Best Yukata for Each Season in Kyoto – How to Choose the Perfect Style!

“Let’s go to Kyoto.”

If you’ve had that thought, why not consider including yukata sightseeing in your plans?

In Kyoto, people of all ages, not just the elderly, and even young individuals, often wear traditional Japanese clothing like kimono in their daily lives. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll frequently spot people looking stunning in kimonos, which perfectly complement Kyoto’s streets filled with Japanese beauty.

Especially during Kyoto’s unexpectedly hot summers, yukatas offer a comfortable and stylish alternative.

While you explore Kyoto in yukata, you can also make use of convenient Kyoto yukata rental services. In this article, we’ll introduce you to ways to enjoy yukata in Kyoto and share some insights about the differences between kimono and yukata for those who are curious.

The Season for Yukata

Yukata: The Traditional Summer Outfit

As summer approaches, new yukata designs start appearing in stores, exciting many people. The sight of people wearing yukata, which is both vibrant and cooling, during the hot season catches the eyes of onlookers, regardless of gender.

Yukata is indeed the traditional summer outfit, perfect for enjoying the summer months.

During this season, when there are many fireworks festivals and festivals, why not go out wearing yukata with friends or as a couple?

Enjoy with Patterns and Accessories

When we talk about yukata, there are countless designs to choose from.

From sophisticated designs that are easy to incorporate as everyday wear to vibrant and bold designs that are unique to yukata, the options are diverse.

Yukata allows for more casual and customizable styling compared to kimono, making it suitable for those who may not be accustomed to traditional Japanese clothing. You can customize it to suit your preferences.

Enjoy Yukata According to the Season

Early Summer (Approximately June to Early July)

Recommended patterns for this period include wisteria, hydrangeas, and goldfish motifs.

Since traditional Japanese clothing anticipates the upcoming season, choosing patterns that evoke the beginning of summer when few people are wearing yukata yet is a surefire way to stand out.

For those who prefer gentle pastel colors, this season is the perfect time to shine, so be sure to wear yukata actively.

Midsummer (Approximately Mid-July to Mid-August)

As it gets hot even in the evenings, it’s recommended to choose motifs that strongly represent summer, such as fireworks and sunflowers.

If you want to express your individuality, you can use the technique of incorporating patterns from the opposite season, like snow or ice.

During this period, wearing yukata in vivid colors that can withstand the strong sunlight is just right, so consider selecting yukata with bold color combinations.

Late Summer (Approximately Late August to Mid-September)

When the evenings start to cool down, it’s fashionable to incorporate patterns of grapes, autumn leaves, chrysanthemums, and other autumn motifs into your yukata.

For color choices, deep and muted tones that exude a sense of maturity are recommended, as they can create an adult-like atmosphere along with the season’s feeling.

Is September Still Hot for Yukata Rental in Arashiyama?

Among Kyoto’s areas, Arashiyama is particularly close to nature and offers a landscape more focused on Kyoto’s mountains and greenery than the traditional cityscape.

So, is it cool enough to visit Arashiyama in September? The answer is NO.

Arashiyama remains hot even as September begins. When renting yukata, it’s essential to take precautions against heatstroke and use sunscreen. Depending on the situation, you may want to consider switching to renting a cooler yukata instead of a kimono.

Renting Yukata – A Smart and Economical Choice (Rental Benefits)

As mentioned, yukata can be enjoyed seasonally, even during the short summer, by changing patterns and colors due to subtle weather variations.

However, it can be challenging to acquire a new yukata every time. In such cases, you can make the most of yukata rental to fully enjoy the yukata season.

Check out Kyoto’s Yukata Rental Plans

Wear a New Design Every Time

When it comes to yukata, you often desire something new, right?
In such cases, rental is recommended.
You can enjoy different yukata designs not just every year but even within the same season.
Rental allows you to wear different yukata for fireworks festivals and festivals.
You can also try on yukata that you’ve been curious about but weren’t sure would suit you.

No Hassle of Storage and Cleaning

While it’s easy to forget, storing yukata involves more than just finding space; you also need to consider humidity, which can be quite challenging.
Not to mention the cost and effort of dry cleaning.
In contrast, with rental yukata, all you need to do is return it!

Get Help from Dressing to Hairstyling

Professional staff will dress you in a way that minimizes wrinkles, providing peace of mind even for those new to wearing yukata.

They can also arrange your hair and accessories to match the yukata, allowing you to transform into a stunning look effortlessly.

Most Importantly, It’s Cost-Effective!

While rental yukata comes with all these services, the price is essential.
At Rikawafuku Kimono’s Yukata Rental, you can rent yukata for as low as 4,000 yen (including tax) from the most affordable plan!
With dressing, changing, and luggage storage all included in this price, it’s honestly cheaper to rent three times during the summer than to buy one.
They also offer plans with hairstyling included, student discounts, and other options.

We also offer many special plans for couples.

Introduction to Rikawafuku Kimono – Kyoto Kimono Rental

Rikawafuku Kimono – Kyoto Kimono Rental has four stores in Kyoto: “Gion Store,” “Arashiyama Store,” “Kiyomizu Temple Store,” and “Kyoto Station Front Store.” There are also plans exclusive to each store, so be sure to check them out.

All the stores are within walking distance of famous tourist spots in Kyoto, so you won’t have a hard time getting back to the store, making it a safe and convenient choice.

★Take a look at more suggested articles for your Kyoto journey.
Where is the best reservation area for kimono rental in Kyoto?
10 sightseeing spots where you should rent a kimono during New Year’s in Kyoto
How to walk without ruining your kimono when renting it in Kyoto
We recommend renting a kimono in Kyoto and traveling alone! Make wonderful memories!
Kyoto Kimono Rental for Couples – Explore the City in Traditional Style!
Kimono Rental in Kyoto & Asakusa: 5 Common Mistakes to Avoid on the Same Day

Conclusion

Kyoto has a strong culture of traditional Japanese clothing, and even on non-event days, you can walk around the city in a yukata and be naturally accepted.

With its many traditional and charming streets, Kyoto is a place where yukata looks especially beautiful.

Dress up in a rented yukata, take lots of photos, and enjoy sightseeing to the fullest!

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