Types of Kimonos and Knowledge You Should Know for Renting Kimonos with Your Child in Kyoto

Recently, there has been an increase in families renting kimonos and exploring Kyoto together as part of their Kyoto sightseeing experience. Going out in Western clothes is fun, of course, but today we’ll be renting kimonos and dressing up like princesses to walk through Kyoto’s streets.

The beautiful scenery and traditional kimonos will blend perfectly, allowing you to take more photos than usual and engage in lively conversations with your family. It will surely become a wonderful memory.

This time, we’ve compiled some essential knowledge about kimonos that you should know when renting kimonos as a family in Kyoto!

Types of Rental Kimonos

Kimonos have different levels of formality depending on their fabric, design, and accessories. You’ll need to choose between formal kimonos, semi-formal kimonos, or casual kimonos, and select the appropriate obi (sash) and obi tying style to match the occasion.

Formal (Dressy)

Formal kimonos are often worn on special occasions, such as weddings and formal ceremonies. During the Edo period, unmarried women used to express their feelings to men by waving the long sleeves of their “furisode” kimonos, and as women transitioned into adulthood, they would shorten those sleeves and sew them up, creating the “tomesode” style. These kimonos are mainly worn by participants at events like weddings.

・Black Tomesode
The primary formal attire for married women, featuring five dyed-in patterns of family crests. It is commonly worn by mothers and female relatives at weddings.

・Colored Tomesode
This is the primary formal attire for both married and unmarried women. If it has five family crests, it’s considered formal; if it has three crests, it’s semi-formal. It can be worn on a wide range of occasions, including parties.

・Furisode
The primary formal attire for unmarried women. It is characterized by its elaborate feathered patterns (patterns that cover the entire kimono) and long sleeves. Unmarried women wear furisode for their coming-of-age ceremonies and weddings.

Other formal kimonos include white bridal kimono like “uchikake” and plain “kuro-mon-tsuki” kimono, which are worn as mourning attire.

For obi (sash) and obi tying, the prevalent style is the double-drum knot using a round obi or pouch obi, symbolizing the accumulation of happiness.

Semi-Formal (Semi-Dressy)

Semi-formal kimonos are worn by guests at weddings and other formal occasions where the hosts are not responsible for the attire. They are versatile and can also be dressed down for casual settings.

・Visiting Kimono (Houmongi)
Known for its elaborate, large-scale patterns, these kimonos are often worn at weddings. When they have one family crest, they are considered formal.

・Furisode-Style Kimono (Tsukesage and Iromuji)
These kimonos feature small patterns that do not cross seams, creating a unified design when worn. Simple ones can be worn casually, while those with luxurious patterns are considered formal attire for parties and weddings, on par with visiting kimonos.

・Solid Color Kimono (Iromuji)
These are plain kimonos without patterns. Those with one family crest are formal, those with stitched crests are semi-formal, and those with no crests are suitable for casual occasions.

Visiting kimonos and furisode-style kimonos are usually worn with a formal obi using a double-drum knot. Solid color kimonos can be worn casually with a Nagoya obi using a single-drum knot. Different obi knots, such as ribbon knots and Ginza knots, can add cuteness or sophistication, allowing for stylish coordination.

Casual (Everyday Kimono)

Casual kimonos are worn for everyday occasions, such as outings with friends or casual parties.

・Komon
Kimonos with a consistent pattern throughout. They are widely worn as everyday attire. Elaborate designs or patterns from the Edo period can also be considered semi-formal.

・Tsumugi
Tsumugi kimonos are made from loosely woven silk, creating a rough texture. They come in various patterns, including stripes and kasuri. Plain tsumugi kimonos are slightly more formal than patterned ones and can be worn for various occasions.

・Yukata
Yukata is a cotton kimono, typically worn in the summer. Originally intended for wearing after bathing, yukata is now popular for casual events like summer festivals and fireworks. Recently, kimonos made from materials like cotton and wool have also gained popularity as casual attire.

For obi and obi tying, half-width obis are mainly used. They offer various tying styles, from simple bunko knots to decorative choices like ribbon knots and ribbon bows, allowing for stylish and versatile coordination.

About Kimono Materials for Rental

Kimono materials vary depending on the season.

・Awase (Lined Kimonos) – Around 10-5 months

Awase kimonos, regardless of fabric, are kimonos that have both an outer and inner layer sewn together. They are suitable for the longest period of the year.

・Hitoe (Unlined Kimonos) – June and September

Unlined kimonos are made without an inner lining and are single-layered, making them suitable for hot weather.

・Usumono (Thin Kimonos) – July and August

Usumono includes sheer kimonos made from silk, such as sha-ro, and summer kimonos with hemp lining. These are ideal for warm weather.

Kimonos can be made from various materials:

・Silk

The highest-quality “real silk” (silk) is used for formal kimonos. It is known for its beautiful sheen, smooth texture, moisture absorption, and release properties, as well as its excellent insulation. However, silk is sensitive to water and friction, so it requires careful handling.

・Hemp

Hemp kimonos are known for their breathability, quick-drying properties, and rustic texture. They are lightweight and often used for summer kimonos. However, their stiff nature makes them prone to wrinkles.

・Cotton

Kimonos made from cotton yarn, a product of cotton plants, are known for their comfort, breathability, and good moisture absorption. They are typically worn as casual kimonos or for summer yukata. Cotton kimonos are easy to care for.

・Wool

Wool kimonos are made from thick woolen fabric. They are durable, resistant to wrinkles, and provide warmth. In summer, lightweight summer wool is also used.

・Polyester

Chemical fiber kimonos are commonly used for everyday kimonos and yukata. They are durable, water-resistant, and less prone to staining.

Features of Kimonos Offered for Rental

Rental kimonos are primarily made from polyester, making them easy to wear for those who are not accustomed to everyday kimonos.

Many rental shops offer modern and large-patterned kimonos, catering to contemporary tastes.

Some shops focus on antique kimonos, so you can choose a rental shop that suits your preferences!

For obi, half-width obis are commonly used in rental kimono shops. Some shops exclusively provide kimono rentals with Nagoya obis.

Key features of polyester kimonos include:

1. ・Easy to handle and lightweight
2. ・Resistant to stains
3. ・Water-resistant
4. ・Versatile in design

However, it lacks breathability, moisture absorption, and insulation, so be sure to adjust with appropriate undergarments!

Can Babies Rent Kimonos in Kyoto?

Is it possible to rent kimonos for babies in Kyoto?

One famous occasion for babies to wear kimonos is the “omiya-mairi” (shrine visit) ceremony.

Many kimono rental shops in Kyoto offer baby kimono outfits for omiya-mairi, but some may not, so it’s advisable to inquire in advance.

Points to Note When Dressing Children in Kimono

When renting kimonos for a family outing, special attention is required when dressing young children, especially those under the age of 10!

Dressing a small child (around 7 years old or younger) in kimono takes about 20 minutes.

At first, they may be curious and cooperative, but they can quickly become bored or uncomfortable in unfamiliar kimono and footwear, leading to tears. To alleviate any discomfort for children:

・During dressing, wrap a towel around their body to reduce the tightness of strings and obi.

・Keep the hem slightly shorter to prevent tripping and falling.

・Kyoto experiences cold winters and hot summers, with temperature differences of more than 15 degrees between day and night. Make sure to dress children warmly in chilly seasons.

・Since they are not used to wearing kimonos, ask the kimono dresser for guidance on matters like using the restroom.

These points will help make the experience more comfortable for children!

Precautions When Touring Kyoto in Kimono with Children

Exploring Kyoto in kimonos as a family can be a delightful experience, but because it’s not something you do every day, here are some things to keep in mind:

・If your child is small and not accustomed to wearing zori (Japanese sandals), their feet may get sore. Bringing regular shoes for them to change into is recommended.

・Kyoto’s tourist spots often involve walking uphill and downhill, which can be physically demanding and make you feel hot. In such cases, consider cooling down by applying a cold towel to your neck and underarms; it has a cooling effect and helps lower your body temperature.

・While rental kimonos are typically durable and resistant to stains and water, it’s a good idea to have towels, handkerchiefs, or tissues on hand to quickly wipe away any stains, especially after meals.

・Traveling with a child in an unfamiliar kimono may take more time than expected. Plan your schedule with some flexibility, and for long distances, consider using public transportation like trains, buses, or taxis.

How did you find the information? Kimonos come in various types and materials, which can seem a bit daunting at first. However, don’t hesitate to try renting kimonos with your family and explore the beautiful nature, historic cultural sites, and streets of Kyoto in all seasons!

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