Tips for traveling by train in Kyoto while wearing a kimono

When you rent a kimono in Kyoto, you may have to travel long distances by train or bus and even enjoy a meal during your visit.

Kimono rental shops, of course, make sure to dress you properly to prevent any mishaps, but there are actually tips to avoid your kimono from getting disheveled!

Have you ever experienced having your kimono disheveled even though you had it beautifully dressed up by a rental kimono shop?

For those who don’t usually wear kimono, knowing these tips that may not be obvious can help you enjoy your exploration of Kyoto without any issues.

How to Walk Gracefully in Kyoto While Wearing a Kimono

For those who don’t usually wear kimono, you may have experienced thinking that you can’t walk beautifully even when wearing a lovely kimono!

However, by adopting the proper way of walking that suits kimono, you can walk gracefully and elegantly, impressing everyone who sees you.

Remember that there are some simple tips to ensure you look your best while walking in kimono.

First, consider performing “susohari” (literally “splitting the hem”) after you have been dressed in kimono.

Susohari involves slightly bending your knees and moving your feet apart shoulder-width after you’ve been dressed in kimono and long undergarments (known as “nagajuban”).

When you no longer feel the constriction of the kimono or the nagajuban, you’re ready to go!

This small gesture can alleviate any discomfort and make it easier to walk, so be sure to try it.

Also, when walking, consciously take smaller steps than usual.

Kimono walking is entirely different from wearing pants, so if you walk with the same stride as you do with jeans, your kimono may become disheveled more easily. So, pay attention!

Additionally, be mindful not to swing your arms too much.

Try to keep your arm movements to a minimum while walking to maintain an elegant posture and minimize the risk of dishevelment.

Kyoto’s streets often include stairs and steep slopes in tourist spots, so be sure to focus on every step you take while wearing a rented kimono to prevent it from becoming disheveled!

Be Cautious When Climbing Stairs While Wearing a Kimono

While exploring the streets of Kyoto, you may encounter stairs at shrines or cafes, which can be challenging when wearing a kimono.

When ascending or descending stairs, it’s essential to be conscious of your movements to avoid dishevelment.

You’ll also want to avoid stepping on the hem of your kimono, which can be dangerous.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to use your dominant hand to slightly lift the hem of your kimono.

Additionally, consciously shift your weight towards the tips of your feet when ascending or descending stairs.

Women who display elegant gestures are often perceived as “beautiful” by those around them!

By knowing and applying these techniques, you can become a stylish and elegant kimono wearer.

Reasons Why Men’s Kimono May Get Disheveled

In most cases, the reasons men’s kimono may get disheveled are related to their “sitting” and “walking” manners.

For men, taking wide strides or sitting with legs apart can cause the collar to open and lead to dishevelment.

It’s essential to maintain proper manners, especially in public transportation, and sit as politely as possible.

Wearing a kimono neatly will give you a stylish and impressive look!

Things to Keep in Mind When Riding a Car, Bus, Train, etc., in Kimono

When moving around Kyoto City, there are various transportation options such as taxis, buses, and trains, but if you’re not careful, you can risk dishevelment while boarding.

One important thing to remember is to “start your movements from your buttocks.”

Taxis, in particular, require more attention since you must always sit down, and their entrances are narrow.

When getting into a taxi, be sure to lift your hem slightly to avoid stepping on it.

Also, watch out for any decorative hairpieces in your hairstyle to prevent them from hitting the car’s interior. Bend forward, starting from the waist, and keep your head lowered as you sit down, then place your legs inside while facing forward.

Have you seen in movies how people in dresses board vehicles without causing their attire to dishevel?

Imagining this scenario when you board can help prevent your kimono from getting disheveled.

How was it? Dishevelment doesn’t only occur while walking; it can happen in various situations. Enjoy your exploration while being conscious of the fact that you’re wearing a kimono!

Author of this article

Kimono Rental RikaWafuku in Kyoto 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