Japan is one of the most fascinating countries in the world thanks to its ancient culture, rich culinary history, and breathtaking landscapes.
Among many activities you can do during your stay, wearing a kimono can be the most fun and uncommon experience. The internet offers an extensive array of places where you can make advance bookings and pay upon arrival.
If you plan to wear your kimono in Tokyo, the district of Asakusa is one the best places.
Asakusa
Asakusa, situated only 5km from Tokyo train station, stands as one of Tokyo’s most iconic neighbourhoods.
In this district, you can find Tokyo’s oldest temple called Senso-ji and the Kaminarimon Gate. It’s a complex of Buddhist temples and an area of true Japanese tradition.
The main entrance to reach Senso-ji is near the Kaminarimon Gate which is located next to Asakusa station.
By entering through this gate, visitors can enjoy the shopping street called Nakamise Dori where you can buy typical souvenirs and snacks. After arriving to the other side of the street, you can see the pagoda and the temple of Buddhist tradition.
Asakusa Kimono Rental Koto
Asakusa Kimono Rental Koto is one the main places where you can rent a kimono. Located only 5 min walking from Asakusa station, the store is on the 6th floor of a building and in the main tourist area.
As soon as you go in, you’ll be greeted by a woman who will politely ask you to leave your shoes at the entrance and enter in socks.
This small store offers plenty of choice for both men and women. The vast selection of colours and prints will make it hard to choose only one garment.
The lady kimono set is 2530JPY so $17. The set includes a hair set, an undergarment, a little bag and shoes.
The kimono set for men is 3850JPY, which is $26, and includes undergarment, a belt and sandals.
If you are a couple travelling together, the store offers the Couple set. The price is 5390JPY which is $36. The set includes all the options above.
During Springtime, you will be provided with a Winter kimono which is thicker than the summery version. In Summer, the kimono is called Yukata, and the fabric is lighter. Yukatas have shorter sleeves and don’t have an inner lining. The prices remain the same.
Upon arrival, you will be asked to confirm the set you chose. Visitors can pay either by card or cash. Customers are allowed to wear the kimono until 5 pm and can go around wherever they want as long as they return it in the same conditions. The store is open every day from 10 am until 6 pm.
Wearing the Kimono
The whole process is an incredible experience: after choosing the colour, a Japanese lady will start wrapping you in layers of white garments before you can wear the real thing.
After wearing the first layer, you will slide your arms through the sleeves leaving the kimono open.
Usually, these garments are quite long so the lady will lift the fabric of the kimono so it can arrive above your ankles. This dress is worn in a way that creates a tube-shaped silhouette for the body. The next step is to drape the left side of the fabric over of the right one.
One important rule is that the left side always goes over the right side. Only dead people wear the kimono the other way around.
To ensure the sides stay secure, the lady provides you with a belt known as koshihimo. The belt is wrapped around the waist from front to back and the ends are crossed behind your back.
The lady ties a bow at the front and pulls down the excess fabric of the kimono so it can cover the belt. She also makes sure the back of your kimono is not bunched up.
The final step involves donning a larger belt called obi, which is fastened around your waist by tying a bow at the front.
Lastly, a red flower in your hair can add a touch of flair. You will also wear socks that separate the big toe from the others to accommodate their traditional shoes known as geta.
It is not a very easy procedure, but these ladies skilfully manage to dress you in just 15 minutes.
Almost everyone in Japan does not speak English, but you can manage to interact by using a virtual dictionary on your phone or simply body language.
Finally, you will be delighted to notice how Japanese people enjoy seeing tourists wear their traditional garment and how other visitors will look at you with amazement.
