If you rent a kimono in Kamakura in the winter, do you need to take precautions against the cold? Recommended cold weather measures

If you plan to rent a kimono in Kamakura during winter, it’s essential to take measures to stay warm while enjoying your sightseeing.

In this article, we will introduce recommended cold weather precautions for kimono rentals and unique ways to enjoy Kamakura in the winter.

※ This article is supervised by Rikawafuku Kimono Kamakura Shop, operated by TripFarm Co., Ltd.

Cold Weather Precautions are a Must for Kamakura Kimono Rentals in Winter

Originally, when wearing a kimono, you layer undergarments and a long juban, and you can even wrap a towel around your abdomen and waist for adjustments. Kimonos are surprisingly warm.

By taking precautions against the cold, you can enjoy sightseeing in Kamakura in a stylish rental kimono without worrying about the cold.

Cold Weather Precautions While Wearing Kimono

To enjoy Kamakura sightseeing in a warm kimono rental outfit, proper preparation is crucial.

Here, let’s take a closer look at cold weather precautions when wearing a rental kimono, mainly things you should prepare at home.

Scarves and Shawls

Rikawafuku Kimono Kamakura Shop offers scarves and tippets for rent, but it’s also recommended to wear your own scarf or a shawl that gently wraps around your entire body.

Since there may be a limited selection of scarves available that match your kimono, it’s reassuring to choose a scarf that complements your kimono outfit.

Even when paired with lace kimonos, you can enjoy stylish kimono rentals, so it’s highly recommended. For more information about lace kimonos, please check here!
＞Lace Kimono Rentals are Popular in Kamakura Too! Rikawafuku Kimono Kamakura Shop Offers Over 50 Selections!

Gloves and Hand Warmers

Velvet and lace material gloves, which also pair well with Western clothing, are excellent choices for kimono rentals.

However, in the case of lace materials, they have good ventilation and may not provide high insulation. Therefore, it’s recommended to have hand warmers ready to warm your hands quickly.

Warm Innerwear and Leggings

Wearing winter-specific clothing like Heattech innerwear and leggings underneath your kimono is a good idea.

Especially on very cold days, wearing two layers of warm innerwear is just right. In the case of kimono rentals, you may need to wear tabi (split-toe socks), so leggings that leave the toes exposed are more suitable than tights.

If You Want to Enjoy Kimono Rentals Stylishly with Cold Weather Precautions

Wouldn’t it be great to have items that not only provide cold weather protection but also enhance your fashion sense?

Here, we’ll introduce items that are effective for both cold weather precautions and stylish kimono rental outfits.

Boots

While traditional Japanese footwear for kimonos is often associated with zori sandals, “boots” that cover your ankles are essential items for keeping your feet warm in winter kimono outfits.

These versatile boots not only provide warmth but also add a touch of fashion, allowing you to experience a high-class atmosphere.

Boots are not available for rent, so please bring your own!

Haori (Kimono Jacket)

The indispensable “haori” in winter Kamakura is an item that you simply layer over your kimono.

It often comes as a set with kimono rentals and offers the opportunity to consider the balance with your kimono. With a wide range of options for both kimono and haori, your kimono outfit possibilities expand.

Fur Obi Accessories

帯飾り, a focal point for kimono rental coordination.

In addition to the obi decoration, choosing fur for items like scarves and bags will add consistency and make your kimono rental coordination more wintery.

Additional items can be added on the day of dressing, so be sure to incorporate them into your kimono coordination.

Fluffy Winter Bag

While not extremely warm, a fluffy winter bag is a popular item that enhances femininity and elegance, making it essential for winter kimono rental coordination.

A “fluffy winter bag” that’s Instagram-worthy is reassuring to have and shouldn’t be left out of your winter kimono rental coordination.

Fluffy Muffler

A “fluffy muffler” that feels comfortable to touch and keeps your neck warm is also an essential item for winter kimono coordination.

It’s a delightful feature that it can be paired with various kimono patterns, from antique styles to popular lace styles and monochrome.

Lilac Kimono Rental Kamakura Store offers rentals, but they are limited in quantity, so be sure to check.

＞

If You Feel Cold When Wearing a Kimono, Here Are Some Recommendations!

When you’re out and about in Kamakura during the winter and start feeling chilly, we have some recommendations for how to stay warm. Let’s take a closer look at these measures.

Sightseeing in a Rickshaw with Excellent Cold Weather Protection

Many people feel the desire to explore the historic city of Kamakura in a traditional rickshaw. In winter, rickshaws equipped with a roof-like canopy (poro) and seats with hand warmers and cozy blankets are perfect for protecting you from rain and snow.

Rickshaw pullers are knowledgeable about hidden gems, the latest information, and local restaurant recommendations. They may also take pictures for you. So, rickshaw rides are a must for winter sightseeing in Kamakura.

Cozy Breaks at Warm Cafes

Kamakura is filled with stylish cafes, making it a great idea to take a break and warm up at a cafe on cold days. These cafes serve a variety of treats like waffles, crepes, doughnuts, Kamakura-style pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee or tea. Enjoy their unique cafe menus.

Relax and warm up with a hot drink and delicious sweets.

Warm Up from the Inside with Kamakura’s Gourmet Delights

Kamakura, surrounded by nature, offers gourmet delights featuring fresh mountain and sea ingredients. You can savor local specialties like kama-meshi (rice with shirasu fish), curry, pizza, pasta, and traditional Japanese meals with thick grilled fish.

Enjoy a hearty meal that warms you up from the inside, whether it’s for brunch or lunch, before heading out to explore the streets of Kamakura.

For Couples, Holding Hands to Stay Warm

Winter is the season when people long for human warmth. One effective way to keep warm when enjoying a kimono date in Kamakura during the cold season is by subtly holding hands with your partner. This not only naturally increases intimacy but also warms your hands and hearts.

Embrace the winter chill with the warmth of your love.

If you’re a couple looking to enjoy kimono rental in Kamakura, check out this plan!

Kamakura Kimono Couple Plan

Top 3 Popular Tourist Spots for New Year’s Visits and Winter in Kamakura

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, closely related to Minamoto no Yoritomo, who founded the Kamakura Shogunate, is an ancient shrine with a history spanning about 800 years. It serves as a symbol of Kamakura, witnessing the city’s changes over the centuries.

The shrine’s New Year’s visit attracts over 2.5 million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular shrines in the country. In winter, don’t miss the beautiful winter peonies blooming in the “Shin’en Botan Teien” (Sacred Garden Peony Garden).

Hase-dera Temple

Established in 736 (Tenpyo 8), Hase-dera Temple is famous for its stunning beauty throughout the year, featuring various flowers, including hydrangeas and cherry blossoms. It is often referred to as the “Pure Land of the West.”

During the year-end and New Year period, the temple hosts events such as ringing the New Year’s Eve bell and a ceremony to ward off evil and invite blessings, making it one of the top spots for New Year’s visits in the Kanto region.

Honkaku-ji Temple

Honkaku-ji Temple, with a history dating back to the construction by Ashikaga Mochiuji on the site of Kamakura’s Eido Temple, was dedicated to the Ebisu deity, known for bringing good fortune in business.

During the New Year’s period, events like “Hatsu Ebisu” (first Ebisu) over the first three days of January and “Hon Ebisu” on January 10th draw many visitors, seeking blessings for business success.

If you plan to enjoy kimono rental and explore Kamakura during the winter season, we’ve listed some recommended kimono stroll courses here:
Kimono Stroll Courses to Enjoy After Renting Kimono in Kamakura

About Kamakura’s Winter Temperatures and Cold Weather

Kamakura, located at the southern tip of the Miura Peninsula, is surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces Sagami Bay to the south. Due to the hills blocking cold winds, Kamakura experiences relatively mild temperatures year-round.

The area has been a favored retreat and vacation spot for prominent individuals since the Meiji era, owing to its reputation for having a moderate climate with minimal annual temperature fluctuations.

Starting from November, temperatures can drop below 15 degrees Celsius. From December to February, although snowfall is rare, the average temperature hovers around 5 degrees Celsius, and temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing, leading to light snowfall. Thus, proper cold-weather precautions are necessary during these months.

Conclusion

When it comes to staying warm in your kimono rental coordination, it’s crucial to focus on protecting areas that are prone to cold drafts, such as your neck, hands, and feet. Find items that both keep you warm and enhance your style, and enjoy exploring Kamakura during the winter season in your rental kimono.

Author of This Article

Rikawafuku Kamakura Store
（Operated by: TripFarm Co., Ltd.）
〒248-0006
2-B, TI Building II, 2-12-37 Komachi, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
4 minutes walk from JR Yokosuka Line / Shonan-Shinjuku Line “Kamakura Station”
4 minutes walk from Enoshima Electric Railway “Kamakura Station”

1. List of Kamakura Kimono and Yukata Rental Plans