We spent a couple days in Kyoto during the height of Cherry Blossom Season, which is one of the busiest times of the year for the city. To save time and avoid the crowds, we booked our kimono experience in advance online.

After looking up options online we decided to go with Yumeyakata because the kimono selection looked really cute and their shop location was close to our Airbnb. They also have a fairly decent website in english and are quick to respond to customer service emails (usually within 24h).

It’s also a great activity for the adults if you’ve spent a full day with kids in Kyoto.

Prices

Our couple kimono rental set in 2018 was ￥6,500 (discounted from ￥10000 since we reserved in advance). Prices have increased a bit since then (hello inflation!) I also added on a ￥1,650 hairstyling option.

[2024 Update] Until April 30, 2024, they are running a Kimono Couple Special for ￥8,000 which includes a male and female kimono rental. The special also includes single Kimono rentals for ￥4,180 and kids Kimono rental for ￥4,180.

The rental package covers the basics: a kimono, an obi, a pair of Japanese sandals, socks and a drawstring bag. It does not include colorful undergarment options, geisha style belt, jacket, umbrellas, hair styling, hair accessories, and make up (which you can purchase at an additional price).

In our photos the only optional thing we purchased was the hairstyling for Zory. So in most cases you're good to go with the basic kimono rental set + hairstyling!

Here is what a basic men and women set looks like (no extras except for hairstyling for Zory):

Hair up close:

hair services

The hair service was so worth it! They offer different hairstyles that look lovely with the kimono on. Here are some of the options:

You can find a full list of the hairstyling services here.

Tip: If you want to beat the crowds during cherry blossom season, you can purchase the 9 am and 9:30 am slot for kimono pick up (Extra ￥1000/person). I highly recommend this extra option because getting dressed (especially if you get your hair done there) takes almost 1 hour, eating into your time exploring Kyoto with your kimono.

Also, the Yumeyakata rental shop is HUGE. For the female kimono setup process - the building is 6 or 7 floors with each floor being a different step of the kimono process. On the first floor you choose your kimono design, on the second floor you put the kimono on, the next floor has bag and sandals options, the next floor has the hair and make up booths and so on.

When you get to the top floor it means you're ready to go and you can take the elevator down to start your kimono adventure around Kyoto!

The male kimono setup process is much easier and is done in a separate one story building. You pretty much just put your kimono on and choose what color belt, bag, sandal, and jacket you want. Super fast and easy! :)

There are also some VIP packages that include photo sessions. This is a great option if aren't a photographer and want some quality shots of yourselves. Since Henry is a photographer, we didn't need this option, but definitely consider it if you need one.

info

YUMEYAKATA Kimono Rental

Japan, 〒600-8104 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto, Shimogyo Ward, Manjujicho, １２８

Phone: +81 75-354-8515

We had such a fantastic time in our outfits and got so many compliments from the locals! We hope you enjoy your time in Kyoto with or without the outfits! :)