Asakusa Kimono Rental Guide: How to Match Kimono and Obi for a Cute Look

In recent years, there has been a resurgence in Japanese culture, and Asakusa has become increasingly popular for kimono rentals.

When you see people walking around Asakusa in cute kimonos, you might also think, “I want to explore Asakusa in a kimono!”

If you’re planning to rent a kimono in Asakusa, you probably want to express your individuality and create a lovely outfit with obis and accessories.

So, in this article, we’ll introduce “basic knowledge of kimonos and obis” and “recommended combinations and tips” in a way that’s easy to understand for kimono rental beginners!

We’ll also tell you which locations in Asakusa match each combination, so use this as a reference for your Asakusa sightseeing!

Combining Obis for Kimono Rentals in Asakusa

First and foremost, when you decide to rent a kimono in Asakusa, you’re probably most concerned about the combination of the kimono and obi.

There are so many options that it’s easy to become overwhelmed and unsure of what to choose.

It can be quite confusing if you’re not familiar with kimono etiquette. When in doubt, you can always rely on the staff at kimono rental shops in Asakusa to make the right choice for you. However, it’s nice to be able to customize your outfit according to your preferences.

It would be wonderful to select your kimono and obi with a sense of style, just like choosing Western clothing. To do that, let’s start by learning the basics!

Basics of Combining Kimonos and Obis

The fundamental aspect of combinations is “formality” (referred to as “kaku” in Japanese). In simple terms, both the kimono and obi have different levels of formality, and it’s essential to choose them according to the occasion.

There are three broad categories of Japanese clothing: formal attire, fashionable attire, and casual attire.

Wearing casual attire to a formal event would be embarrassing, right?

That’s why it’s important to wear kimono and obi of the appropriate “formality” for the occasion!

The formality of kimono and obi can be categorized as follows, with dyed kimono being more formal than woven ones. Conversely, woven obi are considered more formal than dyed ones:

【Kimono Formality (Dyed > Woven)】 Formal > Semi-Formal > Informal > Fashionable > Casual
【Obi Formality (Woven > Dyed)】Maru Obi > Fukuro Obi > Nagoya Obi > Hanhaba Obi

For kimono rentals in Asakusa, the most common combination is casual kimonos with hanhaba obi. Specific types include komon and tsumugi, which are perfect for everyday wear, as well as yukata, well-known for summer festivals.

Half-width obis are also used for yukata, making them one of the most familiar types of obis for us. Generally, it’s recommended to choose obis that are more formal than the kimono.

Three Key Points for Choosing Colors and Patterns

One of the most challenging aspects of creating an outfit is deciding on the color combination. Depending on the patterns, it can be quite tricky, and you might think, “I picked something I like, but it doesn’t quite work.”

Moreover, if you’ve rented a kimono in Asakusa several times before, you might want to try something different from your usual look.

So, from here on, we’ll introduce three key points to remember when selecting colors and patterns. By choosing colors that suit you and showcasing your personality, you can look even more adorable than others when exploring Asakusa!

Combining Kimonos and Obis with “Similar Colors”

First and foremost, one popular way to customize your kimono and obi is by combining similar colors. It’s common to use the colors from the kimono’s patterns in the obi and accessories.

For example, if your kimono has shades of pink with white or red patterns, you can choose a white obi and incorporate pink or red into your accessories. Using a deeper shade of red can create a more refined look.

If you want to bring out cuteness, it’s recommended to go with warm colors for both the kimono and obi.

Even with cool colors, you can create a cute coordination by selecting larger patterns and being creative with your accessories.

If you opt for similar colors, you can’t go wrong, making it a recommended combination for kimono rental beginners in Asakusa!

Combining Kimonos and Obis with “Complementary Colors”

If you’re someone who thinks, “Safe combinations are boring,”

“I don’t like outfits that are too similar to what others wear,” complementary colors are recommended for you.

For example, if you choose a blue-toned kimono, you can select red-toned obis and accessories.

By contrasting colors, you can create a highly individualized look. This combination is quite popular among young girls in Asakusa.

If you feel like the coordination isn’t quite coming together, consider using an obiage in a color that bridges between the kimono and obi.

Even with complementary colors, if you choose from the colors within the kimono’s patterns, it will create a coordinated look with a unique touch♪

Adding Contrast to Kimono and Obi Patterns with Size

Just like with colors, pattern selection is also crucial.

As a basic rule, when the kimono has large patterns, opt for a smaller patterned obi. Conversely, when the kimono has small patterns, choosing a larger patterned obi can create a more dynamic impression.

Even with a somewhat plain kimono, combining it with a boldly patterned obi and adding accent colors through accessories can give you an adorable and well-put-together look.

This style has become quite popular among young girls in Asakusa. Colorful and modern patterns can instantly add a cute touch, making them highly recommended♪

Tourist Spots That Pair Well with Kimono and Obi Combinations!

Now, based on the three previously mentioned points, we will showcase photos of individuals who rented kimonos in Asakusa and provide recommended customizations and tips.

Additionally, we will introduce recommended spots in Asakusa where your kimono coordination will match perfectly. If you’re wondering, “Where in Asakusa is best to go with my own chosen combination?” or “I want to go to a place in Asakusa that complements my outfit,” then feel free to use this as a reference.

Asakusa attracts many foreign tourists, so when you stroll around in a kimono, you might even be asked for photos. It’s a great opportunity to feel a bit like a celebrity♪

Recommended Monochromatic Coordination for Asakusa Sightseeing

First, let’s introduce a cute monochromatic customization with shades of pink that is perfect for sightseeing in Asakusa.

Pink and white are already a classic combination! You can either go all-out with the same color for all accessories like the example on the right, or, like the one on the left, add a pop of color to your bag. Both styles work well.

For an overall soft-toned coordination like this, we recommend visiting “Asakusa Hanatsuki-Do,” a shop famous in Asakusa for its giant melon bread. The shop owner decorates it with colorful windmills, making it very visually appealing. With a black background like in the photo, even a subtle and simple coordination will stand out♪

Recommended Complementary Coordination for Asakusa Sightseeing

Next, let’s introduce the recommended complementary color customization for Asakusa. A blue kimono paired with a contrasting red obi and a yellow obi-dome is the key. The red serves as an accent, creating a sophisticated impression.

Blue kimonos tend to give off a cool vibe, but with large floral patterns, they can enhance the cuteness. When you opt for a complementary color customization, it’s a great idea to visit serene spots with natural or retro-style buildings to further enhance your kimono.

Exploring the Hanayashiki Street in Asakusa or taking photos with the river and Skytree in the background at Sumida Park are also recommended!

Recommended Pattern Customization for Asakusa Sightseeing

Lastly, here are some recommended pattern customizations for Asakusa.

The key here is to create contrast by pairing a kimono with small patterns and an obi with large patterns, as seen on the left, or a kimono with large patterns and an obi with small patterns, as seen on the right.

Having patterns on both the kimono and obi adds more individuality to your outfit, allowing you to enjoy various combinations.

Choosing simple patterns can give an elegant look, while opting for colorful and modern patterns enhances the uniqueness and cuteness even further♡

If you’re worried about creating a cluttered impression with various patterns, you can add or subtract accent colors to your accessories to create balance.

This versatile customization can hold its own even in the bustling atmosphere of Nakamise Shopping Street, where various shops line the street.

Asakusa has many other recommended spots to offer, so why not customize your kimono to your liking with Rika Kimono and explore Asakusa in style?♪

Author of this article

Kimono rental Rikawafuku Asakusa store
(Operating company: TripFarm Co., Ltd.)
By 2023, more than 230,000 people will be wearing kimonos in a year
2-16-9 HULIC & New Kaminarimon 6F, Kaminarimon, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0034
3 minutes walk from Asakusa Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
1 minute walk to Kaminarimon

1. Asakusa kimono rental plan list
2. Asakusa yukata rental plan list

Click here for the website of our sister store, Kano-Wafuku（浅草の着物レンタル 花乃和服）.