A Magical Day in Kyoto: Kimono Dressing & Temple Exploring
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, hiring a traditional kimono is an absolute must.
We visited the Kimono Okamoto Main Shop in Kyoto, where the warm and welcoming staff guided us through the exciting process of choosing our kimonos. From the intricate patterns to the perfect fit, they helped us look the part while also making sure we felt comfortable. They even styled our hair and added gorgeous accessories to complete the look.
Next came the highlight — a professional photo shoot with their in-house photographer. It was such a fun way to capture the moment and keep a little piece of Japan with us forever.
Once dressed, we made our way to the Kiyomizu Temple, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks. We explored the temple grounds, took hundreds of photos, and wandered the charming streets nearby, lined with shops selling souvenirs, handmade crafts, and mouthwatering street food.
We happened to be there on New Year’s Eve, so the crowds were buzzing with excitement — and while it was busy, it only added to the atmosphere. I’ll admit, I was a little nervous about whether dressing in a kimono as a visitor might be seen as disrespectful or overly touristy. But it was quite the opposite — we received so many kind comments and smiles from locals, who seemed genuinely pleased to see us embracing their culture.
Plan ahead — this experience is very popular, especially during peak times, so booking in advance is essential. The hire period lasts for 24 hours, meaning you can enjoy wearing your kimono well into the evening. Best of all, the garments can be conveniently collected from your hotel the following day, so there’s no rush to return them after your adventure.
Kimono hire experiences are available in many parts of Japan, but for us, doing it in Kyoto made it extra special. It’s a day my daughters will never forget — and neither will I.
Japanese Kimono Experience, Top Tips:
Rental Kimono Okamoto Main Shop : https://okamoto-kimono-en.com/
Kiyomizu-dera Temple : Google Map Link
