) and Kyoto:
- Kimono Tea Ceremony at Tokyo Maikoya: This experience in Tokyo combines kimono with tea ceremony during 1h30. It’s perfect for those who don’t want to spend the whole day in kimono. The staff helps you with the kimono, so you are dressed correctly. Then you learn about the history of tea in Japan while preparing your matcha tea.
- Kimono Tea Ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya: For those wanting to try the kimono and tea ceremony in Kyoto, you have the same experience, but on Japan’s ancient capital.
- Kimono Rental & Photography Experience in Asakusa by Kimono-mitsuki: Kimono experience in Asakusa with different packages for women, men, children or family. You can choose from different types of kimono and add a photoshoot if you want.
- Kimono Rental & Photoshoot Experience in Kyoto by Ouka Kimono: Kimono experience in Kyoto for women, men, children or family. You can add the photoshoot, too.
- Kimono Rental in Kyoto by Kawai: No photoshoot possible, but it has several types of kimono to choose from. You can even try a high-quality long-sleeved kimono. Ideal for those who just want to try wearing a kimono in Kyoto and take their own pictures without a photographer.
- Kimono and Yukata Experience in Kyoto: Basic kimono experience, but you can add options like hairstyle, accessories and makeup.
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Kimono Etiquette and Other Tips
There are a few simple etiquette rules you must be aware of when wearing a kimono. This ensures you show respect for the tradition and avoid any mishaps:
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- Wrap the left side over the right. The opposite is used only for funerals. This a common mistake when you put on a kimono by yourself.
- Pay attention to your posture. Stand and walk with a bit of grace to go with the elegance of the garment. If you slouch or rush, it might come across as disrespectful.
- Be careful when you’re eating or drinking. Kimonos are delicate and can be easily stained.
- Walk with a little more care. This is important to make sure you don’t slip on the floor or drag the bottom of your kimono.
- Don’t sit on the ground in public spaces or move too fast while wearing a kimono. Also, avoid overly physical activities like running or climbing. Kimono is all about elegance and tradition.
Bowing respectfully or walking slowly in cultural sites like temples or shrines is the way to go. However, using the kimono for comedic photos, taking selfies in sacred spaces during ceremonies, or wearing it in unsuitable locations like nightclubs or crowded trains is definitely not appropriate behavior.
Taking Photos in Temples or Shrines
You can take photos in temples or shrines, but be respectful. Respect is important whether you’re wearing a kimono or not. Many tourists enjoy capturing their kimono experience at cultural and religious sites like Fushimi Inari Shrine or Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto. That’s okay, but always follow the temple or shrine’s rules.
For instance, an appropriate behavior is posing naturally in open spaces or near torii gates without obstructing pathways or disturbing worshippers. However, taking group selfies inside prayer halls, blocking the flow of visitors, or using props that could appear disrespectful (e.g., large props near altars).
When Do Japanese People Wear Kimono Today?
While kimonos aren’t as common as they once were, the Japanese still wear them at formal and traditional events. Weddings are a great occasion to wear a kimono. Brides often wear a white kimono, called a shiro-muku, during the ceremony and may change into a brightly colored uchikake for the reception.
On Coming-of-Age Day, young women celebrating their 20th birthday wear furisode, a type of kimono with long, flowing sleeves, to mark their transition into adulthood. During summer festivals, you’ll often see people wearing yukata, a lightweight, informal kimono made of cotton.
Finally, kimonos are a big part of traditional tea ceremonies. They add a touch of elegance to the formal and spiritual nature of the event.
