Step 1: Choose Your Kimono
Select from over 700 kimonos, including styles for men, children, and fusion-style lace designs. We are a plus-size friendly shop with a dedicated collection, so a wide range of body types can be fitted. Our dressers put the full set together, and tabi socks are complimentary.
Step 2: Designer Hairstyling, Included
Every kimono rental includes designer hairstyling at no extra cost. Choose from intricate updos or braids, finished with hair accessories picked to match your kimono. This level of styling is usually a paid upgrade elsewhere in Kyoto.
Step 3: Add Makeup or a Photoshoot
Makeup and photoshoot packages are booking options on this page, each sold together with the kimono rental. Makeup is a 15 to 20 minute touch-up done during dressing, available at the Kiyomizudera branch only. Photo sessions run 30 minutes or 1 hour in the streets and temples beside your branch, including Kiyomizu-dera, Kodaiji, Yasaka Shrine and Gion. Retouched images are delivered in about a week.
Photoshoots must be arranged in advance, and requests made less than 24 hours ahead cannot be guaranteed. If no photographer is available, you will receive a full refund. You may instead choose an alternative shooting time if you prefer.
Step 4: Explore Kyoto
Once dressed, wander Kyoto's most photogenic districts at your own pace. Both branches are within walking distance of Kiyomizudera Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the historic streets of Gion. Traditional tea houses, Yasaka Shrine and the quiet lane of Ishibei Koji are close by.
Step 5: Return Your Kimono
Return your kimono to the branch by 5:30 PM, or tell our staff before you leave the store and we will arrange a free next-day return at no extra cost.
FAQ
Q: Do you offer plus-size kimonos?
A: Yes. We are one of the few shops in Kyoto with a dedicated plus-size collection, because everyone should be able to wear a kimono whatever their size. Please consult our staff when you arrive.
Q: Do I need to make a reservation?
A: We strongly recommend booking in advance, especially during cherry blossom and autumn leaf season, to guarantee your preferred style and size.
Q: How do I avoid the late return fee?
A: Both free options avoid it: return by 5:30 PM, or ask staff for the free next-day return before leaving. The fee of JPY 1,100 per person per 10 minutes applies only if you do neither.
Q: When do I get my photos?
A: Retouched images are delivered in about a week. Unedited photos are sent to you as digital files.
Q: How long does everything take?
A: Dressing and hairstyling take about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Please allow at least 2 hours in total for getting ready and exploring nearby.
Q: What should I bring?
A: Free baggage storage is provided. We recommend wearing a simple, close-fitting outfit underneath.
Q: Are there any restrictions?
A: For safety reasons, kimono dressing is not available during pregnancy. Damage or heavy staining may incur a repair fee.
