Kanazawa is a city that effortlessly blends the old and new, making it a perfect place to try on a traditional Japanese kimono. Unlike Kyoto or Tokyo, Kanazawa’s less crowded streets and well-preserved districts offer a more intimate setting for kimono wearers. Whether you want to stroll through historic alleyways or capture striking photos, the options here cater to all tastes. We particularly like the Kimono Rental Traditional Experience at WARGO for its extensive kimono selection and helpful staff, and the Selfie Photo Experiences for their creative backdrops and private settings. If you’re looking to take home a keepsake, the Buy Kimono option lets you pick out your favorite design.
For travelers wanting a fully immersive experience, the city offers everything from quick photo shoots to full-day guided tours dressed in kimono. The choice depends on your budget, available time, and interest in cultural details. The following list covers ten of the most engaging kimono experiences in Kanazawa, each with its own twist — from traditional rentals to innovative photo sessions. Let’s explore what each has to offer.
1. Kanazawa:Traditional Experience -kimono rent at wargo
This popular spot is just a 10-minute walk from Kenrokuen Garden, placing it right in the heart of Kanazawa’s sightseeing district. The Kimono Rental at Wargo offers a straightforward, affordable way to wear traditional dress while exploring the city. For about $33 per person, you’ll get dressed in a beautiful kimono with assistance from friendly staff, ensuring you look authentic and feel comfortable. You can also choose the premium plan if you’d like hairstyling or more kimono options.
What makes this experience stand out is its convenient location and the opportunity to create lifelong memories. After getting dressed, you’re encouraged to walk through historic streets, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. The staff’s help makes this accessible even for first-timers. The cost-effectiveness makes it ideal for travelers on a budget who want to experience authentic Japan without the fuss. Plus, the store’s central location means you can easily continue sightseeing afterward.
Bottom Line: Simple, affordable, and centrally located, this rental is perfect for a quick, memorable kimono experience in Kanazawa.
2. Kanazawa: Japanese Kimono Rental near Higashi Chaya District
Just a 4-minute walk from Higashi Chaya District, this kimono rental shop offers a more personalized experience. With a 5/5 rating from four reviews, it’s clear visitors value the welcoming atmosphere and extensive kimono selection. At $54 per person, this experience emphasizes culture with a broad range of traditional kimonos to choose from, plus options for larger groups.
What sets this experience apart is the opportunity to explore one of Kanazawa’s most charming districts in full traditional style. After dressing in your kimono, you can visit a nearby Selfie Photo Studio to capture your look professionally, making this perfect for social media or lasting keepsakes. The staff is known for accommodating large groups, making it suitable for friends or family outings.
Bottom Line: For those wanting to explore Higashi Chaya District in traditional attire and enjoy professional photo options, this is an excellent, personalized choice.
3. Kanazawa: Kimono Rental Traditional Experience at WARGO
This option is a more extended, flexible experience at Wargo, allowing you to dress in a kimono and enjoy a 1 to 6-hour window to explore Kanazawa. The package includes a wide selection of kimonos, from traditional patterns to modern designs, with staff ready to assist with dressing. The total cost is around $37, which includes the kimono, sash belt (obi), Japanese clutch, sandals, and socks, with hairstyling available for an extra fee.
What makes this experience stand out is its versatility. Whether you want a quick stroll or a prolonged photo session, the flexible hours accommodate your schedule. The staff’s assistance ensures you get the proper fit, and the variety of kimono styles lets you match your mood or setting. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, immersive experience with high-quality photos.
Review highlight: “The dressing process can take less than 10 minutes if not busy,” says one reviewer, illustrating the efficiency and professionalism here.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting flexibility and a wide kimono selection, along with professional help to look their best for photos or sightseeing.
4. Kanazawa: Selfie Photo Experience with Rental Kimono – Moon
If your goal is memorable photos with a creative twist, this moon-themed studio offers something different. For just $23, you get a rental kimono and a private space to take unlimited shots against a moon-inspired backdrop. The studio also provides a fully equipped makeup room, so you can perfect your look before snapping away.
The highlight here is the unique moon-themed setting—not your typical street photos. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized, artistic photoshoot without the hassle of outdoor shooting. The all-data transfer means you’ll leave with a collection of high-quality images, perfect for sharing or prints.
Review: With a 5/5 rating from two reviews, visitors praise the emotional and artistic experience. It’s perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone seeking creative photos.
Bottom Line: A distinctive studio for those wanting to combine kimono dressing with artsy, moonlit photography in a private setting.
5. Kanazawa: Selfie Photo Experience with Rental Kimono – Color
This experience brings fun and colorful backgrounds into your kimono photos, just a minute from Higashi Chaya District. For $27, you get unlimited shots over 12 minutes, along with all your photo data. The backdrop features three vibrant colors, making your images pop with personality.
What’s special about this session is its quick, fun format — ideal for travelers short on time but wanting distinct photos. The private studio and fully equipped makeup space help you look your best in every shot.
Review: It has a perfect 5/5 from one reviewer, who calls it “a fun way to get colorful photos in traditional clothing.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking lively, colorful photo sessions close to the Higashi Chaya area.
$27 per person
6. Buy Kimono: Choose from your favorite kimono and obi!
If you’re looking for a truly memorable souvenir, this shop lets you select your favorite kimono and obi to keep as a memento. For around $130, you get a personal consultation with staff who help you pick the perfect style, and they’ll teach you how to wear it if needed.
The process is more about personalized shopping and experience than just rental. One reviewer mentioned, “I went in September to look at kimono for my wife, and I ended up jumping into the action myself. It was lots of fun and a great souvenir.”
This option is ideal for those who want a lasting keepsake of their trip, along with a special memory of choosing and wearing their own kimono.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a custom experience and a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
$130.35 per person
7. Kanazawa: Rental Kimono Selfie Photo Experience
In just about 30 minutes, you can rent a kimono and take unlimited selfies at this studio. It’s a quick, fun option for travelers with limited time who want bright, lively photos. The studio provides a private space and all data transfer, so you leave with a set of personal images.
Located just a minute from Higashi Chaya, it’s very convenient for passing travelers. The affordability at around $21 makes it accessible, and the focus on selfie-style photos appeals to those wanting casual, fun shots.
Review: With a 5/5 from one reviewer, it’s praised for its simplicity and fast service.
Bottom Line: Ideal for quick, playful photos with minimal fuss.
$21.19 per person
8. Kanazawa: 6 hr Private Guided Tour & Kimono Experience
For a more comprehensive experience, this 6-hour private tour combines sightseeing with kimono wearing. Starting at the Wargo Kimono Rental, you’ll be dressed by a professional and enjoy a simple hairstyle for about an hour. Then, explore Kanazawa Castle and other historic sites, camera in hand.
This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want a guided experience with the added bonus of dressing like a local. The full-day itinerary offers insights into Kanazawa’s food, tea, and cultural highlights, making it rich and immersive.
While it’s pricier at nearly $193, the personalized guide and all-in-one experience make it worthwhile for those wanting a deeper cultural connection. One note: The guide has no reviews yet, but the itinerary suggests a well-rounded day.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a guided, all-in-one cultural experience with kimono dressing included.
$192.96 per person
9. Kimono Rental: JPY 6,050~
This simple rental shop offers a short-term kimono experience close to many attractions. For about $43, you can choose from various kimono styles and take photos in a quick session, approximately an hour.
It’s practical for travelers who want something straightforward without extra frills. The shop is near tourist sites, and the focus is on easy usability and variety. The reviews are currently unavailable, but the emphasis on short, simple rentals makes this a flexible choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a quick, no-fuss kimono rental close to attractions.
$42.82 per person
10. Kanazawa Kimono Walking Plan
This one-hour kimono walking plan is based right next to Higashi Chaya Street. It handles everything from kimono selection and dressing to optional hair setting. The entire process takes 45 minutes to an hour, making it a quick yet immersive way to experience traditional dress during your sightseeing.
The plan is ideal for small groups or individuals who want to enjoy Kanazawa in kimono without investing in a full-day tour. Its proximity to key attractions guarantees you’ll be dressed and ready to explore swiftly.
Bottom Line: Efficient, convenient, and centrally located for a quick, authentic kimono experience.
$55.86 per person
How to Choose the Best Kimono Experience in Kanazawa
When selecting a kimono experience, think about your budget, available time, and what you want to get out of it. For a budget-friendly, quick photo, the Selfie Kimono Studio Moon or Selfie Color are perfect. They’re close to Higashi Chaya and offer fun, colorful options.
If you want to explore Kanazawa more deeply and combine it with sightseeing, the 6 hr Guided Tour with Kimono provides a comprehensive experience, but at a higher cost.
For those who want to keep a special souvenir, the Buy Kimono experience offers the chance to select and purchase your favorite style, turning your trip into a lasting memory.
Lastly, if you’re short on time but want to capture a few photos in traditional attire, the Kimono Rental at Wargo is simple, affordable, and centrally located.
Final Thoughts
Kanazawa’s kimono experiences range from quick selfies to full-day tours, fitting various interests and schedules. If you’re after a creative photoshoot, the Moon or Color studios are excellent choices. For a more immersive cultural experience, the 6-hour guided tour offers history, sightseeing, and kimono dressing all in one.
Travelers on a budget will appreciate the convenient and affordable rentals near key districts, while those wanting to take home a memorable souvenir should consider the buy options. No matter your preference, it’s wise to book early, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage.
Enjoy slipping into traditional attire and exploring Kanazawa’s picturesque streets — it’s a fun, authentic way to connect with Japan’s heritage.