What’s the difference between Yukata and Kimono?

The primary difference between yukata and kimono are the fabrics used to make the garments. Yukata are typically made from a light cotton material as they are worn throughout the summer months. On the other hand, kimono are usually made from silk and have at least two colors. The second color comes from a special undergarment called a juban. This juban can be seen peeking out from under the kimono creating a layered look.

Yukata are usually in the summer during festival season and may also be worn as bathing robes at Japanese hotels and hot spring resorts.. The main difference between a yukata and a summertime kimono is the absence of the undergarment and tabi socks usually associated with kimono. Some summertime kimono may be made from cotton. A kimono is usually regarded as a more formal garnet and they typically cost more than simple yukata.

When in Kyoto

Experience a timeless Japanese tradition first hand by strolling through the old stone streets in traditional dress. There are many shops offering foreigners the chance to borrow kimono and yukata for the day. We’ve searched and searched for the shops with the best service and most authentic experience.

Arashiyama

When visiting the famous bamboo forest area, don’t miss out on dressing your best! Akahime kimono and yukata rental studio offers indoor photo sessions, rental packages, and the opportunity to purchase your own kimono if you’re interested in owning your own garment.

This shop is open 365 days a year and offers services in English. It is conveniently located just 2 minutes from Keihuku Arashiyama station and 8 minutes from Hankyu Arashiyama station. Luggage services are also available at an additional fee.

If you go:

Address: 3-56 Susukinobaba-cho,Saga-Tenryuji,Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi

Business hours: 8:3019:00

Website: http://akahime.com/eng

Phone: 075-865-1180

Kiyomizudera

Okamoto Kimono Shop offers rental options for the whole family! Infants and children can be accommodated at this shop. According to the shop’s website, customers can expect to spend about an hour to an hour and a half preparing to go outside.

A man visits Kiyomizudera.
Photo credit: http://maiko-kyo.com/

This shop also allows customers to leave their rented garments at their hotel. They can delivery your clothing and any other luggage you may have to the hotel reception. Yukawa rental is available during July and August. There are other branches of this shop located in Gion, Yasakanotomae, Okamoto, and Central Kyoto.

If you go:

Address: 2-237-1-1 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi

Business hours: 9:00 ~ 20:00

Website:http://okamoto-kimono.com/english

Phone: 075-532-1320

Gion

Yume Kyoto, located near Yasaka Shrine, is one of the best shops in the city. Offering services in English, Chinese, and Taiwanese, Yume Kyoto is very foreigner friendly. This shop can accommodate up to fifty people in one group and fittings can also be done at your hotel.

Professional hair stylists are on site to arrange your hair in a traditional up-do. Student discounts are also available for traveling students!

If you go:

Address: 4F Yasaka building 300  Gionmachi-kitagawa Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto

Business hours: 9:00 ~ 20:00

Website:http://yumekyotokimono.com

Phone: 075-561-9410

How to choose Japanese tea

By partnering with a hundred plus artisanal Japanese tea farms and factories, we offer hundreds of green teas, and dozens of matcha, black tea, oolong tea, etc. Where do you start?

We recomend starting with Sampler Sets!