Tips when renting a kimono in Kyoto on a rainy day

“Thinking of renting a kimono in Kyoto for sightseeing?”

But what if it rains on the day of your reservation? You might wonder if it’s easier to just stick with regular clothes.

Don’t give up on kimono rental in Kyoto just yet! Although it might be a concern if you’re not used to wearing a kimono, enjoying sightseeing on a rainy day is not impossible! There are unique ways to enjoy Kyoto in the rain!

You might worry, “Can you even rent kimonos on rainy days?” Rest assured, at Rikawafuku Kimono Rental in Kyoto, you can rent kimonos as usual, even on rainy days.

In this article, we will share tips on how to enjoy Kyoto in a kimono rental on a rainy day!

Please refer to it as a guide.

※This article is supervised by Rikawafuku Kimono Rental in Kyoto, operated by TripFarm Co., Ltd.

Is Kimono Rental Possible on Rainy Days?

Most kimono rental shops in Kyoto likely offer rentals even on rainy days. However, it’s recommended to check terms and conditions, as there might be cleaning fees if the kimono gets dirty.

Is It More Advantageous to Rent from Rikawafuku on Rainy Days?

At Rikawafuku Kimono Rental Kyoto, renting on a rainy day might mean fewer customers, allowing for more attentive service, and a higher chance of getting popular kimonos even if you arrive late.

Staff might also have more time to help with complex obi (sash) ties. Depending on your sightseeing itinerary, rainy days might even turn out to be advantageous.

Currently, there are no specific rainy day campaigns, but it would be great if future campaigns include umbrella rentals!

Coordinating Kimonos with Umbrellas on Rainy Days for a Stylish Look?

Rainy days might dampen spirits, but coordinating your kimono with the color of your umbrella can lift your mood! Choose a rental kimono that matches the color of your own umbrella.

＞Check out Rikawafuku’s Kimono Rental Plans in Kyoto here

Precautions Before Staining Rental Kimonos on Rainy Days

The biggest worry on rainy days is staining the kimono. You might wonder, “Do I have to compensate if it gets dirty?”

At Rikawafuku Kimono Rental Kyoto, there are no additional charges for getting wet in the rain.

Other shops also generally do not charge extra for rain-related stains. Some shops offer insurance for peace of mind.

Insurance covers not only rain stains but also accidental food spills, making it reassuring for those who plan to enjoy street food.

Also, many rental kimonos are made of polyester, which is more stain-resistant than silk kimonos.

Kimono Dressing Points for Rainy Days

What should you be mindful of, or ask for, when getting dressed in a kimono on a rainy day?

Like regular clothes, the most likely part of the kimono to get dirty in the rain is the hem.

To prevent this, it’s important to have the hem slightly shorter than usual.

Kimonos for casual strolls, like those from Kyoto Kimono Rental, can be dressed shorter without any issues. A shorter hem also makes it easier to walk.

For formal occasions like wearing a visiting kimono, the hem should be long enough to cover the heels, so keep that in mind.

If you’re bringing your own raincoat, you can do a ‘hem lift’ by folding the hem up and securing it around the obi area.

Be Mindful of Your Movements on Rainy Days!

The basics remain the same whether it’s a sunny or rainy day.

Keep your back straight and posture good, and move slowly!

Rushing can make your hem wetter and give a restless impression to those around you.

Walk with small steps and slightly turned-in toes.

Imagining the elegant walk of a maiko might be helpful. This way, you can also prevent the kimono from getting disheveled.

When holding an umbrella, be mindful not to expose your arms too much for a graceful appearance.

You might also use a taxi on a rainy day. Be careful not to touch the wet car body when getting in. The basic movement is to enter bottom-first, but on rainy days, you can enter head-first to prevent the hem from touching the car.

Adopt the demure demeanor of a Japanese woman and add elegance to a rainy Kyoto!

Tourist Spots in Kyoto That Are Safe Even on Rainy Days!

Rainy days might make it challenging to enjoy strolling and eating out as you would on a sunny day.

Spending a lot of time outdoors requires extra caution, so using taxis, trains, or buses to enjoy a sophisticated trip might be a good idea.

Let’s introduce some indoor Kyoto temples that are beautiful in the rain and can be enjoyed from inside.

Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art

The museum’s interior garden creates a harmonious space blending nature and art. Not just the exhibits, but the building and its surroundings also have artistic charm. Easily accessible, it’s about an 8-minute walk from Higashiyama Station on the Subway Tozai Line and about a 16-minute walk from Sanjo Station on the Keihan Line and Sanjo Keihan Station on the Subway Tozai Line, making it a recommended spot for those renting kimonos in the Gion area.

Tofukuji Temple

Famous for its autumn leaves, Tofukuji is also a recommended temple for rainy days. Its easy access from Kyoto Station via one stop on the JR Nara Line is a plus.

The Tsuten-kyo Bridge and Gaun-kyo Bridge along the approach have roofs, allowing you to walk without an umbrella.

During the rainy season, you can enjoy the lush greenery of the maple trees, and it’s less crowded than the peak autumn foliage season.

Kotoin Temple, Daitoku-ji

It may not be a familiar spot, but it’s a beautiful place where rain-wet cobblestones weave a picturesque scene with the trees.

Located about 40 minutes by city bus from Kyoto Station, it’s perfect for quiet introspection.

The main hall, surrounded by gardens on three sides, makes you want to stay forever. Enjoying matcha while gazing at the garden offers a moment of luxurious tranquility.

Rengeji Temple

This temple also boasts a stunning garden. Surrounded by a landscape resembling a painting, you can immerse yourself in the scent of rain-soaked moss and fresh greenery. The serene ambiance matches perfectly with a kimono.

Though it’s about 40 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station, it’s a spot worth visiting at least once.

Rain-Proof Items for Kimono Rental

Exploring Kyoto in a kimono on a rainy day requires a lot of care.

If you’re thinking, “This seems hard, maybe too much trouble,” don’t worry!

There are plenty of rain-proof accessories for kimonos.

Why not enjoy a unique rainy day coordinate with items you can’t use on sunny days?

Let’s introduce some recommended rain gear for kimonos!

Zori (Sandal) Covers

The standard footwear for kimonos is tabi socks and zori sandals, but the cloth tabi can get wet and cold.

This is where zori covers come in handy.

These transparent covers fit over the front of the zori, allowing you to show off their cute design while keeping the rain at bay.

There are also rain-specific zori available, which might be a good option too.

Rain Coat for Kimonos

If you plan to wear kimonos more often, consider getting a kimono raincoat.

It covers the kimono entirely down to the feet, ensuring you can walk around without worrying about the rain.

There are two-piece types, with separate upper and lower parts (hem protection), so choose according to your preference.

They’re available at a reasonable price, starting from a few thousand yen, and come in various colors and patterns.

Finding your favorite can make even a rainy day outing enjoyable!

Japanese-style Umbrellas

An essential item for rainy days is an umbrella. To match with a kimono, you’ll want to choose a cute Japanese-style umbrella.

You can have fun looking for one at Kyoto’s variety stores, or you can find a wide selection online.

There are umbrellas with Bingata dye, a famous Okinawan textile dyeing technique.

Imagine coordinating your umbrella with your chosen kimono – it might add to the excitement of your trip!

We’ve covered some important tips for renting kimonos on rainy days.

If you think it’s still a bit challenging, remember that some dirt is inevitable on rainy days. Don’t worry too much and enjoy your sightseeing!

Wear a beautiful kimono in rainy Kyoto and make many wonderful memories!

About the Author

Rikawafuku Kimono Rental operates four shops in Kyoto in Arashiyama, Gion, Kiyomizudera, and near Kyoto Station, with over 180,000 users annually in 2022!
They offer kimono dressing plans starting from 3,500 yen and hair setting plans from 5,000 yen.
Located near popular tourist spots like Togetsukyo Bridge, Kiyomizudera, Yasaka Koshindo, and Yasaka Shrine!
Rikawafuku Kimono Rental in Kyoto
Rikawafuku Gion Shop
Rikawafuku Arashiyama Shop
Rikawafuku Kiyomizudera Shop
Rikawafuku Kyoto Station Front Shop