When I was planning my trip to Japan, one thing I was desperate to do was to book in to do a full Kimono experience. I found one in Kyoto on Viator that was located in the heart of Gion and looked perfect for what I was looking for, plus being in Gion, there was plenty of places for me to see while in the dress.
The place that I ended up going to was called “Kimono Rental Rei” and whilst it was daunting to try find it as it had little signage, we trusted the directions provided by viator and found it all ok! We first went up to the 3rd Floor and checked in. They then took us up to choose out our Kimono and belt colour.
From there, I got changed. It was a little embarrassing, but the workers were so professional, so it made it a lot easier! Pretty much, I got down to my underwear and they put a thin white robe on, tied it up with white ties. Then I had a thicker pale pink robe (you can see it poking out underneath the outer layer) and tied it up with some pink ties.
And then it was time for the main part – the outer Kimono. I fell in love with the design as soon as I saw it. The pinks in it just caught my eye. It was actually a lot heavier than I expected!! There were small weights on the bottom to keep it looking straight.
The belt was probably the most complicated part (for them at least) to put on. It was all types of loops and knots and then they managed to make it into a bow and I have no idea how haha
My booking only included the clothing, but for an extra 1,000 Yen (about AUD$10), I decided to splurge and get my hair done. They made it seem a lot longer than it actually was, so that made me so happy – it took a lot of teasing of my hair…we ran into some language difficulties, with some hand gestures, and me say yes please and that’s ok, we got there!
Then we went out wandering – and found the most amazing little cafe. I had fried Banana, pancakes and a coffee – all in my Kimono – felt very special 😉
All in all, it was a pretty special day, one I would love to go and do again when I’m next in Japan!
YOUR THOUGHTS
Have you been to Japan and dressed up in Kimonos? Any other great places you’d suggest to go other than Kyoto?
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