The Kyoto Gionya Kimono Experience is a unique way for tourists to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and traditions that are still practiced to this day.
What better way to remember Kyoto than visiting one of many historical sites in a Japanese style Kimono? This unique experience is one of a kind and a must for any tourists who love culture and picture taking.
First Things First
Book your Kyoto Kimono Experience via Klook.
You can choose from a variety of Kimono packages that will suit your budget.
Kyoto Gionya Kimono Rental
290 Daigochō, Shimogyō-ku, Kyōto-shi,
Kyōto-fu 600-8106, Japan
Hours: 9:00am-7:00 pm
How to get there:
Subway: Goju Station Exit #2
Bus: Bus No. 5 / 26 / 101 from Kyoto Station, get off at Gojō Station.
Once inside you will have plenty of Kimonos to choose from.
Pricing depends on the type of material or fabric the kimono is made of, and the more expensive the more extravagant and detailed the patterns.
A standard women’s Kimono package will cost you P1,668 and comes with a kimono, obi belt, footwear, socks, and a bag.
People will assist you in finding a kimono that fits. The attendants are friendly and helpful, and speak English, Japanese, and Mandarin.
Women can also opt for traditional hair and makeup styling for an extra fee.
For men, a standard Kimono/Yukata start at around P1596 and include; Men’s Kimono/Yukata, undergarment, waist band, white toe socks (optional), sandals.
All kimonos must be returned by 7 pm the same day. So you will have plenty of time to explore some of the tourists’ sites in the area.
The best place to visit that’s near is Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. you can reach the shrine via taxi.
Fushimi Shrine is a popular destination for local and foreign tourists and you will see plenty of visitors also wearing kimonos.
The most notable feature of Fushimi Inari Tashi Shrine are the thousands of Torii that line the paths to other shrines on the sites.
(Torii, are a type of traditional Japanese gates that can be found in front or inside Shinto Shrines and they represent a transition from the profane to the sacred.)
There are a lot of visitors year-round, so finding a good spot for pictures might be a bit of a challenge but if you are patient enough you’ll get the perfect shot.
There is also a small street food market that is beside the entrance to the Shrine that’s worth checking out. You can buy small trinkets and try some traditional Japanese sweets.
Final Thoughts
The Kimono and Yukata are still very much in fashion in Japan. It is not uncommon to see men and women wearing them in the city.
Getting a chance to walk around in a Kimono is an immersive experience that you can only have in Japan. Best for couples and picture taking.
Book your Kyoto Kimono Experience via Klook.
Live an Awesome Life,
SEAN NOLAN of Team Our Awesome Planet
Disclosure: Our Kimono Experience was courtesy of Klook. I wrote this article with my biases, opinions, and insights.
P.S. Walking around modern-day Kyoto in traditional sandals was no easy feat 😉 Try to find a pair that fit properly or wear socks.
the pictures are amazing. And a Kimono will definitely add some more Japan atmosphere during your stay in Kyoto.
Indeed. Thank you for the comment, Iris 🙂