For men’s kimono rental in Kyoto, go to Rika Wafuku
Lately, kimono rentals have been trending in Kyoto, and you might be considering renting one for a memorable trip or have been invited by your girlfriend to wear one together. So, we’re here to introduce 10 essential points for men to know when renting a kimono. We’ll cover the differences between men’s kimono and yukata, important considerations when renting, price ranges, and more. Clear your doubts before enjoying sightseeing in Kyoto!
This article is supervised by Rika Kimono Rental Kyoto, operated by TripFarm Corporation.
Here are recommended kimono rental plans for men in Kyoto!>>Kyoto Kimono Men’s Plans
Differences Between Men’s Kimono and Yukata
First, let’s talk about the “Differences Between Men’s Kimono and Yukata.”
There aren’t significant differences in their shapes, but to distinguish these two easily: Kimono is worn with a nagajuban (long undergarment) and tabi (socks), while a yukata doesn’t require them.
Moreover, men’s kimono is worn with zori sandals or geta sandals, while yukata is mainly worn with geta sandals.
It’s not mandatory to wear all these items, but knowing that kimono allows various accessories, such as adding a haori (kimono jacket) based on temperature and occasion, is a good idea.
Are Men Renting Kimonos in Kyoto?
Next, let’s discuss “Are Men Renting Kimonos in Kyoto?”
While it might seem like there are plenty of women renting kimonos in Kyoto, you might wonder if there are any men doing the same. You might worry that you’ll feel embarrassed because there aren’t many men wearing kimonos around. However, in recent times, there has been an increase in men renting kimonos, and you can now see many men in kimonos in Kyoto.
Men look very handsome in traditional Japanese clothing, so if you rent kimonos as a couple, there’s no doubt that your girlfriend will be impressed.
Take plenty of photos at Kyoto’s tourist spots and show off to your friends!
Kyoto Kimono Rental Rikafuku offers the Kyoto Men’s Kimono Rental Plan for 5,500 yen including tax, making it easy for men to enjoy kimono rental, which is popular among groups of men and school trips.
By the way, if you want to use kimono rental for a school trip, you can use the Kyoto Kimono Rental School Trip Plan for 3,500 yen including tax.
How to Use the Toilet While Wearing a Kimono
When you rent a men’s kimono and head out for sightseeing in Kyoto, one thing you might be concerned about is “how to use the restroom.” To avoid getting flustered when you suddenly need to go to the toilet, it’s reassuring to know the proper method in advance.
Generally, with men’s kimono, since the obi (sash) is tied lower, you should lift it slightly before using the restroom for smoother access later on.
First, open the lower part of the kimono’s obi to the left and right, and then open the juban (undergarment) to the left and right. After that, hold it with your arms to prevent it from falling or insert it into the obi to secure it before using the restroom.
If you are sitting on a toilet seat, lift the juban from below, wrap it around the kimono like with the obi, and insert the hem into the obi to secure it before using the restroom.
After you’re done, lower the juban and kimono, adjust them, and then return the obi to its original position.
For more information on using the restroom while wearing a kimono, you can refer to this guide.
Caution When Eating and Drinking
After renting a men’s kimono, you need to be cautious when it comes to “eating and drinking.”
Since you’ve securely put on your kimono to prevent it from coming loose, be mindful not to overeat or overdrink, as it might make you feel uncomfortable around the waist area. Also, be careful not to stain or damage your kimono while eating or drinking, as this may incur additional charges for repairs or cleaning.
Walking While Renting a Kimono
When you wear a kimono, walking is usually a simple task when wearing Western clothes and shoes. However, you need to be cautious when wearing a men’s kimono. Zori, geta, and wooden clogs can cause discomfort if the thong rubs against your toes. It’s a good idea to have some adhesive bandages on hand, just in case.
When putting on zori or geta, avoid pushing the thong too far inward, as it can cause discomfort between your toes. Additionally, be mindful of not taking large steps as you would in regular clothing, as it can cause the kimono to come undone. Walk with small steps, keeping your feet closer together, and shift your center of gravity forward to land on the center of the zori or geta as you walk.
Be Aware of Traffic Jams in Kyoto City
If you are coming to Kyoto city by car, be aware of “traffic jams.” Kyoto is a popular tourist destination with heavy traffic throughout the year, making it prone to congestion.
The policies implemented for pedestrian safety and other factors have exacerbated road congestion, leading to potential delays around famous tourist spots. Especially during busy seasons like cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing, holidays, and the three major festivals of Kyoto, parking lots can quickly become full, resulting in situations where you might find it impossible to park your car after making the effort to go there.
Therefore, it is recommended to park your car nearby and then use trains or buses to get to Kyoto, or to arrive in Kyoto early in the morning and park your car before using public transportation for further movement.
Be Cautious About Same-Day Reservations During Busy Periods
Even if you are not affected by car traffic or road congestion, it’s important to be aware of the “crowds at kimono rental shops.” During peak seasons such as cherry blossoms and autumn foliage, it may take longer to rent a men’s kimono due to increased demand.
Furthermore, depending on the size of the shop, they may not accept last-minute reservations for the same day, so it’s advisable to make a reservation in advance. You can also ask the staff about relatively quieter times. Exploring tourist spots with many stairs or slopes in comfortable regular clothing before renting kimono when it’s less busy can also be a strategy to consider.
If you really want to avoid waiting, it’s best to steer clear of busy periods.
Enjoy Kyoto Sightseeing as a Couple with Kimono Rentals!
Next, let’s talk about “kimono rentals for couples.”
Couples who typically go on dates in Western clothing can create a unique and memorable experience by wearing traditional Japanese kimono. It’s a special way to enjoy your time together. Wearing kimono as a couple can add to the romance of the day, and it’s not just for the ladies – men can also enjoy this opportunity.
At Kyoto Kimono Rental Rika Kimono, in addition to the Kyoto Men’s Kimono Plan, there is also a Kyoto Couple Kimono Plan.
You can challenge yourself with men’s kimono at a more cost-effective rate than the regular rental fee, so be sure to use it for your dates.
When Renting Kimono as a Couple, Consideration for Women is Essential!
When renting kimonos as a couple or using them in a group with female friends, it’s essential to be aware of “consideration for women.”
As mentioned in point 5, just like men can experience foot pain when renting men’s kimonos, women can experience the same discomfort.
Therefore, when walking, try to walk slowly to match their pace. Also, some women might not speak up and push themselves, enduring discomfort or postponing restroom breaks, so make sure to check in with them frequently and offer breaks at cafes or other resting places.
Gentlemen who pick up trash during food walks or carry souvenirs and other bags leave a great impression. ♪
Average Rates for Men’s Yukata Rental in Kyoto
Up until now, we’ve introduced various points to keep in mind, but of course, you might wonder about the “costs and rates.”
Renting men’s kimonos may seem expensive, and indeed, at established rental shops, prices can easily exceed 20,000 yen.
However, the average cost for men to rent kimonos in Kyoto ranges from 3,500 yen to 6,000 yen, which is quite affordable.
Ewha Kimono Rental in Kyoto offers the Kyoto Men’s Kimono Plan for 5,500 yen, which includes everything you need, so you can go hands-free!
As mentioned in point 8, if you choose a couple’s plan, it becomes even more affordable, making it a very reasonable option in terms of cost.
Enjoy Kyoto in a Handsome Men’s Kimono!
While the number of men renting men’s kimonos is relatively low compared to women, it has been increasing along with the trend. Men in traditional Japanese clothing look incredibly stylish and may capture the attention of women♪
If you rent kimonos as a couple, there’s no doubt your girlfriend will be amazed♡
Kyoto offers plenty of spots where both women and men in kimono attire blend in perfectly. So, take this opportunity to rent a men’s kimono and make your Kyoto sightseeing experience even more special!
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 2023, they served over 230,000 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
