SakuraForecast
Two women in kimono walking under cherry blossoms in Kyoto

Kimono rental for hanami

Dress for the season and walk under the blossoms in kimono. Here is where to rent, what you get and the best spots to go in each city.

What a kimono rental includes

Most shops follow the same simple format.

Kimono and accessories

Kimono, obi, undergarments, bag and zori sandals.

Dressing by staff

Takes around 20 to 40 minutes. Wear a thin top you can change out of.

Hair styling

Often included or a small add on. Book an early slot for the best choice.

Return the same day

Most shops close around 17:00 to 18:00. Some allow next day return for a fee.

Woman in kimono on a stone lane in Gion, Kyoto

Kimono rental in Kyoto

Kyoto is the classic place to wear kimono. Shops cluster around Gion, Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama, so you can dress and walk straight into the old streets.

Best sakura spots to walk to

  • Maruyama Park and its weeping cherry
  • Philosopher's Path along the canal
  • Arashiyama and the Togetsukyo bridge
  • Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka slopes
Couple in kimono near Senso-ji temple in Asakusa, Tokyo

Kimono rental in Tokyo

Asakusa is Tokyo's kimono district. Rent near Senso-ji, then walk to the Sumida river where the embankment is lined with cherry trees.

Best sakura spots to walk to

  • Senso-ji and Nakamise street
  • Sumida Park riverside
  • Ueno Park
  • Yanaka old town
Visitors in kimono near Osaka Castle

Kimono rental in Osaka

Osaka has fewer kimono shops than Kyoto, but the castle grounds make one of the best backdrops in Japan when the trees are out.

Best sakura spots to walk to

  • Osaka Castle Park
  • Okawa riverside
  • Expo '70 Commemorative Park
Kimono by Lake Kawaguchiko with Mt Fuji behind

Kimono rental in Kawaguchiko

Wear kimono by the lake with Mt Fuji behind you. Blossoms here open a little later than in Tokyo, usually in mid April.

Best sakura spots to walk to

  • Chureito Pagoda
  • Lake Kawaguchiko north shore
  • Oishi Park

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Kimono rental questions

Quick answers before you book.

How far ahead should I book kimono rental for sakura season?

Book at least one to two weeks ahead for full bloom weekends in Kyoto and Asakusa. Weekday mornings are easier to get at short notice.

What is usually included in a kimono rental?

Most plans include the kimono, obi belt, undergarments, bag and sandals, plus dressing by staff. Hair styling is often included or a small add on. Check the plan before booking.

Can men and children rent kimono too?

Yes. Most larger shops offer men's kimono, couple plans and children's sizes.

Is it respectful for tourists to wear kimono?

Yes. Locals generally welcome visitors in rental kimono. Walk carefully on temple grounds, avoid eating while walking and follow photo rules at shrines.

Planning around the bloom? Check the bloom forecast before you pick a date.