Stay Cool in Summer! How to Enjoy Kimono Rental in Kyoto’s Hot Season

Some people may think that summer in Kyoto is less impressive compared to spring or autumn, but it is actually filled with charming events and cool spots.

Many people might consider renting a yukata during their summer visit to Kyoto!

We highly recommend experiencing summer Kyoto tourism by renting a kimono or yukata. Dressing in traditional attire at Kyoto’s summer cooling spots can create a truly picturesque scene.

However, there are some things you should keep in mind when it comes to renting yukata in Kyoto during the summer.

In this article, we’ll introduce what you should know when renting summer kimono in Kyoto.

*This article is supervised by TripFarm Corporation, the company that operates Kyoto Yukata Rental Rikawafuku Kimono.

Here are the kimono rental plans offered by Rikawafuku Kimono: List of Kyoto’s Yukata Rental Plans

Yukata Rental is the Main Choice for Summer in Kyoto

First and foremost, you should know that most kimono rental shops in Kyoto during the summer offer yukata rentals.

Yukata and kimono are similar yet different. Yukata originated from a simple single-layer kimono called ‘yugoromo,’ which was worn by nobility to conceal their skin during bathing.

While yukata and kimono have the same structure, yukata exclusively come in ‘single-layer’ style, and they are worn without an inner kimono called ‘nagajuban.’

 

If you’re considering kimono rental for your summer Kyoto visit, we recommend renting a yukata. Some kimono rental shops offer summer-specific kimono such as ‘sha’ and ‘ro’.

However, Kyoto is in a basin, and summer here can get extremely hot. While summer kimonos are cooler compared to regular kimonos, they still can’t beat the comfort of yukata during the summer.

Moreover, keep in mind that kimono rentals are, of course, ‘rented items’, so it’s best to avoid sweating excessively and dirtying them.

Unless you have an unwavering determination like, ‘No matter how hot it gets, I want to rent a kimono!’, it’s advisable to choose yukata rental for your summer Kyoto sightseeing.

Points to Consider When Renting Summer Kimono

When considering kimono rental for your summer visit to Kyoto, it’s essential to be aware of some key points to ensure a comfortable experience:

• Be Cautious of Heatstroke and Dehydration
• Makeup May Smudge Easily Due to Sweat
• Kyoto Has Many Slopes, So Take Frequent Breaks

Pay Attention to the Types of Kimono When Renting in Kyoto

Whether you choose kimono or yukata rental in Kyoto during the summer, there are several things you need to be cautious about when renting these traditional garments:

Here are some essential points to keep in mind for an enjoyable summer kimono/yukata rental experience in Kyoto:

Be Cautious of Heatstroke and Dehydration

This caution pertains not only to kimono and yukata rental but also to general summer activities. Summer is a season where heatstroke and dehydration are more likely to occur, and Kyoto, being in a basin, can get exceptionally hot during the summer.

It’s crucial to stay well-hydrated, use a sun umbrella, and take frequent breaks to prevent heatstroke and dehydration.

As summer approaches, you will find various effective methods for preventing dehydration and heatstroke on television programs and medical websites. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with this information before your trip.

To ensure that your enjoyable Kyoto trip isn’t marred by these health issues, take heatstroke and dehydration prevention seriously.

Beware of Makeup Smudging Due to Sweat

The second point to keep in mind is that in summer Kyoto, your makeup may be prone to smudging due to sweat. While yukata is cooler compared to kimono rentals, it’s still not as breezy as wearing a camisole or tank top.

Wearing yukata might be restrictive if you’re not used to it, and walking around hot summer Kyoto in unfamiliar attire can lead to increased sweating. In such situations, your makeup may easily smudge unless it’s exceptionally waterproof.

For your summer trip to Kyoto, it’s advisable to either use makeup that’s resistant to sweat or take measures to prevent sweating.

Kyoto Has Many Sloped Streets, So Take Frequent Rests

The third point to consider is Kyoto’s topography. Kyoto is known for its hilly terrain, and popular shops and attractions are often located in such areas.

Combining the heat, the restrictive nature of yukata, and the potential for sweating while navigating steep slopes, it’s crucial to prepare for issues like heatstroke, makeup smudging, and dehydration when visiting Kyoto’s hilly spots during the summer.

Moreover, the inclines require physical exertion, so taking regular breaks becomes essential. Kyoto boasts many stylish cafes, so taking this opportunity to explore ones you’ve had your eye on might be a good idea.

Pay Attention to the Type of Kimono When Renting in Kyoto

While there are both yukata and kimono options for traditional Japanese clothing, some people may still prefer to wear a “kimono,” even in the summer!

In such cases, it’s essential to pay attention to the type of kimono you choose.

One option is the “hitoe” kimono, which is a lightweight and relatively cool type of kimono.

On the contrary, “awase” kimono is designed for winter use, so choosing this type is not recommended for summer!

Essential Items for Summer Kimono Rental

Lastly, let’s introduce some useful items for your summer kimono or yukata rental in Kyoto.

These items can enhance your comfort while enjoying Kyoto in the summer, so it’s recommended to have them on hand.

Summer Essentials for a Comfortable Stay in Kyoto

First of all, since it’s summer in Kyoto, let’s start with some effective items for dealing with the heat. Classic items for dealing with the heat include “undergarments,” “towels,” “cooling packs,” and “cooling sprays.”

Undergarments and towels are useful for absorbing sweat, while cooling packs and sprays provide direct relief from the heat.

For example, choosing undergarments made of absorbent materials like “hemp” or “cotton” or opting for undergarments with “sweat pad” attachments can significantly help prevent issues like sweat stains.

Moreover, some people wrap cooling packs or ice packs in towels and place them inside their obi sash. Others even spray their undergarments generously with “cooling sprays,” although this might be a bit challenging with rentals. It’s a good idea to try a few different methods before your trip and use the one that works best for you to combat the heat.

Stay Stylish and Comfortable with Traditional Japanese Accessories like Fans

Fans have been used as traditional cooling tools during hot summers for ages. There are various types of fans available, and some famous ones include “Kyoto fans” and “Edo fans,” which not only offer practical cooling but also feature exquisite designs.

Since you’ve come all the way to Kyoto, it’s highly recommended to try using a Kyoto fan. However, there are plenty of other lovely fans that match yukata outfits. Feel free to choose the one that suits you best.

While summer in Kyoto can be quite stifling without a breeze, these fans not only serve a practical purpose but also add a touch of elegance to your ensemble. For those who are sensitive to heat, it’s advisable to use hand fans rather than folding fans.

Hand fans are larger and can provide a more effective breeze compared to folding fans. Additionally, modern hand fans also come in stylish and elegant designs, similar to traditional folding fans.

There are also towels with traditional Japanese patterns available for wiping away sweat. Don’t forget to include such “stylish yet practical” Japanese summer accessories.

Prevent Injuries from Unfamiliar Geta Sandals

In addition to heat management, it’s essential to have items like “band-aids” ready for when you develop blisters from wearing unfamiliar geta sandals.

Furthermore, it seems that there are now specialized items available for preventing shoe-related injuries when wearing geta sandals or zori sandals. Having these items on hand can be convenient.

While preparing for injuries is important, preventing them in the first place is even more crucial. To ensure that your Kyoto trip is not marred by injuries, make sure to take proper precautions.

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