meiji jingu Archives | Tokyo Cheapo

Keen to stroll around the streets of Tokyo in a kimono, and maybe take a lot of photos in the process? A nice kimono will go well with the cherry blossoms, or a temple or shrine in the background. You don't have to worry about not having your own kimono or not knowing how to wear one, as there are heaps of kimono rental shops in Tokyo that are happy to offer a hassle-free kimono-wearing experience to tourists. In summer, they also rent out yukata, which are made of lighter, thinner material than regular kimonos. Below, in no particular order, are some reasonably-priced kimono shops in Tokyo to check out. Additionally, you can explore kimono rental options in Kyoto. Looking for a kimono to keep? Head over to our where to buy a kimono in Tokyo guide instead. 1. Kimono Yae, Asakusa Asakusa Reserve online here Kimono Yae is a kimono rental shop near Nakamise Shopping Street. Their invidivual rental plans start from and they also offer group and couple packages. All of their packages include hairstyling and ornaments in the price. In addition, there are timed kimono photoshoot packages done in 30, 60, and 90 minute intervals from . Since the shop opens up bright and early, you can rent the kimono for the whole day but be sure to return it before 5:30 p.m. 2. Hanaka Kimono, Asakusa Asakusa Reserve online here This long standing kimono rental shop is a few seconds away from Exit 5 of Asakusa Station. They have a variety of rental packages (inclusive of hairstyling services) from 2 hour rentals starting at to complete wedding rental plans priced at . Hanaka Kimono prides itself in helping customers quickly change in and out of their kimonos in a matter of minutes. To top it off, Hanaka Kimono also offers an array of trendy or contemporary kimono patterns. Each kimono rental also comes with a basic hairstyling session and a selection of accesories to accentuate your kimono. 3. Kimono Koto, Asakusa Asakusa The Kimono Koto shop in Asakusa has some of the lowest rental prices, starting at with their autumn/winter online reservation discount for a kimono, obi (sash), sandals, and undergarments. You also get done up with the traditional hairstyle and ornamental hairpin. Men can rent a kit for , and if you want to try furisode (a long-sleeved kimono), you can opt for a plan -- but it requires booking at least five days in advance. Groups get a discount of a few hundred yen and couples have a discount too. You have to return the kimono by 5 p.m. of the same day, so we recommend getting there in the morning to take full advantage. 4. Sakaeya, Harajuku (appointment only) Harajuku Managed by the daughter of long-time kimono shop owners (they've been running a kimono shop in Ōmiya, Saitama for over 50 years), Sakaeya not only rents out kimono, but also sells new and secondhand ones. They offer a plan for visiting Meiji Shrine or a Japanese garden with tea ceremony, the same but in a yukata for (you get to keep the yukata), and a furisode plan for . These plans include a dressing lesson, tea ceremony, and assistance in taking photos at Meiji Shrine. You can also head to other locations, such as Shinjuku Park, if you inform them in advance. 5. Aki Kimono Rental, Shibuya, Ginza, and Ikebukuro for kimono, for yukata Shinsen, Shinbashi, and Ikebukuro Most kimono for their one-day rental plan () seem to be in the Shibuya and Ginza shops, so it should probably be safer for walk-ins to visit those branches. From June to September, you can try yukata for less. The basic plan covers dressing and rental, but there are additional options including hairstyling, a photoshoot, and even a sushi plan with food at the restaurant next door (Shibuya only) -- all costing an additional . If you do decide to reserve a time rather than chance a walk-in, it has to be at least two days in advance. Regardless of the plan you choose, in addition to your total bill, you’ll have to pay a refundable deposit of before you head out in your kimono. Returns are due by 6 p.m. of the same day, although you can keep the kimono overnight for an additional fee. Other kimono activities: For when dressing up just isn't enough Sometimes you want to do more than just dress up and wander around. Here are two of our favorite options. Kimono rental and photo shoot This is the perfect option for those who loving being the center of attention. Dressed in a fine silk kimono, you'll have a 3-hour photo shoot with a professional photographer. The location varies depending on the season, so you know you'll have the best backdrop no matter what. After the session you'll receive 20 high resolution edited photos. You can for per person (minimum two people, up to four). Kimono rental and rickshaw ride We're not going to lie to you. Walking around in a kimono is hard work! So instead, why not pair your kimono rental with a rickshaw ride? With this great value package, you get a full day's kimono rental, with hairstyling included, and a short rickshaw ride around Asakusa. You can for per person (up to two people). Kimono rental FAQS How much does it cost to rent a kimono in Tokyo? Renting a kimono can costs anywhere between to well over depending on the duration of renting, type, and services that are normally included. Some shops offer photo services that come with the rental while others offer simple hair styling services and tea ceremonies. It all depends on your budget and what you want to experience. What's the difference between a kimono and a yukata? The best way to think about it is in terms of what they're made of and when you wear them. Kimono are traditionally made of silk, with a sewn in underlayer for protection from sweat, making them heavier. Yukata, meanwhile, are lightweight, single layer, and made of either cotton or linen, making them much cheaper. You'll usually wear kimono for formal events, such as weddings or funerals, whereas people tend to break out the yukata for parties and festivals. Think of them like a sibling duo -- the older, more mature, and serious one versus the fun, casual younger one. Where should I rent my kimono? It completely depends on the vibe you're going for. For a more traditional feel, Asakusa and Nihonbashi are great places to rent kimono while a more modern take would be to rent a kimono somwhere downtown like Harajuku or Shibuya. How much does it cost to buy a kimono? Kimono prices usually start from and a major factor is because kimono aren't factory produced. There's a lot of time and expertise that go into producing a single garment so expect to pay a pretty penny, or two. However, if you're still keen, we've got a guide for you here. Can you see Geisha in Tokyo? Short answer is yes and to learn more about where to see them read on here. While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in November 2015. Last updated in October 2023.