10 sightseeing courses after renting a kimono in Kyoto!

If you’re traveling to Kyoto, many women might want to rent a kimono and explore the city. We’ll introduce a recommended itinerary to enhance your girls’ trip, featuring Instagram-worthy Kyoto tourist spots and shrines known for love fulfillment.

※This article is supervised by Takakumo Ken, Director of Kyoto Kimono Rental Rikawafuku, operated by TripFarm Corporation.

Half-Day Exploration Course in Kyoto with Kimono Rental

Centered around Kyoto’s popular areas like Rakuchu (Central Kyoto) and Rakuto (Eastern Kyoto), here’s a course you’d want to explore while renting a kimono in Kyoto.

This is a sightseeing course ideal for renting a kimono in Kyoto’s Gion area.

Wondering where to rent a kimono in Kyoto?

Kiyomizu Temple and Surrounding Area with Kimono Rental

1. Duration: 3.5 hours
2. Places to Visit: Ninenzaka, Yasaka Koshin-do, Kiyomizu Temple, Kodaiji Temple, Café
3. Recommended for: Girls’ trips, Couples

If you only have half a day for kimono rental in Kyoto, thoroughly exploring the Kiyomizu Temple area is a popular choice.

The Kiyomizu Temple area isn’t just about the temple itself, but also includes Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Yasaka Koshin-do, Kodaiji Temple, and more, representing Kyoto’s iconic tourist destinations.

Renting a kimono at Rikawafuku Kiyomizu Temple Store → Sightseeing at Kiyomizu Temple → Eating and shopping around Ninenzaka → Visiting Yasaka Koshin-do → Kodaiji Temple (if time allows) → Returning the kimono

This flow is a classic popular course. If you’re interested in this course’s experience, including a soft-cream shop, check this out:

>>Kyoto Lace Kimono Rental Coordination Image

Enjoying soft-cream while strolling,

Taking kimono photos at retro spots,

And resting at a cafe when tired from walking.

This is a classic popular course for couples and female students on their girls’ trip.

For more detailed information about the Kiyomizu Temple area, see “Exploring Stylish Cafes Around Kiyomizu Temple in a Kimono Rental”

Kyoto Kimono Rental Course from Yasaka Shrine to Kiyomizu Temple

1. Duration: 3.5 hours
2. Places to Visit: Yasaka Shrine, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Koshin-do
3. Recommended for: Couples, Girls’ Trip

Yasaka Shrine, famous for the Gion Festival in July, is a popular tourist spot in Kyoto.

Apart from warding off misfortune and praying for business prosperity, what’s delightful for women is the shrine’s benefits for love and beauty! The “Utsukushigozen-no-Yaegaki Shrine” inside Yasaka Shrine is a beauty prayer spot where you can apply beauty water to your skin.

Descending from Yasaka Shrine towards Kodaiji Temple, you’ll find “Nene’s Path” running north to south. Reaching “Ishibei-koji Lane,” you’ll discover a tranquil area filled with the old capital’s atmosphere.

Descending Ninenzaka and reaching Yasaka-dori, there’s a recommended photo spot with the five-storied pagoda of Hokan-ji Temple in the background. Mornings are quieter and less crowded.

Just a short climb up Ninenzaka is the Instagram-worthy Yasaka Koshin-do, famous for its colorful balls.

For more detailed information about Yasaka Koshin-do, please see: A Complete Guide to Visiting Yasaka Koshin-do in a Kimono Rental in Kyoto

From Yasaka-dori and Sanneizaka (Sannenzaka), Kiyomizu Temple is just a short walk away. Kiyomizu Temple’s main hall is built without nails using cypress boards. Its beauty throughout the seasons is truly worthy of its World Heritage status.

The journey from Kiyomizu Temple, down Kiyomizu-zaka, and Sanneizaka, leads to the Kyoto Instagram hot spot, Yasaka Koshin-do.

The colorful amulets hanging in the hall, known as “Kukuri Saru,” are meant to suppress desires to fulfill wishes.

Another popular Instagram spot is Fushimi Inari’s “Senbon Torii” (Thousand Torii Gates).

Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for praying for good harvests and business prosperity. The vermillion-painted tunnel of torii gates is a favorite among foreigners.

If you’re enjoying a girls’ trip with a kimono rental in Kyoto, why not take a taxi from Yasaka Koshin-do to Fushimi Inari? It’s quick, and you won’t mess up your kimono.

For more about Fushimi Inari Shrine, see: Kimono Rental at Rikawafuku for Fushimi Inari Shrine | How to Tour Fushimi Inari

Kyoto Kimono Rental Course from Kiyomizu Temple to Yasaka and Fushimi Inari

1. Duration: 4 hours
2. Places to Visit: Kiyomizu Temple, Sannenzaka, Yasaka Koshin-do, Fushimi Inari Shrine
3. Recommended for: Couples, Girls’ Trip</li >
4. Note: To save time, it’s recommended to take a taxi from Gion Shijo or Fushimi Inari Shrine

The route from Kiyomizu Temple to Fushimi Inari is a recommended sightseeing course. Kiyomizu Stage is made of cypress boards assembled without nails, its beauty in each season making it deserving of its World Heritage status.

Passing Kiyomizu-zaka and Sannenzaka, you reach Yasaka Koshin-do, a popular Instagram spot in Kyoto.

The “Senbon Torii” at Fushimi Inari Shrine is another popular Instagram location. The shrine is known for praying for good harvests and business prosperity, and the red torii gate tunnel is popular among foreign visitors.

If you’re enjoying a girls’ trip with kimono rental in Kyoto, consider taking a taxi from Yasaka Koshin-do to Fushimi Inari. It’s quick and keeps your kimono neat.

For more information about Fushimi Inari Shrine, see: Kimono Rental at Rikawafuku for Fushimi Inari Shrine | How to Tour Fushimi Inari

Kyoto Station Kimono Rental Course: Keage and Nanzen-ji

1. Duration: 3 to 4 hours
2. Sites to Visit: Keage Incline, Nanzen-ji Aqueduct
3. Recommended for: Those who want to take photos in a kimono at famous Kyoto tourist spots

Have you ever seen photos of the tracks at Keage Incline? This spot, reachable from Keage Station in about 15 minutes by subway from Kyoto Station, became incredibly popular around 2020-2021 (as evidenced by the surge in hashtag posts on Instagram).

Today, it offers a cinematic experience where you can take photos on the unused tracks, making you feel as if you’re in a movie.

In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, providing a stunning backdrop for kimono photos.

For more guidance on enjoying kimono rental at Keage Incline, check out this article:
＞Rikawafuku is the best choice for kimono rental at Keage Incline in Kyoto

Additionally, a walkable distance from Keage Incline is the Nanzen-ji Aqueduct.

The aqueduct at Nanzen-ji, with its arch-shaped brick structure, is a classic spot for kimono photos.

It’s also particularly photogenic when wearing retro or antique-style kimonos.

At Kyoto Kimono Rental, retro kimonos are trendy, so consider visiting Nanzen-ji’s Aqueduct if you rent a retro kimono.

For rental images of antique and retro kimonos, see:
＞Kyoto Antique & Retro Kimono Rental Coordination Images

Standing in a kimono and taking photos like this is adorable.

Plus, it’s a surprisingly convenient spot for tourism and photo shoots, even on rainy days, as you’re sheltered by the structure.

This is a fantastic tourist course where you can enjoy a movie-like world after renting a kimono at Kyoto Station.

For kimono rental at Kyoto Station, please use Rikawafuku Kyoto Station Front Store!

Kamogawa to Yasaka Shrine and Hanami-koji Course

1. Duration: 2 to 3 hours
2. Destinations: Yasaka Shrine, Kamogawa, Hanami-koji Street
3. Recommended for: Those who simply want to wear a kimono

Kamogawa is famous for its summer “Noryo-Yuka” (raised wooden platforms), but right after crossing the Shijo Ohashi bridge on the right is the Kyoto Minami-za theater.

With its red lanterns and “Maneki” signboards, it embodies the essence of Japanese tradition. Walking down Shijo Street from the Shijo Ohashi bridge, you’ll reach Yasaka Shrine.

South of the space between Shijo Ohashi bridge and Yasaka Shrine lies Hanami-koji Street.

Once part of the grounds of Kennin-ji Temple, the area has transformed into a tourist spot lined with townhouses, tea houses, and restaurants, oozing the charm of the Geisha district. You might even encounter a Maiko.

During the cherry blossom season, the street is bustling with tourists taking photos in rented kimonos.

Hanami-koji Street lives up to its name, offering lovely views, especially recommended when visiting Gion. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Rikawafuku Gion Store.

At the northeast corner of Hanami-koji Street, you’ll find “Yojiya Gion Store,” famous for its blotting paper. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs.

The Gion and Kawaramachi area is home to numerous cafes, making this route also ideal for those planning a cafe-hopping experience while in a kimono.

If you have around 4-5 hours for sightseeing, combining the above course with the Keage Incline and Nanzen-ji course is recommended for a delightful Kyoto experience.

Gion to Keage is just a 10-minute train ride or taxi ride, making it a recommended combination.

Kyoto Imperial Palace, Nijo Castle to Shimogamo Shrine, Kamigamo Shrine Course

From the Heian to Meiji periods, Kyoto Imperial Palace was the emperor’s residence. Today, it’s open to the public year-round. The Shishinden and Seiryoden halls evoke tales from The Tale of Genji.

It’s about a 30-minute walk from Kyoto Imperial Palace to Nijo Castle. Nijo Castle, a stage for historical events like the Meiji Restoration, is also a must-visit World Heritage site. The area around the Palace and Nijo Castle features beautiful gardens like Shin’en Garden, Shokoku-ji Temple, and Nashinoki Shrine.

Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine to the west are among Kyoto’s oldest shrines. The Aoi Festival, one of Kyoto’s three major festivals, is jointly hosted by Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine. The world heritage Shimogamo Shrine houses the Aioi Shrine, a popular spot among women for love-related prayers.

Shisendo to Manshuin Monzeki Course

For a half-day trip in Kyoto with kimono rental, Shisendo and Manshuin Monzeki are recommended spots. The distance from Shisendo to Manshuin Monzeki is about 14-15 minutes on foot. The narrow path invites a leisurely stroll.

Shisendo was a retreat for Edo-era literati. Its orderly purified path and stunning garden, especially vibrant in autumn, attract many visitors.

Manshuin Monzeki, with its noble lineage of imperial priests, features a solemn building reminiscent of Katsura Imperial Villa and a Zen rock garden. It’s like stepping into the era of Heian nobility.

Arashiyama Kimono Rental Course

1. Duration: 2 hours
2. Destinations: Bamboo Grove, Kimono Forest, Togetsukyo Bridge
3. Recommended for: Autumn foliage season, Cherry blossom season, Couples’ trip

Arashiyama, arguably Kyoto’s most popular tourist spot in 2022, is renowned for its nature centered around the Katsura River and the surrounding mountains. The area around Arashiyama Station, filled with souvenir shops and street food stalls, is perfect for a casual 2-hour stroll.

Its appeal includes the ability to enjoy the area even with an afternoon kimono rental.

A must-visit in Arashiyama when wearing a kimono is “Kimono Forest.” Located beside the platform of Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Line, it welcomes you with 600 poles wrapped in Kyo-Yuzen fabric. Beautiful both day and night, it’s guaranteed to be Instagram-worthy!

Arashiyama Station’s platform even has a footbath, available for 200 yen. Nearby, a footbath cafe offers a 15-minute soak and a drink for 2,160 yen. From “Tully’s Coffee Arashiden Arashiyama Station,” you can enjoy tea while admiring the “Kimono Forest.”

For kimono rental in Arashiyama, Rikawafuku Arashiyama Store is recommended! Rentals start from 3,500 yen, with special deals for school trips like Kyoto School Trip Kimono Rental Plan.

＞Rikawafuku Arashiyama Store

One-Day Kyoto Sightseeing Course with Kimono Rental

Extend your journey to the popular western and northern areas of Kyoto, where power spots await your visit.

Kinkaku-ji to Ryoan-ji and Ninna-ji Course

Located in Kyoto’s western area, Kinkaku-ji was the retirement villa of the third shogun of the Muromachi period, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu. It later became a Zen temple, with the Golden Pavilion (Shariden), a tea house in Sukiya-zukuri style, and gardens worth a detailed visit. At Fudokama Tea Place, you can enjoy matcha and sweets for 500 yen.

Passing through Kyoto Prefectural Domoto Insho Museum of Fine Arts and Ritsumeikan University, you’ll reach Ryoan-ji. A World Heritage site and a Zen temple of the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai sect, Ryoan-ji is famous for its karesansui (dry landscape) rock garden and is a popular spot among foreigners.

A 10-minute walk from Ryoan-ji brings you to Ninna-ji. This World Heritage site, the head temple of the Omuro branch of Shingon Buddhism, offers views reminiscent of a time-travel to the Heian period with its cherry blossoms and the vista from its palace. Walking in kimono rental, you’d feel like a princess from The Tale of Genji.

Ginkaku-ji to Philosopher’s Path to Nanzen-ji Course

In eastern Kyoto lies Ginkaku-ji, the mountain villa of the 8th shogun of the Muromachi period, Ashikaga Yoshimasa, later converted into a Zen temple. Its moss-covered garden offers a tranquil contrast to the opulent Kinkaku-ji, ideal for a leisurely stroll.

After kimono rental in Kyoto, walking the Philosopher’s Path is a must. Though 2 km long, the path is lined with delightful shops. Near the city bus stop “Ginkakuji-mae,” you’ll find “Kyoto Chidoriya Ginkakuji Store,” popular for its organic Kyoto cosmetics.

Passing through the famous autumn foliage of Eikando Zenrinji, you’ll reach Nanzen-ji, the head temple of the Nanzenji branch of the Rinzai sect. The view from its “Tenka Ryumon” pillars and panoramic vista of Kyoto city from the gate are must-sees in a kimono.

Arashiyama to Sagano Course

Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most famous areas, is home to the popular Nonomiya Shrine, known from The Tale of Genji for purifying imperial princesses chosen for Ise Jingu. A favorite spot among female students who rent kimonos at Rikawafuku Arashiyama Store!

Ideal for those seeking good fortune in love, Nonomiya Shrine is just a short stroll through the bamboo-lined path of “Bamboo Grove,” another Instagram-worthy area. Wander leisurely in a kimono or hire a rickshaw for a guided tour through this historic locale.

Near Bamboo Grove, to the south, is the World Heritage site Tenryu-ji, a major temple of the Rinzai Zen Tenryu-ji school, renowned for its “pond-strolling” garden. Each season, from cherry blossoms to fresh greenery and autumn leaves, offers a unique experience.

After exploring Tenryu-ji and Hougon-in, a visit to Togetsukyo Bridge is a must. For couples, there’s a superstition about not looking back while crossing it.

Kurama-dera to Kifune Shrine, Ohara Sanzen-in Course

Famous for Kurama Tengu and Ushiwakamaru, Kurama is home to Kurama-dera, where Minamoto no Yoritomo trained for ten years. The Niomon Gate greets visitors as a barrier between the mundane world and Mount Kurama. The temple is a noted power spot, with a six-pointed star stone pavement in front of the Golden Hall.

A walk through the forest path leads to Kifune Shrine, known for its connection to Izumi Shikibu, who prayed for reconciliation with her husband. A key spot for love-related prayers, Kifune Shrine is a must-visit for women.

A bus ride takes you to Ohara Sanzen-in, replete with attractions like monzeki temples, a moss-covered garden, and the Amida Triad statue in the main hall. Scattered Jizo statues offer moments of solace. Consider extending your stroll to Houon-in or Jakko-in for a complete experience.

Special Edition! What to Do When You Only Have 2-3 Hours for Kimono Rental in Kyoto?

Here are some recommended areas for those who want to enjoy Kyoto in a kimono for just a couple of hours.

Kiyomizu-dera to Ninenzaka Area

The Kiyomizu-dera to Ninenzaka area is rich in kimono rental shops and concentrated tourist spots, perfect for savoring the Kyoto ambiance even in just 2 hours.

As a highly regulated historical preservation area in Kyoto city, it offers quintessentially Kyoto-esque scenery.

Plentiful souvenir shops and street food make it ideal not just for kimono rental but also for leisurely strolls.

The only downside is the crowd, as it’s one of Japan’s most famous tourist destinations. Keep that in mind.

>Rikawafuku Kiyomizudera Store

Arashiyama Area

In 2022, Arashiyama was arguably the most popular area in Kyoto, drawing a surge of tourists, from school trips and couples to group tours.

Popular for kimono rental, the area can be thoroughly enjoyed in just 2 hours, offering everything from the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge and Bamboo Grove to delightful street food.

Rikawafuku Arashiyama Store

Author of this article

Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku operates four kimono rental shops in Kyoto city, including locations in Arashiyama, Gion, Kiyomizu Temple, and in front of Kyoto Station. In 2022, they served over 180,000 customers in the Kyoto area!
They offer affordable plans, with a kimono dressing plan starting from 3,500 yen, and a hair setting plan from 5,500 yen.
Close to popular tourist spots such as Togetsukyo Bridge, Kiyomizu Temple, Yasaka Koshindo, and Yasaka Shrine!
Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Gion Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Arashiyama Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kiyomizu Temple Store
Kimono Rental Rika Wafuku Kyoto Station Front Store