Japan Kyoto | Kyoto Station Kimono Rental Experience & Photo Shoot & Makeup [Aiwafuku Kyoto Station Store] | English & Chinese Support | Kyoto Kimono Rental Aiwafuku
- A kimono rental shop managed by an owner with 40 years of experience in the Japanese kimono industry.
- Dressing and hair styling are handled by staff who hold national qualifications and dressing licenses.
- We have staff available who can speak Chinese, English, Korean, Taiwanese, and Japanese.
- We offer a wide variety of over 600 kimonos, with lace kimonos, Taisho Roman retro kimonos, and yukatas all available at the same price.
- Large sizes (2L to 5L) for both women and men are available for kimonos and yukatas at no extra cost.
- Photo shoot plans: Choose from 30-minute, 60-minute, or 120-minute courses.
- We offer free storage for large luggage (suitcases).
- Women's hair styling includes a wide selection of styles and unlimited use of hair accessories.
- Located within a 3-minute walk from the nearest station and tourist spots, making it easy to access without getting lost.
- Next-day return is available (additional ¥1,100 per person).
- Returns at other branches are also possible (additional ¥1,100 per person) (Arashiyama Togetsukyo, Kiyomizu Yasaka Pagoda, Fushimi Inari, Gion-Shijo, Kyoto Station).
Package options
Cultural Experiences
| Activity time | Morning, Afternoon |
| Transportation method | Get there on your own |
| Location | Outdoor |
| Experience type | Costume rental |
| Rental duration | All-day |
| Outfit type | Kimono, Yukata |
| Additional service & facility | Makeup & hairstyle, Photography service, Luggage Storage |
| Cultural experience type | Traditional culture experience |
Product Info
What You Can Expect
1 Day
- Store Exterior: Located right near Kyoto Station! 【AIWAFUKU Kyoto Station Store】 is on the 6th floor of a 10-story building. Look for the ticket shop on the 1st floor.
- In-store: Our shop is filled with a wide selection of kimonos and accessories. We offer a rich variety for both men and women.
- Kimono Selection: Choose your favorite from our wide variety of kimonos. Our professional dressers will also suggest a coordination that suits you best.
- Kimono Selection: We offer a wide variety of kimonos to choose from.
- Premium Furisode Plan: We offer a wide selection of Furisode, characterized by their long sleeves and gorgeous designs featuring shimmering gold and silver accents.
- Couple Kimono/Yukata Plan: Choose your favorite kimono or yukata together and enjoy a special discounted rate for two.
- Women's Kimono/Yukata Plan: Choose your favorite from a wide range of designs and enjoy a hassle-free kimono experience.
- Men's/Children's Kimono & Yukata Plan (Men's Kimono & Men's Formal Black Montsuki Hakama): Casual men's kimonos are recommended for beginners. The black Montsuki Hakama is a highly formal traditional outfit, perfect for pairing with a photo shoot.
- Men's/Children's Kimono & Yukata Plan (Boys' & Girls' Kimono): We have a wide range of sizes for adorable children's kimonos, starting from a height of 70cm.
- Men's/Children's Kimono & Yukata Plan (Formal Wear for Boys and Girls): We provide kimonos for girls aged 7, boys aged 5, and girls aged 3.
- Dressing: Professional kimono dressers will assist you. We create beautiful obi knots tailored to each individual.
- Hair Styling: Hair styling is performed by professional stylists with national qualifications. You can use as many hair accessories as you like with no limit.
- Hair Accessories: You can use as many hair accessories as you like with no limit.
- Hair Styling Menu: Consult with our stylists to find the perfect, most flattering hairstyle for you.
- Outing: The bus terminal is right in front of the shop. It is convenient for traveling anywhere, including Kiyomizu-dera, Gion, Arashiyama, and Fushimi Inari.
- Return: Please return to the shop by 17:30.
- 【Japanese Makeup】 A professional makeup service to make you look even more beautiful. The session takes about 15 minutes. Our professional stylists will carefully apply foundation, eye makeup (eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara), eyebrows, blush, and lipstick to match your kimono. Please book this in conjunction with your kimono rental.
- 【Professional Location Photography】 You can book a 30-minute course (approx. 50 photo files), a 60-minute course (approx. 100 photo files), or a 120-minute course (approx. 200 photo files). The photo data will be sent to you via email at a later date with a download URL. Please book this in conjunction with your kimono rental.
- Return at Another Store Option: You can use our 'Return at Another Store' option to return your kimono at a different branch than the one where you rented it, depending on your sightseeing route. This allows you to return it while on the move, making efficient use of your time without unnecessary travel. Please inform the reception on the day if you wish to use this service. (Additional charge of ¥1,100 per person)
- English maps are available.
Purchase Notice
Dressing and hair styling takes about 30 minutes.
The time it takes to choose a kimono and pack your belongings will vary from person to person, so your total time in the shop will be approximately one hour.
The estimated time is one hour, but this may vary during busy periods.
Also, if it takes time to choose a kimono, we may change the order in which you are dressed.
The last return time is 17:30.
If you want to enjoy the bike until late into the night, we recommend the next-day return option (an additional 1,100 yen per person). Please ask the reception staff on the day.
Please note that there are four steps before the elevator, so please be careful if you are using a wheelchair or stroller.
The store itself is flat and the entrance is wide, so it is possible to enter and wait in a wheelchair or with a stroller.
If you wish to return the item at another store, please pay ¥1,100 on site.
Reminders
You can generally come empty-handed, but we recommend wearing light-colored underwear such as white or beige in the summer, and thin innerwear or leggings in the winter.
You can come at your scheduled appointment time. There's no need to arrive earlier.
How to Redeem Your Voucher
How to Use Your Voucher
- Please present the e-voucher on-site
Validity Period
- The voucher must be used on the selected date and within operating hours; Invalid after expiration
Experience Location
Location Name: Kimono Rental Aiwafuku Kyoto Station Front Store
Address: 544-2 Higashi-Shiokoji-cho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, ON Building 6FMonday 09:00–18:00
Tuesday 09:00–18:00
Wednesday 09:00–18:00
Thursday 09:00–18:00
Friday 09:00–18:00
Saturday 09:00–18:00
Sunday 09:00–18:00
FAQs
1. What is the general process for renting a kimono at Kyoto Aiwafuku, and how long can I keep it?
The process at Kyoto Aiwafuku typically involves selecting your preferred kimono or yukata, followed by professional dressing and hair styling. You can then enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto. Most rentals are for a full day, with return usually by late afternoon or evening on the same day. However, Kyoto Aiwafuku also offers flexible options like next-day returns for added convenience, allowing more time to explore.
2. Is it culturally appropriate for non-Japanese tourists to wear a kimono from Kyoto Aiwafuku in Kyoto, and what is the cultural perspective?
Yes, it is widely considered culturally appropriate and a beautiful way for foreign visitors to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. Many locals appreciate tourists who respectfully engage with their traditions. When wearing a kimono from Kyoto Aiwafuku, it's encouraged to maintain a respectful demeanor and enjoy the experience, honoring the heritage it represents. Choosing a reputable shop like Kyoto Aiwafuku ensures authentic dressing techniques.
3. What practical considerations are there when wearing a kimono from Kyoto Aiwafuku, especially regarding undergarments and using restrooms?
When wearing a kimono from Kyoto Aiwafuku, it's generally advised to wear minimal undergarments, such as light underwear, as the kimono itself involves many layers. For women, a soft, non-padded bra is usually best, or no bra for comfort. For restroom use, lift the outer kimono layers, then the inner layers, holding them securely to avoid soiling, and squat carefully. The staff can provide further guidance during your fitting.
4. How accessible is the Kyoto Aiwafuku Kyoto Station Branch for tourists arriving at JR Kyoto Station?
The Kyoto Aiwafuku Kyoto Station Branch boasts excellent accessibility. It is conveniently located right in front of the Kyoto Station bus terminal, making it very easy to find immediately upon arrival at JR Kyoto Station. Furthermore, it is within a three-minute walk from the nearest station and various tourist spots, allowing you to quickly start your sightseeing without extensive travel after getting dressed.
5. What types of kimonos, yukatas, or furisode are available for rental at Kyoto Aiwafuku, and are there options for all sizes?
Kyoto Aiwafuku offers a wide selection of over 200 kimonos, including modern lace kimonos, Taisho Romantic retro styles, and yukatas, all available at the same rental option level. For those seeking a more formal option, furisode plans are also provided. The shop caters to diverse body types, offering large sizes from 2L to 5L for both men and women, ensuring a comfortable fit for everyone without additional charges.
6. Does Kyoto Aiwafuku offer support for international customers, such as multilingual staff and hair styling services?
Yes, Kyoto Aiwafuku is well-equipped to assist international visitors. They have staff who can communicate in Chinese, English, Korean, Taiwanese, and Japanese, ensuring smooth communication. For women, professional hair styling is included, with choices from 5 to 10 different styles, and you can freely choose from a variety of hair accessories to complete your look. They also offer free storage for large luggage.
7. Can I return my rented kimono from Kyoto Aiwafuku at a different branch or arrange for a next-day return?
Yes, Kyoto Aiwafuku offers flexible return options. You can return your rented kimono at any of their other branches, including those near Arashiyama Togetsukyo Bridge, Kiyomizu Yasaka Pagoda, Fushimi Inari, and Gion Shijo, in addition to the Kyoto Station branch. For extended enjoyment, next-day returns are also available, providing convenience if your itinerary extends into the evening.
8. What is the recommended method to book a kimono rental experience with Kyoto Aiwafuku?
To book a kimono rental experience with Kyoto Aiwafuku, you can easily make reservations online. Using a reputable travel e-commerce platform like KKday allows you to conveniently browse available plans, select your preferred date and time, and secure your booking in advance. This ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience upon arrival, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time in Kyoto without worrying about last-minute arrangements.
