The kimono, the formal dress of Japan, is something many people think they know about -- but when you undo its layers, you realize there is so much more to this form of dressing. Stasia Matsumoto, owner of inKIMONO, embodies this passion and knowledge through her rental and photography service. What is inKIMONO? In 2018, Matsumoto combined her two professional passions and opened inKIMONO -- run solely by her, a professionally trained and licensed kimono stylist. Polish-born, she offers her services in three languages: English, Japanese, and Polish, having begun her photography career in 2016 and her kimono journey in 2017. Born from a desire to show people how to authentically wear and embody individual personalities through kimono styling, this kimono experience is one you won't find anywhere else in Tokyo. Although you'll find streets in Asakusa lined with different kimono rentals, inKIMONO offers the most authentic and personable experience, in our opinion. Because of all the intricate details that go into planning each look -- ensuring no two are ever the same -- this experience is not cheap, but it is top quality. Award-winning kimono experience In 2026, inKIMONO won two well-deserved Japan Travel Awards: Best Accessible Travel and Best LGBTQ+ Travel. From providing LGBT+ bridal shoots to personally going to wheelchair cilents' accommodation to ensure the most comfortable kimono experience, Matsumoto has created a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can enjoy, and feel confident, wearing kimono. What to expect To take part it one of these special shoots, you need to book in advance. The schedule opens 4 months in advance. Note: For an additional , it is possible to book your appointment, for off-season months, before the calendar comes out. Pricing and inclusions There are a few packages to choose from, ranging from individual to bridal photoshoots. Prices range from to . Each kimono experience package includes: Personalized kimono styling and dressing with authentic kimono. Plus-size kimono also available. Complimentary hair styling. Explanation about kimono. Professional photoshoot (which lasts for 1.5 hours) Professionally edited and high-quality digital images. The number you recieve depends on the package you choose. If you want a certain vibe for your photos, there are few locations you can choose from, including a Showa-style snack bar, a traditional old hotel room, a kissaten (traditional café), and a traditional Japanese house. These options come at an additional fee. Other things to know When booking your shoot, you'll be asked about your style preferences, measurements, and all the fine details so Matsumoto can bring together three looks. She can do just about anything, including looks inspired by Lolita, rock, and even concepts like yokai (traditional Japanese ghosts) and Disney princesses. Additionally, to ensure true authenticity, Matsumoto will advise you if a certain look doesn't work. For instance, kimono with winter flowers, like camellias, are only styled in winter. On the day of your shoot, you'll go through each look together and perfect them to your liking. The whole creative process is really about creating a style that makes you feel your best. And what if you change your mind about the kimono style on the day? Matsumoto is there to help. Fun fact: There are kimono on the studio shelf which are 100 years old. For all the details about the shoot, we recommend checking the inKIMONO website. Kimono workshops Matsumoto also offers educational kimono workshops in English. As part of them, you'll learn about the different types of kimono, patterns, fabrics, how to pair an obi, and other tips and tricks. The workshops last roughly around 120 minutes and you can go alone or bring a group. Prices start from per person. This is a great option if you want to get a true insight into kimono culture, but don't have time to do the photoshoot experience -- which can take the whole day. How to get there The inKIMONO studio, where styling and preparation takes place, is in Asakusa. It is a 15-minute walk from Asakusa Station. Alternatively, you can take the 草64 (towards Ikebukuro Station) bus from Asakusa Kaminarimon South Bus stop to Asakusa-Keisatsusho. From there, it's a 2-minute walk.
The Ultimate Guide To Tokyo
The Ultimate Guide To Tokyo
The Ultimate Guide To Tokyo
