When enjoying sightseeing in Kyoto, renting a kimono or yukata and strolling through the quaint streets is a special experience.
 
In this article, we will introduce sightseeing spots in the Gion area of Kyoto where you can rent kimonos and yukata and enjoy them conveniently. The author, who works at a rental shop in Kyoto, will provide detailed information on how to choose a rental shop and recommended sightseeing spots. Please refer to this and enjoy your special time in Kyoto.

Recommended shops for kimono rental

There are many kimono rental shops in the Gion area of Kyoto. Among them, we will introduce some particularly recommended shops. Please understand the characteristics of each shop and find the one that suits you.

Waplus Kyoto Yasaka Shrine store

Waplus Kyoto Yasaka Shrine store is located right next to Yasaka Shrine, making it a convenient shop that you can easily stop by in between sightseeing.
 
We have a wide variety of kimono and yukata designs, and are especially popular with foreign tourists. Even first-time users can use our service with confidence, as our professional staff will provide attentive service.

Rental Japanese clothes Hannari

Rental Japanese Clothing Hannari is located a 5-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station and has a wide variety of kimono and yukata designs. Our friendly staff will provide you with full support, so even first-time users can rent with confidence. Another appeal is that you can use it smoothly by making advance reservations.

Kyokomachi Rental

Kyokomachi Rental is located a 3-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station and offers a wide range of Japanese clothing from casual to formal. There are a variety of kimono and yukata designs, so it’s easy to find one you like.
 
Discounts may be applied if you make advance reservations, so we recommend that you plan accordingly.

Walking in Japanese clothes at Yasaka Shrine

After renting a kimono or yukata in Gion, we recommend visiting Yasaka Shrine first. Located in the center of Gion, this shrine is the perfect spot to stroll around in Japanese kimono.

The charm of Yasaka Shrine

Yasaka Shrine is known as the guardian deity of Kyoto and is also famous as the center of the Gion Festival. The spacious grounds are filled with beautiful architecture and gardens, making it a perfect location to take photos in Japanese kimono.
 
Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the changing leaves in autumn, you can enjoy even more gorgeous scenery.

Recommended walking courses

Main shrine

Visit the shrine in a sacred atmosphere and enjoy taking commemorative photos in kimono.

Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park, adjacent to Yasaka Shrine, is a place where you can enjoy nature in all four seasons. The cherry blossoms in the spring and the autumn leaves in the fall are beautiful, making it perfect for a walk in Japanese clothes.

Gion townscape

Near Yasaka Shrine is the Gion area, where you can feel the atmosphere of Kyoto. Lined with cobblestone streets and traditional townhouses, walking around in Japanese clothing will make you feel as if you have traveled back in time.

A walk in Japanese clothing to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

It is about a 20 minute walk from Yasaka Shrine to Kiyomizu Temple. Strolling through the quaint townscape is a special experience that can only be experienced while wearing kimono.

The road to Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Ninenzaka/Sannenzaka

On the way from Yasaka Shrine to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, there are two scenic slopes called Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. The area is lined with old townhouses and souvenir shops, making it a great place to stroll.

Sanneizaka

Continuing further, you will arrive at Sannenzaka, which leads to Kiyomizu-dera Temple. This slope is also lined with old-fashioned buildings, and there are many spots where you can take photos while walking in Japanese clothing.

Highlights of Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous tourist destinations. The view from the stage in the main hall is especially spectacular, and is perfect for taking commemorative photos in Japanese clothes.

main hall stage

From the stage of the main hall located on a hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto city. You can enjoy the scenery of each season, so you can experience different beauty depending on the season you visit.

Otowa Falls

At Otowa Falls, known for its famous water from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, you can experience drawing water. If you visit in kimono, you can feel the Japanese tradition even more.

summary

Renting a kimono or yukata in Gion and visiting Yasaka Shrine or Kiyomizu Temple is a great way to enjoy all that Kyoto has to offer.
 
Experience a special trip to Kyoto in kimono, with information on everything from how to use rental shops to recommended sightseeing spots. Walking around in Japanese clothes will be a memory that will last a lifetime.