Planning a family trip to Kyoto and worried about how to make it both fun and culturally immersive? For just around $20 per child, the Kyoto Kimono Rental mimosa offers a charming way for kids to dress up in traditional kimono or yukata and explore historic sites in style. Located in the scenic Higashiyama district, this experience is as much about capturing beautiful photos as it is about creating memorable moments.
What we love about this experience is how conveniently situated it is—just a 2-minute walk to Kodaiji Temple and about 10 minutes to Kiyomizu-dera—making it perfect for combining kimono fun with sightseeing. Plus, the staff’s friendly, attentive service and the flexibility to reserve on the same day, until 1 p.m., make it accessible even for last-minute planners. One possible consideration is that the rental is limited to children aged 1-12, so it’s not suitable for infants or very young toddlers.
This tour suits families looking for an affordable, authentic activity that adds a splash of Kyoto tradition to their day. Whether you want your kids to enjoy dressing up, take memorable photos, or just stroll around in a kimono among historic temples and lively streets, this experience hits many marks.
Key Points

- Prime Location: Close to Kodaiji and Kiyomizu-dera, ideal for combining kimono fun with sightseeing.
- Family-Friendly: Specially designed for children 1-12 years old, making it a great family activity.
- Flexible Reservations: Same-day booking available until 1 p.m., perfect for spontaneous plans.
- All-Inclusive Set: The rental includes everything needed for dressing, from kimono to accessories.
- Affordable Price: At 3,000 yen (~$20), it offers great value for a full cultural experience.
- Helpful Staff: English and Chinese-speaking staff ensure easy communication and guidance.
Exploring Kyoto Kimono Rental mimosa: A Closer Look

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Location and Accessibility
The store is situated at 602-0826 Kyoto, in the charming Ichinenzaka district, an area famed for its traditional townscape. This essentially means you’re walking into a scene straight out of a classic Kyoto postcard. The proximity to popular temples like Kodaiji and Kiyomizu-dera makes this spot perfect for combining kimono dressing with temple visits.
Getting there is straightforward with nearby bus stops such as “Higashiyama Yasui” and “Kiyomizu-michi”, so even travelers without a car can easily incorporate this activity into their Kyoto itinerary.
The Rental Experience
When you arrive, the staff greets you with warmth and professionalism. They are multilingual, offering English and Chinese support, which is a real plus for international visitors. The rental set covers everything needed for your child to look authentic—kimono or yukata, obi, tabi socks, Japanese sandals, and undergarments—so you can arrive with just your child and get dressed comfortably on-site.
The process itself is smooth and quick. The staff are happy to offer advice on how to coordinate the outfits or add optional accessories like obiage, hair sets, or umbrellas for an extra fee. The cost for extras is reasonable, and you can pay via cash, credit card, or electronic payment.
The Kimono and Yukata Options
The rental includes not only kimono but also yukata (cotton summer kimono), available from June to September. This flexibility allows you to choose something appropriate for the season, with a variety of patterns and colors that appeal to children. Many reviews emphasize the “bright and fun patterns” that make kids excited to wear them.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience and Its Charm
What truly makes this rental special is the chance for kids to feel like Kyoto residents for a short while. The staff is attentive and eager to help even first-timers get into their outfits, which is reassuring if you’re new to kimono dressing. Once dressed, you’re free to roam around the historic streets, temples, and cafes, capturing lovely photos of your children in traditional attire.
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The Cost and Value
At 3,000 yen (~$20), the price is surprisingly reasonable for such a comprehensive package. Many reviews highlight its excellent value for money, especially considering the inclusive set of dressing items and the location’s beauty. Optional items like obi ornaments, umbrellas, or hair sets are extra but affordable, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferences.
Notable Extras and Tips
If you wish to extend your time or return the kimono to your hotel the next day, there’s an additional fee of 1,000 yen. This flexibility can be particularly useful if you want to wear the kimono for a full day of sightseeing. Also, it’s recommended to reserve by 1 p.m. if you plan to go on the same day.
What to Expect During Your Visit

Itinerary Breakdown
- Arrival and Dressing: Expect a warm welcome, with staff helping your child into their kimono or yukata. The dressing process usually takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the outfit and your child’s cooperation.
- Photo Opportunities: Once dressed, you’ll want to take plenty of photos in the traditional streets, with temples like Kodaiji and Kiyomizu-dera serving as perfect backdrops.
- Strolling and Sightseeing: The location’s proximity to iconic sites means you can leisurely explore, stopping at cafes or souvenir shops while in kimono. The streets are lively but not overly crowded, making it a comfortable environment for children.
- Return or Additional Day: If you’re staying nearby, you can keep the kimono on for extended hours or return it the same day. The store’s hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., giving you ample flexibility.
Authenticity and Comfort
Travelers frequently mention how the experience makes children feel special and connected to Kyoto’s culture. The kimono fits well and feels authentic, which enhances the fun. The staff’s attentive service ensures that dressing is comfortable and less stressful for kids—a key point when managing young children.
The Surrounding Area
Post-dressing, you can explore the historic streets of Ichinenzaka, lined with cafes, shops, and traditional houses. Many visitors love stopping for matcha or souvenir shopping while still dressed in kimono, creating that classic Kyoto photo opportunity.
Final Thoughts: Is This Activity Right for You?

If you’re seeking a cost-effective, easy, and authentic way to add cultural flair to your family trip, this kimono rental experience offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for families with children aged 1-12 who want to feel part of Kyoto’s living history. The location’s proximity to major temples means you can easily combine dressing up with sightseeing.
Because of its flexible reservation policy and inclusive set, it caters well to spontaneous plans and last-minute decisions. Its friendly staff and well-organized process make it a stress-free activity—even for first-time kimono wearers.
This experience is a charming entry point into traditional Kyoto, giving kids a tangible connection to the city’s heritage without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book this activity on the same day?
Yes, same-day reservations are accepted until 1 p.m., making it convenient for spontaneous plans.
Is the activity suitable for infants?
No, the rental is intended for children aged 1 to 12 years old, so it’s not suitable for babies under 1 year.
What is included in the rental set?
The set includes a kimono or yukata, obi, tabi socks, sandals, and undergarments needed for dressing. Everything you need is provided on site.
How long does the dressing process take?
Typically around 15-30 minutes, depending on the child and outfit.
What should I do if I want to return the kimono the next day?
You can return it the following day for an additional 1,000 yen, or arrange for it to be returned to your hotel.
What payment options are available?
Payments can be made with cash, credit card, electronic money, or QR codes, offering flexibility.
Is there an option to add accessories or extras?
Yes, items like obi ornaments, umbrellas, or hair sets are available for extra fees, allowing you to customize your experience.
To sum it up, the Kyoto Kimono Rental mimosa offers a delightful and affordable way for families to engage with Kyoto’s cultural heritage. Its prime location, flexible booking, and inclusive set make it a standout choice for those looking to add a memorable, picture-worthy activity to their sightseeing day. Whether you’re after fun photos, a culture, or just a charming way for kids to feel involved in their trip, this experience ticks many boxes. Just remember to reserve early if you’re on a tight schedule—and enjoy dressing up in this beautiful Japanese tradition.
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