When you hear about renting clothes in Kyoto, many people will think of kimonos and yukatas, but there are many other unique ways to enjoy renting clothes in Kyoto.
 
In this article, we will not introduce the plan, but rather ways to enjoy costume rentals and ideas that are unique to Kyoto.

The appeal of costume rentals unique to Kyoto

A fusion of tradition and modernity

Kyoto is a city where traditional Japanese culture and modern trends blend together. You can enjoy this fusion in costume rentals as well. For example, you can create your own unique style by combining a traditional kimono with modern accessories and small items.
 
Recently, a Japanese-Western fusion style has become popular, and instead of just wearing it over Western clothes, you can combine it with Western-style hats and boots to create a modern Japanese look.

A rental shop that offers a special experience

In Kyoto, there are rental shops that don’t just rent costumes but also provide a special experience.
 
For example, there are shops where you can rent samurai or ninja costumes and try out kendo or ninjutsu, or plans where you can wear maiko or geiko costumes and learn authentic dance. The appeal of these experiences is that you can not only wear costumes, but also experience the culture and history of the area.

How to enjoy each season

Kyoto is home to a wide variety of seasonal events, and you can also rent costumes to go with them. For the cherry blossom festival in spring or autumn leaf viewing in fall, you can choose clothes that reflect the season and take photos that are unique to that time of year.
 
In the summer, we also recommend wearing a cool yukata and enjoying meals on the riverside terrace or watching fireworks. Experience the different charms of Kyoto with seasonal costume rentals.

Unique costume rental ideas

Taisho Romantic style costume

“Taisho Roman” style costume rentals are popular, allowing you to enjoy the retro atmosphere of the Taisho period. By renting antique kimonos and hakama and visiting retro cafes and old mansions, you can experience what it’s like to have traveled back in time to the Taisho period.
 
In particular, the Gion and Arashiyama areas, with their retro streetscapes, are perfect for Taisho Romantic style clothing.

Movie and anime character costumes

In Kyoto, you can rent and enjoy costumes of movie and anime characters. In particular, characters with historical backgrounds and Japanese-style characters are a perfect match for the streets of Kyoto. One way to enjoy the city is to dress up in your favorite character’s costume and visit the filming locations of movies and anime.
 
Cosplay events are also held regularly, providing an opportunity to meet people with the same hobby.

Theme park outfits

Kyoto is also home to a Japanese-style theme park where you can rent costumes unique to theme parks.
 
For example, you can rent unique costumes that you would not normally wear, such as Edwardian-style costumes or Arabian Nights costumes, and enjoy the theme park all day long. Families with children can also enjoy costume parties, making for a memorable day.

Tips for enjoying costume rental even more

Advance research is key

To get the most out of your costume rental experience, it’s important to do some research beforehand. Finding out what events are held in each season and which areas are photogenic will help you move smoothly on the day.
 
It is also important to check the reviews and reputation of the rental shop and choose a shop that offers the services that suit you.

Use a professional photographer

Once you have rented your special outfit, be sure to hire a professional photographer to take your photos.
 
There are many shops in Kyoto that offer professional photography services in combination with costume rental. A professional photographer will take beautiful photos of you and Kyoto’s beautiful scenery. Looking back at the photos later will bring back even more vivid memories.

Be careful with your costume

It is important to take good care of your rented costumes. Traditional kimonos and antique costumes are made from delicate materials, so be careful not to get them dirty.
 
You can also use the dressing service provided by rental shops to make your outfit look more beautiful. By leaving it to a professional, you can wear your outfit more comfortably and it will be less likely to come undone than if you were to put it on by yourself.

summary

Renting a costume in Kyoto is not just a tourist experience. You can spend a special time by experiencing new styles that combine tradition and modernity, and by enjoying unique costumes.
 
The next time you visit Kyoto, be sure to try out the ideas introduced in this article and experience a new way to enjoy costume rentals.