Gion is one of Kyoto’s representative tourist destinations where you can feel the atmosphere of good old Japan. Renting a kimono and exploring this beautiful area is a special experience for many visitors. Here, as someone who works at a kimono rental shop in Kyoto, I would like to introduce five activities that you should try in Gion while wearing a kimono. We hope that reading this article will make your stroll around Gion even more fulfilling.

Walking the stone pavements of Gion

Let’s start by walking the cobblestone streets of Gion in a kimono. The stone pavement around Hanamikoji and Kobu Kaburenjo looks like a scene from a historical drama. By walking slowly and feeling the atmosphere of the city, you can spend a special time that is different from your everyday life.

Visit Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine is a great place to visit wearing a kimono. Especially in the early morning and at dusk, there are fewer people and you can enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the shrine. The beautiful vermilion building of the shrine and the color of the kimono match perfectly, making for a memorable photo opportunity.

Visit a sweets shop in Hanamikoji

To relieve the fatigue of walking around Gion, we recommend spending some time at a sweets shop. Along Hanamikoji, there are many quaint sweets shops housed in old townhouses. Enjoying matcha tea and Japanese sweets while wearing a kimono is a luxurious experience unique to Kyoto.

Enjoy a meal on the riverbed of the Kamogawa River

During the summer, a riverbed is set up along the Kamo River, where you can enjoy your meal while listening to the murmuring of the river. Enjoying Kawadoko cuisine while wearing a kimono is a summer tradition in Kyoto. Enjoy summer in Kyoto with the cool breeze and delicious food.

Enjoy the night in Gion

Gion from dusk to night is filled with a different kind of charm. The light from the lanterns illuminates the path, creating a magical atmosphere. Enjoy a drink at a bar or tavern, or take a stroll at night. Kimono is sure to make the experience even more special.

Summary

Kimono rental in Gion provides a deep and rich experience that cannot be obtained simply by sightseeing. The five activities introduced in this article are all designed to help you deeply enjoy the charms of Gion. How about spending a special day wearing a kimono and getting closer to the beauty and history of the ancient capital? These activities are especially recommended to enjoy the atmosphere of Gion, but walking around in a kimono is already a wonderful experience in itself. Feel the tradition and culture of Kyoto firsthand as you walk through the streets of Gion.

When renting a kimono, you can make your stay more comfortable with a little preparation and care, such as making reservations in advance, choosing appropriate innerwear, and minimizing your luggage. It’s also a good idea to ask the staff at the rental shop for tips and recommended spots for walking around Kyoto. They have a lot of information that will make visiting more enjoyable.

Renting a kimono in Kyoto is more than just sightseeing. This is a valuable opportunity to experience Japanese traditional culture in the beautiful scenery of the ancient capital. A kimono walk in Gion is perfect for celebrating special anniversaries or spending time with your loved ones. Please take this opportunity to experience kimono rental in Kyoto. You are sure to make unforgettable memories.