When visiting Kyoto in winter, renting a kimono and walking around is a special experience.
 
In this article, the author, who works at a rental shop in Kyoto, will give you detailed tips on how to enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto by renting a kimono in winter. We will deliver information unique to winter, such as measures against the cold and recommended sightseeing spots.

How to protect yourself from the cold in winter: What to wear under your kimono

How to choose warm innerwear

When wearing a kimono in winter, it is important to take measures to protect yourself from the cold. The key is choosing the innerwear to wear under the kimono. It would be a good idea to prepare the following items:
 
– Heattech inner material
– Turtleneck or high neck inner wear that does not show the collar
– leggings or tights
 
By wearing these innerwear, you can protect yourself from the cold and keep your kimono looking beautiful. In addition, you can easily get cold-resistant innerwear from brands such as Uniqlo and Muji.

Measures to protect your feet from the cold

Your feet can get cold easily, so use the following items:
 
– socks for tabi
– Tabi socks with high cold protection
– Tavi socks
 
Some rental shops have tabi socks for cold weather, so be sure to check in advance.

Recommended kimono styles and accessories for winter

How to choose a kimono that suits winter

When sightseeing in Kyoto in winter, we recommend choosing a kimono that takes into account the seasonal feel. It would be a good idea to choose a kimono made of warm material or with a winter-like design.
 
in particular
 
– Wool or silk kimono
– Warm colors and winter floral designs
 
These kimonos look warm and look great in the winter scenery of Kyoto.

essential accessories

When wearing a kimono in winter, don’t forget the following accessories:
 
– Shawls and scarves: to keep your neck warm
– Hand warmers and gloves: To protect your hands from the cold.
– Haori or coat: Keep warmer by wearing it when you go out.
 
By using these accessories, you can enjoy fashion while protecting yourself from the cold. Rental shops often allow you to rent these accessories as well, so please ask.

Kyoto sightseeing spots in winter and how to enjoy them in kimono

Sightseeing spots unique to winter

In winter, Kyoto has many spots where you can enjoy snowy scenery and a quiet atmosphere.
 
The following places are especially recommended.
 
– Kiyomizu-dera: Kiyomizu-dera is especially beautiful when covered in snow. It is also lit up at night, so you can enjoy a fantastic scenery.
– Arashiyama: You can take a leisurely stroll around the bamboo forest path and Togetsukyo Bridge in the clear winter air.
– Kinkaku-ji: When it snows, Kinkaku-ji shines white, making it even more beautiful.

Points for photography

Taking photos in kimono is also one of the pleasures of sightseeing in Kyoto in winter. Take beautiful photos by keeping the following points in mind:
 
– Incorporate a winter scene into the background : You can create a sense of the season by using a snowy scene or a winter feature as a background.
– Take advantage of natural light: The soft sunlight of winter will bring out the colors and textures of your kimono beautifully.
– Use accessories : Use accessories such as shawls and scarves to add accents to your outfits.

A break at a warm cafe

When sightseeing in winter, we recommend taking a break at a cafe to warm up your body from the cold. Here are some Japanese-style cafes in Kyoto where you can stop by while wearing a kimono:
 
– Ippodo Tea Shop : A long-established tea shop where you can enjoy tea and Japanese sweets. Perfect for relaxing and enjoying tea while wearing a kimono.
– Amato Chaya : A cafe where you can enjoy Japanese-style sweets and light meals. Warm matcha and zenzai will warm your body.

summary

When renting a kimono and sightseeing in Kyoto in winter, it is important to take precautions against the cold and choose kimonos and accessories that are appropriate for the season. Please enjoy the unique winter scenery of Kyoto while making use of accessories such as cold-weather innerwear, tabi socks, shawls, and mufflers.
 
You can also enjoy winter sightseeing spots and take breaks at cafes for a memorable day.
 
When renting a kimono, please consult with the staff at the rental shop and choose the style and cold protection that suit you. Enjoy Kyoto in winter to the fullest while wearing nice attire.