A special time to take a walk through the beautiful scenery of Kyoto while wearing a kimono. Here, we introduce recommended courses that are perfect for a kimono rental walk in Kyoto. Enjoy a special and memorable time in a place where tradition and modernity intersect.

Gion/Higashiyama course with a traditional scent

The Gion and Higashiyama areas of Kyoto are areas where the atmosphere of the ancient capital remains, and are perfect places to stroll around wearing a kimono. With cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and traditional townhouses, you’ll find picturesque scenery everywhere you look. Here we will introduce recommended spots and routes for kimono walking in the Gion and Higashiyama areas.

Walk along Gion Shirakawa

Gion Shirakawa is a spot visited by many tourists and photography enthusiasts due to its beautiful scenery. Cherry blossom trees are planted along the Shirakawa River, and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom in spring. This place, where time passes slowly along with the murmuring of the river, is perfect for a stroll in a kimono. If you visit as a couple, you can spend a wonderful time in a romantic atmosphere.

Visit to Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine, a symbol of Gion, is a place that gives energy to those who visit. The shrine grounds are always crowded with many worshipers, but visiting the shrine wearing a kimono is a special experience that allows you to experience the traditions of Kyoto. There is also a god of love fulfillment and matchmaking within the shrine grounds, so it is also recommended for couples to visit.

Feel the atmosphere of Hanamikoji

Hanamikoji, located in the center of Gion, is a street lined with traditional Kyoto townhouses, where you can fully experience the atmosphere of Kyoto. Walking through the alleys will make you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the good old days. As you pass by teahouses and restaurants, you can experience the calm night of Kyoto.

History walk in Higashiyama area

The Higashiyama area is dotted with historical temples such as Kiyomizu-dera and Sanjusangen-do. By visiting these temples, you can experience Kyoto’s ancient culture and history. The view from Kiyomizu-dera Temple is particularly spectacular, and by visiting in a kimono, you will be able to appreciate its beauty even more deeply.

Use of kimono rental

To enjoy a kimono stroll in the Gion and Higashiyama areas even more, we recommend renting a kimono. If you make a reservation in advance, you can choose your favorite kimono and have it professionally fitted. Additionally, many kimono rental shops also offer photography services and luggage storage services, so you can easily enjoy strolling around empty-handed.

Kimono stroll in Gion and Higashiyama is Kyoto

It is a special experience where you can feel the traditional culture of Japan up close. Whether you’re visiting as a couple or traveling with friends and family, it’s sure to be a memorable day. Plan ahead and have a great time while experiencing Kyoto’s history and culture.

Arashiyama/Randen course, walking with cherry blossoms

Arashiyama offers a particularly beautiful view during the spring cherry blossom season. A walk combined with Randen (Keifuku Electric Railway) is a special experience that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms and the charm of Arashiyama even more deeply. You can create unforgettable memories by wearing a kimono and visiting spots where colorful kimonos stand out against the backdrop of seasonal scenery.

Enjoy traveling by Randen

Randen is a line that connects the city of Kyoto to Arashiyama, and is known for the beautiful scenery along the way. Especially in spring, when the cherry blossoms along the line are in full bloom, the view of the cherry blossoms from the train is spectacular. Walking while looking at the cherry blossoms from the Randen window will add a touch of glamor to your stroll in a kimono.
To board the Randen train, start from Shijo-Omiya Station or Arashiyama Station. Both stations have kimono rental shops nearby, making it convenient for walking around in kimono.

Visiting cherry blossom spots in Arashiyama

The Arashiyama area is dotted with many famous cherry blossom viewing spots. By visiting these spots in a kimono, you can fully enjoy Kyoto in spring.

– Cherry blossoms around Togetsukyo Bridge
Cherry blossoms are planted along the river near Togetsukyo Bridge, the symbol of Arashiyama, and you can walk through a tunnel of cherry blossoms in spring. The view of cherry blossoms and Arashiyama from Togetsukyo Bridge is the perfect spot for taking photos in kimono.

– Arashiyama Park/Nakanoshima Park
At Nakanoshima Park within Arashiyama Park, you can enjoy a wide variety of cherry blossoms. You can enjoy various types of cherry blossoms while strolling through the park.

Tips for enjoying Arashiyama walking in kimono

– Choosing a kimono rental shop: There are many kimono rental shops around Arashiyama. By making a reservation in advance, you can choose the kimono of your choice.

– For a comfortable walk: Long walks in kimono tend to put a lot of strain on your legs and body. Please take measures to make your stay comfortable, such as taking breaks as needed while strolling, and paying attention to the selection of sandals and geta.

A kimono walk in Arashiyama that combines cherry blossoms and Randen is one of the most attractive experiences in spring in Kyoto. Couples should enjoy the moment when their colorful kimonos stand out even more against the beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms. Unforgettable memories are waiting for you both.

City atmosphere, Shijo Karasuma course

The Shijo Karasuma area is Kyoto’s business and cultural intersection, blending ancient traditions with a modern, sophisticated lifestyle. Strolling through this area is a special experience where you can feel the old and new Kyoto in an urban atmosphere. Walking around in a kimono will make the experience even more special. Below, we will introduce courses and spots that you can enjoy in the Shijo Karasuma area.

Intersection of Shijo-dori and Karasuma-dori

Shijo Karasuma is one of the busiest intersections in Kyoto. We recommend using this intersection as your starting point for a stroll through the surrounding shopping, gourmet food, and historical sites.
The landscape of modern buildings and traditional stores is unique to Kyoto. In particular, there are shops selling traditional Kyoto crafts and cafes that use locally produced ingredients.

Shopping at Takashimaya Kyoto store

Takashimaya Kyoto store, located along Shijo-dori, carries a wide range of items, including products unique to Kyoto, as well as fashion and miscellaneous goods. Shopping in a kimono is a special experience.

Art experience at Kyoto BAL

Kyoto BAL, located in Shijo Karasuma, is a complex where you can enjoy not only shopping but also galleries and cafes. Contemporary art exhibitions are held regularly here, and you can enjoy viewing them while wearing a kimono.

Meals at delicious restaurants

There are many delicious restaurants around Shijo Karasuma, including Kyoto cuisine and Japanese sweets shops. In particular, you can enjoy your meal while feeling the atmosphere of Kyoto at the restaurant, which is a renovated traditional Kyoto townhouse.

Use of kimono rental

There are several kimono rental shops around Shijo Karasuma. By wearing traditional kimono in an urban atmosphere, you can enjoy a special experience that only lasts for one day. By making a reservation in advance, you can choose your favorite kimono and accessories.

History and culture, Kiyomizu Temple area course

The area around Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a place that many people visit when visiting Kyoto. This area is home to many famous spots where you can experience Kyoto’s rich history and culture, making it the perfect area to stroll around in a kimono. By wearing a kimono and walking through the quaint streets, you can reminisce about the good old days of Kyoto. Here we will introduce a walking course centered around Kiyomizu-dera Temple and its highlights.

Kiyomizu Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the highlights of Kyoto tourism. This temple, which is also registered as a World Heritage Site, is especially famous for the view from the “Shimizu Stage”. You can enjoy the scenery of each season, with cherry blossoms in the spring and beautiful autumn leaves in the fall.

Sannenzaka/Ninenzaka

Walking along Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, which are close to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, you will find traditional Kyoto-style townhouses, souvenir shops, and cafes, giving you a feel of old Kyoto. This area is the perfect place to stroll around in a kimono.

Kodaiji Temple

A short walk from Kiyomizu-dera is Kodai-ji. Built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s wife Nene, this temple is known for its beautiful garden. The magical atmosphere especially when lit up at night is worth a visit.

Yasaka Pagoda (Hokanji Temple)

Yasaka Pagoda (the five-storied pagoda of Hokanji Temple), located on the way from Kiyomizu Temple to Yasaka Shrine, is a beautiful pagoda that stands out against the Kyoto skyline. The area around this tower also gives you the feel of an ancient capital, and is recommended for a walk in a kimono.

Use of kimono rental

There are many kimono rental shops around Kiyomizu Temple. If you make a reservation in advance and choose the kimono of your choice, you can enjoy your stroll even more. You can spend the day comfortably with kimono dressing by professional staff.

Tips for walking

Kiyomizu-dera Temple and its surrounding area are crowded with tourists during the day. If you start your walk early in the morning when there are fewer people, you can enjoy the beauty of Kyoto in a quiet atmosphere.
The area around Kiyomizu-dera Temple is full of picturesque scenery no matter where you look. In particular, taking photos in kimono will be a wonderful memory of your trip.

Beauty of old and new, Kyoto Station area course

As the gateway to Kyoto, the area around Kyoto Station has a unique atmosphere that blends old and new. Historic temples and traditional townhouses, located just a short walk from modern architecture, are a major draw to this area. Renting a kimono and strolling around is a great opportunity to experience the multifaceted beauty of this area. Below, we will introduce recommended courses for kimono rental walks around Kyoto Station.

Exploring Kyoto Station Building

The Kyoto Station building itself is known as a masterpiece of modern architecture. The structure using huge glass and the interior space design are a must-see. In particular, the view from the Grand Staircase and the Aerial Corridor is a great spot to get a panoramic view of Kyoto.

Higashi Honganji Temple/Nishi Honganji Temple

Higashi Hongan-ji and Nishi Hongan-ji are both historic temples that are registered as World Heritage Sites, just a short walk from Kyoto Station. The vast grounds and magnificent architecture are breathtaking, giving you a sense of the traditional beauty of Kyoto.

Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower, located in front of Kyoto Station, is the tallest building in Kyoto City. From the observation deck, you can see not only Kyoto city but also Osaka city and Mt. Hiei in the distance. It is also perfect for taking commemorative photos in kimono.

Umekoji Park

Umekoji Park, located a little west of Kyoto Station, is a vast park where you can enjoy seasonal flowers and lush scenery. Especially in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, it’s the perfect place to take a stroll in a kimono.

Use of kimono rental

There are several kimono rental shops around Kyoto Station. By making a reservation in advance, you can choose your favorite kimono and have it fitted by professional staff. You can stay comfortable all day long with the technology that keeps it from falling off.

Tips for walking

The area around Kyoto Station covers a wide area, and there are many things to see. It is important to make a list of the spots you want to visit in advance and plan an efficient route.
Walking around in a kimono for a long time can easily exhaust your physical strength, so be sure to take breaks as needed while strolling. There are many stylish cafes and traditional sweets shops around Kyoto Station, so be sure to stop by.