Kimono Rental in Gion Kyoto

Exploring the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto’s Gion district has never been easier. The kimono rental service in Gion offers visitors a chance to enjoy traditional Japanese attire and aesthetics. Starting at an affordable price, this experience provides a comprehensive package that includes professional assistance with dressing and hairstyling. While the service may not be suitable for everyone, those looking to capture the essence of Kyoto’s geisha culture will find it a remarkable opportunity.

Key Points

• Kimono rental service located in the historic Gion district of Kyoto, offering a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Rental packages start at €39.24 per person for groups of up to 6, including kimono set, dressing assistance, hair styling, and ornaments.
• Additional fees apply for storage, late returns, and optional decorations, which should be considered when planning the experience.
• The service is not wheelchair accessible, and certain physical requirements must be met due to the weight of the kimono and accessories.
• Online reservation system available, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a maximum group size of 6 travelers.

Overview of the Kimono Rental Service

The Kimono Rental service in Gion, Kyoto allows visitors to experience the traditional Japanese attire first-hand.

Located in the heart of the historic Gion district, the service offers Kimono rentals starting at €39.24 per person for groups of up to 6 travelers.

The rental package includes the Kimono set, dressing assistance, hair styling for women, and hair ornaments.

Additional fees may apply for storage, late returns, and optional decorations.

The meeting point is conveniently located near Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, making it easily accessible for visitors.

Strict policies around physical fitness and age limits apply.

Rental Package Inclusions

The Kimono Rental package in Gion, Kyoto, includes several key components to provide visitors with a complete and authentic experience.

The rental set includes:

• The kimono itself, carefully selected and prepared for the customer
• Dressing assistance from professional staff to ensure a proper fit and traditional styling
• Hair services for women, including a styled hairdo and decorative hair ornaments
• Hair setting service for men to complete the authentic Japanese look

These comprehensive inclusions allow guests to fully enjoy the cultural traditions of wearing a kimono while exploring the historic streets of Gion.

Additional Costs

Along With the core rental package, there are a few optional add-ons and potential extra fees for visitors to consider. Customers can choose to store large luggage for 1000-1500 yen. Additional decorations are available for 500 yen per item. Late returns incur a 1000 yen fee for every 10 minutes. The table below summarizes these additional costs:

Item	Cost
Large Luggage Storage	1000-1500 yen
Optional Decorations	500 yen per item
Late Return Fees	1000 yen per 10 minutes

Meeting and End Point

Kimono Rental Rikawafuku Gion Store, located at 7-1 Yamatocho in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, serves as the meeting point for this experience.

It’s conveniently situated near the Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, Exit 6, in front of the Minami-za theater.

The activity ends back at the same meeting point after the rental and experience.

Travelers can expect:

• Confirmation of booking received prior to the event
• Accessibility via public transportation
• Not recommended for pregnant individuals or children under 3 years old
• A strong physical fitness level required to fully enjoy the kimono rental experience

Important Considerations

While the kimono rental experience in Gion, Kyoto, offers a unique culture, certain important considerations should be noted.

The service isn’t wheelchair accessible, so mobility-impaired travelers may face challenges. Pregnant women are also not recommended to participate due to the physical nature of the activity. Plus, children under 3 years old aren’t suitable.

A strong physical fitness level is required, as the kimono and accessories can be heavy.

Finally, travelers should be mindful of late return fees and storage costs for large luggage. These factors are crucial to consider when booking the kimono rental experience.

Dress-Up Experience

The kimono rental experience in Gion, Kyoto, allows visitors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Japan.

Visitors are expertly dressed in elegant kimonos and adorned with traditional hairstyles and accessories. The rental package includes:

• Personalized dressing service by skilled kimono specialists
• Professionally styled hair for women
• Hair ornaments to complete the traditional look
• Optional decorations to further enhance the kimono attire

With the beautifully dressed traveler, the experience culminates in a stroll through the iconic streets of Gion, allowing for unforgettable photographs and a true taste of Japanese culture.

Exploring the Historic Gion District

After donning the elegant kimono, visitors can venture out to explore the historic Gion district. This geisha-filled neighborhood offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. Guests can stroll along the cobblestone streets, admiring the traditional machiya townhouses and geisha houses.

Iconic Gion Sights	Description
Hanamikoji Street	Famous for geisha sightings and traditional shops
Shimbashi Dori	Picturesque canal-side promenade
Kamo Shrines	Ancient Shinto shrines with a serene atmosphere

The Gion district enchants visitors with its timeless ambiance, allowing them to step back in time and enjoy the captivating world of geisha culture.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

To book the Kimono Rental in Gion, Kyoto, travelers can easily complete the reservation online. The service offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Additionally:

• A maximum group size of 6 travelers is allowed.
• Storage fees may apply for large luggage.
• Optional decorations can be added for a small fee.
• Late returns incur a penalty fee of 1000 yen every 10 minutes.

The rental package includes the kimono, dressing service, hair set (for women), and hair ornaments.

The activity starts and ends at the Kimono Rental Rikawafuku Gion Store in Gion, Kyoto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Wear the Kimono All Day After the Rental?

The rental package typically includes wearing the kimono for a limited time, usually 2-3 hours. Customers can’t keep the kimono all day after the rental as it must be returned to the provider within the specified rental period.

Is Photography Allowed During the Dressing Process?

Yes, photography is allowed during the dressing process. Clients can take photos of themselves and their group getting dressed in the kimono. The staff encourages capturing this unique cultural experience.

How Do I Tip the Staff for Good Service?

Tipping the staff is not mandatory, but a gesture of appreciation for good service is welcome. A typical tip range is 500-1000 yen per group, which can be given directly to the staff at the end of the experience.

Can I Bring My Own Accessories to Customize the Kimono?

Yes, you can bring your own accessories to customize the kimono. The rental package allows you to add optional decorations at an additional cost of 500 yen per item. This gives you the flexibility to personalize your look.

Is There a Private Changing Room Available for the Rental?

Yes, there are private changing rooms available for the kimono rental. Clients can change into the kimono and have their hair styled in privacy before being guided to explore Gion in their rental outfits.

The Sum Up

Experiencing the elegance of traditional Japanese culture is easy with a kimono rental in Gion, Kyoto. For €39.24 per person, you’ll get a curated kimono set, professional assistance, and hair styling. Just be mindful of additional fees and that the service isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or small children. Overall, it’s a comprehensive culture in the historic Gion district.