Kyoto Kimono Rental mimosa Samurai PlanFeel the History

Kyoto Kimono Rental mimosa Samurai Plan: Feel the History

If you’re wandering around Kyoto’s charming Higashiyama district and want a taste of traditional Japan, the Samurai Style Kimono Experience offered by mimosa might just be your perfect addition. For $61 per person, you get to dress as a samurai for a day — complete with kimono, sword, and accessories — and walk through historic streets just minutes from Kodaiji and Kiyomizu Temple. The experience lasts roughly an hour, but the memories last much longer.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are: first, the convenient location in the picturesque Ichinenzaka area—an ideal spot to stroll, shop, and take photos. Second, the friendly, attentive staff who go out of their way to make your day comfortable, even helping with your sandals or offering to store your clothes at your hotel.

A potential consideration: the experience isn’t tailored for children under 13 or seniors over 80, so keep that in mind if traveling with family members with limited mobility.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want an authentic, fun way to connect with Japanese culture, enjoy great photo ops, and stay flexible with same-day reservations. It’s especially suited for those who value good service and appreciate a well-located base from which to explore Kyoto’s historic sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Location, Location: Close to Kodaiji and Kiyomizu temples, perfect for combining with sightseeing.
• Flexibility: Same-day reservations available, making it easy to fit into spontaneous plans.
• All-Inclusive: Complete kimono set including accessories, so no need to bring anything.
• Authentic Feel: Samurai attire symbolizes dignity, courage, and spiritual strength, enriching your cultural experience.
• Photo Opportunities: You can arrange a professional photographer, ideal for memorable keepsakes.
• Customer Service: Staff are attentive and eager to ensure your comfort, even providing services like clothing storage.

A Walkthrough of the Experience

Location and Setting

The mimosa store is situated in the heart of Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, in the scenic Ichinenzaka area. The walk from Kodaiji Temple is just two minutes, making it an ideal stop if you’re already sightseeing nearby. The area itself is a visual feast, with traditional streets lined with cafes, souvenir shops, and charming alleys that seem to have stepped out of the past. The proximity to other landmarks like Kiyomizu Temple (about a 10-minute walk) offers an opportunity to blend culture with a fun costume experience.

How the Process Works

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by staff who are dedicated to making your experience smooth and enjoyable. The set includes everything you need: kimono, obi (sash), sandals, and even a sword to complete the look. You don’t need to bring anything except your excitement — all dressing items are included in the price.

The process typically takes about an hour, but if you want more time, you can also select 2 or 3-hour packages. We loved how the staff was patient and helpful, even allowing multiple sandal changes to find the perfect fit. One reviewer mentioned, “They go out of their way to make you comfortable,” which speaks to the genuine hospitality you can expect.

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Personalization and Photo Options

If capturing your transformation is important, you can opt for a professional photographer. The reviews suggest that the quality of photos can vary depending on the photographer’s focus — some shots are fantastic, others less so. One traveler noted, “A few photos turned out great, but many were not well-framed or had closed eyes.” Still, with multiple shots taken, you’re likely to get some memorable images.

The Cultural Significance

Wearing a samurai outfit isn’t just about fun — it’s a way to embody the dignity and spirit of Japan’s legendary warriors. As one reviewer mentioned, “People stopped me on the street to take photos, and I received many compliments.” It’s a chance to feel like you’re part of history, even if only for a day, and to carry that feeling into your exploration of Kyoto.

Additional Items and Costs

Optional accessories like shawls (¥880) for cold weather, drawstring bags (¥550), and Japanese umbrellas (¥1,100) can be purchased on-site if you want to extend your experience. The store also offers a next-day or hotel return service for a fee (around ¥1,000), making it convenient if you prefer to travel light afterward.

The entire process is cashless friendly, accepting credit cards, e-money, and QR payments, which is helpful for international travelers.

How This Tour Adds Value

At $61, this experience offers excellent value considering it includes a full kimono set, accessories, and the chance to embody a samurai. The location makes it easy to combine with sightseeing, and the staff’s friendliness ensures you feel comfortable even if it’s your first time dressing in traditional attire. Plus, the option to hire a photographer allows you to leave with professional-quality photos—something many travelers cherish.

The reviews reinforce that the staff genuinely cares: “They serve you with attentive service, and they’re here to help even if it’s your first time.” Such genuine care enhances the overall experience, making it feel less like a costume rental and more like a cultural adventure.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This experience suits travelers who want to add a bit of fun and authenticity to their Kyoto visit. It’s ideal for those interested in traditional Japanese attire, cultural photos, or simply looking for a unique souvenir moment. It’s perfect if you appreciate good service, want flexibility with reservations, and enjoy picturesque surroundings.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children or elderly family members over 80, you might want to reconsider, as the experience isn’t designed for those with mobility restrictions.

Final Thoughts: Why It’s Worth It

This kimono rental experience in Kyoto combines culture with practical convenience. The location is unbeatable for sightseeing, the staff is attentive and friendly, and the price is fair for what you get. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Japanese traditions, memorable photos, and a story to tell.

For travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free way to dress like a samurai and explore Kyoto’s historic streets, this tour offers genuine value. It’s not just about clothes — it’s about feeling connected to a centuries-old heritage, all within a few steps of iconic temples.

Whether you’re a history buff, photo enthusiast, or someone wanting a fun cultural experience, this tour has enough charm and quality to make your Kyoto visit truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is same-day reservation possible for this experience? Yes, you can book on the same day, making it very flexible if plans change or you decide last minute.

What is included in the price? The fee covers the complete kimono set, including accessories like the obi, sandals, and a sword. No need to bring anything.

Are there any optional extras I can purchase? Yes, you can buy additional items such as shawls, drawstring bags, or umbrellas, and arrange for a photographer if desired.

How long does the experience last? The standard experience takes about 1 hour, but you can choose longer packages if you want more time to explore or take photos.

Can I leave my clothes at the store? Yes, they offer a service to store your clothes at your hotel for an extra fee, helpful if you want to travel light afterward.

Is this experience suitable for children? It is not recommended for children under 13, and not suitable for those over 80 years old, especially if mobility is a concern.

What language support is available? Staff can assist in English and Chinese, making the experience accessible to a broad range of travelers.

What’s the best part of this experience according to reviews? Travelers rave about the staff’s attentive service and the opportunity for great photos, with some saying it’s “absolutely wonderful” and “highly recommended.”

How is the location? It’s in a picturesque part of Kyoto, close to major temples, with many shops and cafes nearby — perfect for combining cultural sights with your costume day.

This kimono rental experience by mimosa provides a practical, fun, and culturally enriching activity. It’s especially ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free way to dress up, take photos, and enjoy Kyoto’s historic streets with excellent service and flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here: