Asakusa’s kimono experiences let you step right into old-world Japan. My favorite spot is Tokyo Maikoya, where you’ll combine a traditional tea ceremony with the full kimono treatment – including professional hairstyling and tasty Japanese snacks. Their sweets-making workshop is another winner, offering hands-on fun while dressed in authentic kimono. For a simpler option, WARGO’s rental service is perfect for wandering Asakusa’s historic streets in traditional dress. I especially love these tours for their no-nonsense approach to Japanese culture and great photo ops. Check out our top picks below.
Good To Know
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Tokyo Maikoya offers a highly-rated traditional Kimono Tea Ceremony experience in Asakusa, with personal hairstyling, green tea, and kimono included for $63.14 per person.
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Sweets Making & Kimono Tea Ceremony at WARGO combines the creation of traditional Japanese sweets with a calming tea ceremony, priced at $108.23 per person.
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WARGO’s Kimono Rental Experience in Taito City provides a comprehensive package with kimono, dressing, insurance, and simple hair set for $37.00 per person.
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Kimono experiences in Asakusa offer deep immersion into Japanese culture, with opportunities to learn customs, history, and etiquette related to kimonos.
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While not wheelchair accessible, the activities’ locations near public transportation make them easily accessible for most travelers, with advance booking recommended due to high demand.
Kimono Tea Ceremony at Tokyo Maikoya
Located in the heart of Asakusa, Tokyo Maikoya offers a captivating Kimono Tea Ceremony experience that immerses visitors in the rich cultural traditions of Japan.
Rated an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 436 reviews, this highly recommended activity boasts a 98% traveler recommendation rate. Priced at $63.14 per person, the experience includes amenities such as hairstyling, green tea, kimono costumes, utensils, and snacks, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off.
With a maximum capacity of 12 travelers per session, the intimate setting allows for a personalized and immersive cultural journey. While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Participants aged 7 and above are welcome, and those wishing to book in groups of more than 4 may need to use alternative booking platforms.
Positive reviews highlight the friendly staff, informative sessions, and the overall enjoyable and authentic atmosphere of this exceptional cultural experience.
Read our full review: Kimono Tea Ceremony at Tokyo Maikoya Review
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Sweets Making & Kimono Tea Ceremony at Tokyo Maikoya
Along With the captivating Kimono Tea Ceremony experience, Tokyo Maikoya offers visitors an immersive Sweets Making & Kimono Tea Ceremony activity. Rated 4.9 out of 5 with 98% of travelers recommending it, this small-group workshop allows participants to learn about traditional Japanese culture through hands-on activities.
Guests will dress in beautiful kimonos or traditional clothing and create their own Japanese sweets, known as wagashi. The experience also includes a calming tea ceremony, where they’ll savor green tea and appreciate the history and etiquette behind this revered practice.
Reviewers consistently praise the friendly instructors, the photogenic moments in kimonos, and the overall educational and cultural significance of the experience. At just $108.23 per person with free cancellation, this activity provides an exceptional opportunity to take in Japan’s rich traditions.
Read our full review: Sweets Making & Kimono Tea Ceremony at Tokyo Maikoya Review
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Asakusa, Tokyo: Traditional Kimono Rental Experience at WARGO
Although Asakusa is renowned for its historic temples and shrines, visitors can further enjoy traditional Japanese culture by experiencing the kimono rental service at WARGO.
Located on the 4th floor of a building in Taito City, the rental experience includes a kimono, dressing, insurance, and a simple hair set with Kanzashi. At $37.00 per person for a maximum of 5 travelers per session, the activity allows participants to explore Tokyo while wearing traditional attire, enhancing culture.
With a 4.9 rating based on 26 reviews, WARGO is highly recommended by travelers for its friendly, skilled staff and the beauty of the kimonos.
While the staff may not speak English, they’re helpful and efficient, and larger kimono sizes are available to accommodate a variety of body types. Participants often receive compliments while wearing the kimonos, making it a memorable experience.
Directions to the store include using the escalator or elevator, and the activity ends at the same meeting point, though the location isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Asakusa, Tokyo: Traditional Kimono Rental Experience at WARGO Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Wear the Kimono Outside the Experience?
You can wear the kimono outside the experience, but it’s generally not recommended. Kimonos are traditional Japanese garments meant for special occasions, and wearing one casually may come across as disrespectful or inappropriate in public.
How Long Does the Tea Ceremony Last?
The tea ceremony typically lasts about 30-60 minutes, depending on the specific experience. It’s a serene and thoughtful ritual that allows visitors to enjoy Japanese culture and tradition.
What Types of Sweets Are Included in the Experience?
The tea ceremony experience typically includes small, traditional Japanese sweets called wagashi. These delicate confections, often made with red bean paste or seasonal ingredients, are served alongside the matcha green tea to complement its flavors.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Experiences?
There are usually no age restrictions for the kimono experiences. Children and adults alike can enjoy dressing up in traditional Japanese attire, though young children may require parental assistance during the process.
Can I Keep the Photos Taken During the Experience?
You can typically keep the photos taken during the kimono experience. Most providers allow visitors to take photos throughout the process, and you’ll usually receive digital copies of the pictures as part of the package.
The Sum Up
Asakusa offers visitors a chance to enjoy traditional Japanese culture through kimono experiences. Tokyo Maikoya provides options for a tea ceremony and sweets making, while WARGO allows visitors to rent kimonos and explore Asakusa. These experiences offer a unique and memorable way to appreciate the beauty and elegance of Japanese traditions.