Guide to Resolving Concerns Before Kimono Rental
For Those New to Kimono Rental in Kyoto
We provide easy-to-understand guidance for those who are unsure about the location and criteria. We have compiled information on the average cost of kimono rentals in Kyoto, where to rent them, and important points to consider. If you have concerns, please take a look.
Outline
Overview of Kimono Rental in Kyoto
Average Duration from Arrival to Departure
March, November: 1 hour to 1 hour 45 minutes
Other seasons: 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
Kyoto's kimono rental shops are crowded during the cherry blossom season in March and the autumn foliage season in November. During these months, the duration from arrival to departure is often longer than the regular season, so it's recommended to arrive early in the morning or in the afternoon. Traffic congestion can also occur, so it's essential to allow extra time for your travel plans.
※ Kimono rentals are typically for one day.
Items Typically Included in Price Plans
Dressing/Kimono/Undergarment/Obi/Sandals/Tabi/Drawstring Bag
Most kimono rental plans in Kyoto include the complete set of necessary items. It's common for kimono rental shops in Kyoto to offer hair accessories as an optional extra. If you've booked a plan without a hair set, you'll need to arrange your own hairstyle.
※ Many rental shops charge for storing large bags. Price range: ¥500 to ¥700.
Common Additional Options
Hair Set/Hair Accessories/Kimono Accessories/Photography/Suitcase Storage
※ Hair sets often offer different hairstyles depending on the grade of the set.
Additional fee range: ¥500 to ¥3,000
※ Hair accessories are often offered as optional extras. Additional fee range: ¥300 to ¥500.
Price
Price Range for Kimono Rental in Kyoto
There are many kimono rental shops with rental fees starting from ¥1,980
Price Range for Dressing-Only Plans
¥1,980 - ¥3,000
Some plans may have limitations on the choice of rental kimonos.
In Kyoto, there are many shops that offer rentals starting from the ¥1,900 range. The difference in price is mostly due to the variation in available kimonos. Even if the price is lower when booking, there may be fewer choices in terms of kimonos, so it's advisable to select a shop like Rikawafuku Kimono Rental Kyoto, where you can choose from all available kimonos in any plan.
Price Range for Dressing and Hair Set Plans
¥3,000 - ¥6,000
▼ For hair set options around ¥1,000, you can choose from 2 to 3 different hairstyles.
▼ For hair set options around ¥2,000, you can choose from 5 to 6 different hairstyles.
▼ For hair set options around ¥3,000, you can fully customize your hairstyle.
You can consider these additional fees when estimating the cost.
Price Range for Dressing, Hair Set, and Hair Accessories Plans
¥3,500 - ¥7,000
The cost of hair accessories is added to the hair set option. The typical price range for hair accessories is ¥500, so you can expect an additional ¥500 fee added to the dressing and hair set plan.
Price Range for Couple Plans (Including Hair Set)
¥6,000 - ¥10,000
▼ Common inclusions: Dressing for both men and women, complete rental set, baggage storage (hair set may be an additional option).
In cases of extremely affordable couple plans, hair sets are often not included. The inclusion of women's hair set in couple plans varies between kimono rental shops. Most shops do not provide hair set services for men.
Price Range for Men's Plans
¥3,000 - ¥5,000
The price varies for men's plans, but they are generally higher than dressing-only plans for women. This is because the cost of men's kimono procurement is generally higher than for women. For couples, it's usually more cost-effective to choose a couple's plan.
Are There Restrictions on the Choice of Kimonos in Those Rental Plans?
Pay Attention to Restrictions on the Choice of Kimonos
For inexpensive kimono rental plans, there may be limitations on the selection of kimonos. Be cautious when making a reservation for plans with limitations on the choice of kimonos. If you're worried about the cost of wearing a kimono, don't worry. For dressing and rental plans, the typical price range is ¥1,980 to ¥3,000, so you can enjoy it affordably.
Season
Features of Kyoto Kimono Rental by Season
- Spring
- Summer
- Autumn
- Winter
Kimono Rental in Kyoto during Spring
Crowd Level at Kimono Rental Shops
★★★★★
The period from the second week of March to the fourth week is the busiest season for kimono rental shops in Kyoto. All rental shops get fully booked, so we recommend making reservations well in advance.
Reservation Timing
You should make a reservation at least a week in advance for this season.
Features of Spring in Kyoto
The streets of Kyoto are highly crowded during spring, with an increase in foreign tourists and school trips. Heavy traffic is common, so early planning is advisable.
Points to Consider for Kimono Rental in Spring
Decide your itinerary as early as possible and make reservations at kimono rental shops to ensure a smooth travel experience. We strongly recommend using public transportation.
Traffic Conditions
Private Car: Not recommended due to seasonal parking fees and limited availability of parking spaces.
City Bus: In addition to road congestion, you may not find available seats due to the large number of tourists.
Train: The best option for avoiding time delays during transportation.
Spring Events in Kyoto
From around March 20, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making it the most festive season of the year. Various cherry blossom-related events are held throughout the city.
Popular Tourist Spots in Kyoto during Spring
Yukata Rental in Kyoto during Summer
Crowd Level at Yukata Rental Shops
★★☆☆☆
Throughout the year, the rental shops are less crowded during this season.
Reservation Timing
Except for popular shops, reservations made up to the day before are usually fine.
Features of Summer in Kyoto
The city of Kyoto comes alive, primarily during the Gion Festival. There are many unique summer events like the Gion Matsuri, Gozan no Okuribi, and the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival. It can be quite hot.
Points to Consider for Yukata Rental in Summer
Since yukata rental may be unfamiliar, especially in August with temperatures nearing 35°C, be cautious about managing your health. Ensure you stay hydrated and take regular breaks.
Traffic Conditions
Private Car: Generally fine except for the main days of the Gion Festival.
City Bus: Usual levels of congestion.
Train: Usual levels of congestion.
Summer Events in Kyoto
Don't miss the Gion Festival by participating in yukata rental! Other popular events like the Lake Biwa Fireworks Festival and Gozan no Okuribi are also held in Kyoto during the summer.
Popular Tourist Spots in Kyoto during Summer
Kimono Rental in Kyoto during Autumn
Crowd Level at Kimono Rental Shops
★★★★☆
During the second week of November to the first week of December on weekends, it can get very crowded due to the autumn foliage season.
Booking Timing
For weekends outside of the autumn foliage season, you can even make reservations the day before.
Key Features of Autumn in Kyoto
While Kyoto is known for its autumn foliage, it starts to show its vibrant colors from the latter half of November. You can still enjoy autumn foliage in early December.
Tips for Renting Kimono in Autumn
On weekends, many visitors from the Kansai region visit, so it can get quite crowded. If possible, we recommend touring on weekdays.
Traffic Congestion
Car: Be cautious about high fees during the autumn foliage season.
City buses: They can get crowded, so plan for extra time.
Trains: There are direct trains during peak times.
Autumn Events in Kyoto
From November, the illumination of autumn foliage begins. Don't miss the chance to see this beautiful autumn scenery.
Popular Tourist Spots in Kyoto during Autumn
Kimono Rental in Winter in Kyoto
Crowdedness of Kimono Rental Shops
★★★☆☆
It gets crowded during the first shrine visit season in January and from the second week of February.
Timing for Reservations
For the early January shrine visit period, it's recommended to make a reservation about a week in advance.
Features of Winter in Kyoto
The first shrine visit season attracts tourists from all over the country, making it very crowded. If you're lucky, you might capture beautiful photos with snow and kimonos.
Tips for Kimono Rental in Winter
Since winter is quite cold, it's advisable to bring cold-weather items like scarves and hand warmers.
Traffic Conditions
Car: No issues except during the first shrine visit season
City Bus: No issues except during the first shrine visit season
Train: Pay attention to the operational status.
Winter Events in Kyoto
December features various light-up events in different places. Other events appear to be less frequent.
Popular Tourist Spots in Winter Kyoto
