Arashiyama is popular for kimono rentals in Kyoto!
Arashiyama is an area perfect for renting kimono and exploring, with impressive tourist spots, cafes, souvenir shops, and kimono rental shops within walking distance.
In this article, we’ll explain the reasons why Arashiyama is popular for kimono rentals, recommend some tourist spots, and provide tips for renting kimonos in the area.
*This article was created and supervised by TripFarm Co., Ltd., which operates Rikawafuku Kimono Arashiyama Store.
Reasons for Arashiyama’s Popularity in 2022
- Nature-rich and spacious, making it easy for tourism even during the COVID period.
- Not only tourism but also enjoyable food exploration.
- An area where you can enjoy all four seasons.
Arashiyama, located in the western part of Kyoto city, is a picturesque area known for cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
During the Heian period, it prospered as a retreat for nobles, and its beauty in all four seasons is well-known.
It also features numerous historic temples and shrines, including Tenryu-ji Temple, Jozan-ji Temple, and Hogon-in Temple, all of which are registered as World Heritage Sites.
You can enjoy local specialties such as Mitarashi Dango, Yuba Cheese, Tofu Soft Cream, and explore Kyoto-style souvenir shops while strolling through the area.
With attractions like the beautiful Bamboo Grove Path, Hozugawa River Cruise, and the Torokko Train, this area offers a wide range of charms, making it a popular destination for many visitors.
However, despite being one of Kyoto’s top tourist destinations that never fails to captivate many, Arashiyama experienced a temporary decline in tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With the easing of restrictions, signs of revival were seen in 2022.
From individual travelers like families and couples to group tourists like school trips and tour groups, many tourists flocked to Arashiyama as if they were breaking through a dam, and the area is gradually regaining its former vibrancy.
It’s safe to say that among the various areas in Kyoto, Arashiyama is one of the most popular right now.
Arashiyama: The Perfect Area for Kimono Rentals
- You can enjoy exploring the surrounding area in 2-3 hours.
- There are many picturesque spots perfect for kimono photos.
- It’s conveniently accessible, just a 15-minute train ride from Kyoto Station.
Arashiyama, with its scenic views, charming streets, and traditional temples and shrines, is full of photogenic spots.
With major tourist attractions within walking distance and the ability to explore thoroughly in just 2-3 hours, it’s an ideal area for a kimono rental stroll.
For touring Arashiyama in a rental kimono, we recommend renting a kimono in the well-connected Kyoto Station area or in the heart of Arashiyama itself.
Kyoto Kimono Rental – Rikawafuku Kimono offers the ” Rikawafuku Kimono Kyoto Ekimae Store,” located about a 7-minute walk from “Kyoto Station,” and the ” Rikawafuku Kimono Arashiyama Store,” which is approximately a 2-minute walk from the “Arashiyama Station” on the Randen Line.
You can either change into a kimono in the Kyoto Station area and head to Arashiyama or explore Arashiyama in regular clothes before changing into a kimono, depending on your mood and schedule.
Capturing photos in a cute rental kimono, different from your usual attire, will undoubtedly create cherished memories.
Rent your favorite kimono at Kyoto Kimono Rental – Rikawafuku Kimono and embark on a stroll through Arashiyama.
Must-Visit Tourist Spots When Renting a Kimono in Arashiyama
We’ve picked out 6 recommended tourist spots in Arashiyama, known for its charming landscapes, especially for those who have rented kimonos.
These spots are perfect for beautiful photos, so capture wonderful memories with your rental kimono.
Tenryu-ji Temple
Founded in 1339 (the 2nd year of the Ryakuō era) by Ashikaga Takauji with the aim of enshrining the spirit of Emperor Go-Daigo, this temple was established with Myōshin as its founding priest and belongs to the Rinzai Zen school Tenryū-ji branch.
It is especially renowned for its Sōgenchi garden, which cleverly incorporates the landscapes of Arashiyama and Kameyama as borrowed scenery.
During the Muromachi period, it held the position of the foremost of Kyoto’s Five Mountains monasteries, and in 1994, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.”
Nonomiya Shrine
This ancient shrine is well-known as a power spot for matchmaking and safe childbirth. It is also famous for its appearance in “The Tale of Genji,” a classic work of Japanese literature.
Among its attractions are the moss carpet garden, which represents the landscape of Arashiyama, and the unique black wooden torii gate, which is the only one of its kind in Japan.
Long ago, this location served as the Nonomiya Shrine of Ise Saigu, a place where an unmarried imperial princess or queen selected as the Saio would purify herself for a year before visiting Ise Shrine.
Kimono Forest
Adjacent to Arashiyama Station on the Randen Line, which is famous as Arashiyama Electric Railway, is a spot called “Kimono Forest.”
As the name suggests, you’ll be captivated by the poles adorned with Kyoto Yuzen, one of Japan’s three major Yuzen dyeing techniques.
There are approximately 600 poles, each adorned with different patterns and colors of Kyoto Yuzen, creating a colorful and photogenic space.
While exploring, don’t forget to take commemorative photos, as there are also attractions like the Kimono Path and the Dragon Atago Pond.
This spot is the closest to Rikawafuku Kimono Arashiyama Store, just a 2-minute walk away.
Bamboo Grove Path
Starting from the north side of Tenryu-ji Temple and leading to Okochi Sanso Villa, a bamboo forest stretches for about 400 meters.
This breathtaking sight, with the bamboo forming a green archway, is one of Arashiyama’s iconic landscapes, so much so that it has been featured in Kyoto’s commercials and posters.
The bamboo grove remains green throughout the year and is known for being pleasantly cool even in the summer.
The combination of the green bamboo grove and vibrant kimonos is perfect. When you take photos against the backdrop of the bamboo grove, your colorful kimono attire will stand out even more.
Sagano Romantic Train
The Sagano Romantic Train connects JR “Saga-Arashiyama Station” and “Torokko Kameoka Station” in Kameoka City, covering a distance of approximately 7.3 kilometers in about 25 minutes.
It is known for its leisurely speed, averaging about 25 kilometers per hour, allowing passengers to leisurely enjoy the natural beauty of the Hozugawa River and the valley scenery of Hozukyo Gorge in spring with cherry blossoms, summer with greenery, autumn with autumn leaves, and winter with snowscapes.
There are seats with windows and seats without windows, and for those who want to experience a more immersive journey, seats without windows are recommended.
Hozugawa River Cruise
The Hozugawa River Cruise takes you down the Hozugawa River from Kameoka to Arashiyama, covering almost the same area as the Sagano Romantic Train, in about 90 to 120 minutes.
Enjoy the refreshing breeze and the sounds of birds while experiencing the beauty of Hozugawa’s four seasons up close, including cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Experiencing both the Torokko train and the river cruise, while enjoying the different perspectives and speeds, is part of the charm. You can immerse yourself in the grandeur of Hozukyo’s natural beauty.
However, please note that it is difficult to do this in a kimono, so we recommend wearing regular clothing for this activity.
Things to Consider When Renting a Kimono in Arashiyama
Arashiyama is a popular tourist destination ideal for strolling in a kimono. To make the most of your kimono rental and enjoy sightseeing in Arashiyama, here are five points to keep in mind:
Prepare for Heat and Cold
Kyoto, surrounded by mountains on three sides, experiences drastic temperature changes between morning and evening. Among Kyoto’s areas, Arashiyama is known for particularly significant temperature variations.
In summer, it’s advisable to bring cooling items or a portable fan, while in winter, preparing warm items like pocket warmers or Heattech clothing will ensure a comfortable experience while wearing a kimono in Arashiyama.
Choose Footwear That Fits
The size of traditional Japanese footwear for kimono is typically based on your regular shoe size. If you have a high instep or wide feet, selecting a slightly larger size is recommended. Trying them on to ensure a comfortable fit is a good practice.
Ill-fitting footwear can lead to discomfort or blisters, so make sure to choose the right size for your zori or geta sandals.
Generally, zori or geta sandals that fit snugly or have the heel slightly protruding are considered more comfortable for walking in a kimono.
Walk in Tune with Kimono
When wearing a kimono, it’s recommended to take smaller steps, with a stride of about 10 centimeters, and be mindful of your innermost foot. This helps maintain an elegant posture while walking.
When using stairs, lift the hem of your kimono or hold it up, and when walking, try not to sway excessively. Performing these graceful movements will enhance your kimono-wearing experience.
However, be cautious not to adopt Western-style walking manners, as they can lead to fatigue and potential damage to the kimono.
Expect Crowds During Peak Seasons
- The cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons can get crowded.
- There are limited parking options in the area, so public transportation is recommended.
In spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant, Arashiyama experiences a peak season with an increase in tourists. Due to the heavy crowds, it can be challenging to take photos at popular spots or dine at your desired restaurants.
To make the most of your visit, consider going early in the morning or on weekdays when there are fewer people, and try visiting less crowded dining establishments.
Travel Light
At Rikka Kimono, we offer a wide variety of bags, including basket bags and pouches. We also have small-sized bags available. To create your perfect kimono coordination with your favorite bag, we recommend keeping your belongings to a minimum, such as your wallet and mobile phone.
Arashiyama: The Ideal Area for Kimono Rental
Arashiyama, popular year-round, is the perfect area for kimono rental exploration, offering a blend of scenic beauty, culinary delights, and sightseeing opportunities.
We’ve provided detailed information about recommended spots for kimono rental and important considerations in this article. We hope you have a fantastic kimono rental experience while exploring Arashiyama by referencing this article.
