Kimono Rental in Kyoto: 5 Ways to Prevent Kimono Mishaps While Exploring Kyoto
Before you change into a beautiful kimono and take a leisurely stroll through Kyoto’s Arashiyama, there are a few things to keep in mind.
One characteristic of Arashiyama in Kyoto is its many slopes, making it a bit challenging for walking.
Kyoto, in general, has many steep slopes at its tourist spots, but Arashiyama, in particular, has several steep inclines. When you rent a kimono and plan to visit attractions like the Bamboo Grove Path or Tenryu-ji, you’ll need to put in a little effort.
However, there’s one thing to remember. When you’re in a kimono, your movement should not be the same as when you’re in regular Western clothing; otherwise, your kimono may get disheveled along the way.
To ensure you maintain your beautiful kimono appearance until you return, pay attention to the following five points while taking your stroll.
- 1. When Renting a Kimono, Take Smaller Steps
- 2. Rolling Up Sleeves in a Kimono Is Strictly Prohibited??
- 3. When Renting a Kimono, Do Not Twist Your Upper Body or Slouch
- 4. While Renting a Kimono, Do Not Raise Your Arms Higher Than Your Shoulders or Stretch Them Forward
- 5. When Renting a Kimono, Be Mindful of Sitting with a Shallow Posture
1. When Renting a Kimono, Take Smaller Steps
Kimonos are different from Western clothing in that they fit snugly around your legs.
Therefore, if you walk with wide strides like you do in jeans or a skirt, the hem of your kimono will quickly spread out.
When you’re wearing a kimono or yukata, it’s essential to take smaller steps and walk slowly with a slight inward movement of your legs.
Also, since you’ll be wearing geta sandals, your footwear will be different from what you’re used to, making walking a bit challenging. Kimono dressing experts adjust your kimono for walking, but it’s still crucial to pay attention to your stride!
2. Rolling Up Sleeves in a Kimono Is Strictly Prohibited??
Another important thing to remember while wearing a kimono is not to roll up the sleeves!
Especially for men, the sleeves can feel a bit bothersome and fluttery. However, if you roll up the sleeves as you might with Western clothing, it can cause wrinkles and damage to the kimono fabric.
If the sleeves feel bothersome, you can use the opposite hand to gently hold them up. It creates an elegant gesture!
3. When Renting a Kimono, Do Not Twist Your Upper Body or Slouch
Kimonos fit closely around your body, with the obi belt securely fastened.
Despite this, twisting your upper body or turning around abruptly can quickly lead to significant disarray in your kimono.
When you need to turn, gently pull back your shoulders and turn slowly with a graceful movement. Also, modern life often involves using smartphones, which can lead to slouching.
However, when you maintain a hunched posture while wearing a kimono, it’s more likely to cause disarray starting from your back, and the collar area may appear loose.
Since it doesn’t look visually appealing, try to improve your posture when wearing a kimono.
By keeping your shoulders slightly lowered and your spine elongated as if a thread is pulling you up from the top of your head, your kimono-wearing posture will look better.
While Renting a Kimono, Do Not Raise Your Arms Higher Than Your Shoulders or Stretch Them Forward
Raising your arms too high can cause the kimono’s sides to come out from the obi, resulting in a sloppy appearance.
Be cautious not to lift your arms higher than shoulder height.
So, when you’re on a train or bus while renting a kimono in Kyoto’s Arashiyama, it’s better to hold onto a handrail rather than using a hanging strap.
Also, when reaching for something slightly higher or a bit further away, placing the opposite hand on the sleeve will enhance your appearance.
While Renting a Kimono, Be Mindful of Sitting with a Shallow Posture
Sitting too deeply can easily disarrange the kimono around your waist and leaning against the backrest can cause the obi to shift, so be careful.
When sitting on a chair or elsewhere, sit down from your hips, rotate your body 90 degrees to face forward, and align your hem while sitting with a shallow posture.
At that time, it’s essential to align the hem and sit shallowly.
Of course, avoid crossing your knees and spreading your legs, as it doesn’t look appealing and can make the hem spread out unnoticed.
If you want to look cute and have fun while renting a kimono in Kyoto’s Arashiyama, pay attention to your posture and more! Following these five points will help you achieve a graceful appearance that suits the town of Kyoto.
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
