Hello.
I am Yusuke, a photographer from Kansai Musubu Photo, who does location photography in Kyoto ,0saka and Nara.
This time, I will write an article about "First Kimono Photo Experience: The reality of taking photos in a kimono".
Please read this if you are considering photo shoots in Kimono.
In Japan, there is a traditional garment called the kimono.
Some of you may have heard of kimonos through social media or the web.
Some of you who have been to Japan may have seen a kimono.
Some guests may be considering wearing a kimono during their vacation in Japan.
This time, we will tell you the facts to help you decide whether to wear a kimono or take photos in a kimono.
◻︎A good time to wear a kimono
July to September is summer in Japan.
The temperature is high, so it's too hot to walk around in a kimono, and we don't recommend it.
Many years ago, the temperature was cooler in the mornings and evenings, but in the past few years, it has been hot all day during the summer.
Even wearing a kimono, it's too hot to walk around, so you end up spending a lot of time in cafes.
The recommended time to wear a kimono is from October to June. Since there is a large difference between the temperature in your area and the temperature in Japan, we recommend that you check in advance if the temperature will be a problem if you plan to wear a kimono.
Cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons are popular times to wear a kimono and have your photo taken.
For Japanese people, the autumn foliage season is the time of the Shichi-Go-San ceremony, where children wear kimonos and visit shrines.
In the spring cherry blossom season, women wear a type of kimono called hakama at university graduation ceremonies.
In other words, if you want to wear a kimono during this time, we recommend that you make a reservation early as it will be the busy season for kimono rental shops.
◻︎Cities where you can wear kimono
Kimono is a traditional part of Japanese culture, but it has been declining in popularity in recent years.
Therefore, you cannot experience wearing a kimono just anywhere.
In Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, which are popular among tourists, there are stores where you can rent kimonos.
There are also many stores that offer a package that includes kimono rental and photo shoots.
Outside of these cities, in areas with traditional Japanese streetscapes, there are stores where you can experience wearing a kimono.
For example, Kawagoe, Kamakura, Kanazawa, Nara, and Kurashiki.
Please note that depending on the city you visit, you may not be able to rent a kimono.
◻︎Why it's an expensive experience
Compared to other Japanese experiences, kimono experiences tend to be more expensive.
Kimono are not only made of polyester, but also pure silk kimonos called "Shoken." Silk kimonos are expensive to purchase and maintain.
Also, it is difficult to put on a kimono by yourself.
You will have to practice putting it on many times before you are finally able to do so.
If you are having someone help you put on a kimono, a member of staff called a "Kitsukeshi" will help you.
Kitsukeshi is a qualification system.
Dressing takes about 45 minutes, and if hair styling is required, it will take an additional 45 minutes.
The required times are estimates, and some staff members may be able to finish faster.
Purchasing and maintaining a kimono is expensive.
In addition, you also need to pay for the technical fees for dressing, making a kimono experience a relatively expensive experience.
If you also take photos, the value of taking photos is added to these.
◻︎Kimono experience is tiring
As mentioned above, putting on a kimono takes time.
You also need to fasten the kimono with strings or an obi to keep it from coming undone.
In addition, "zori" sandals, which are footwear worn with kimonos, can be difficult to walk in if you are not used to them, and can even cause your feet to hurt.
If it's your first time wearing a kimono, it's best to avoid plans that involve a lot of walking.
Plan a reasonable itinerary that allows you to explore a limited area and take breaks.
If you're going far away in a kimono, consider taking a taxi.
◻︎Japanese thoughts on foreigners wearing kimonos
Most Japanese people have no objection to foreigners wearing kimonos.
My opinion is that kimonos are on the decline, so I'm happy to see foreigners wearing kimonos.
For those who are worried about what Japanese people think about wearing kimonos, please wear one with peace of mind.
We offer kimono rental and photo shoot plans in Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara.
I see a lot of foreigners wearing kimonos especially in Kyoto.
There are many kimono rental stores in Kyoto, including not only stores owned by Japanese people but also stores owned by foreigners.
I want you to enjoy the kimono experience.
I'll introduce the nationalities of the foreigners who rent kimonos and photoshoots.
We use Google services to deliver files.
Therefore, we do not receive requests from customers that are outside the scope of Google services.
Usage history:
America, Canada, France, Germany, Australia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Malaysia, etc.
◻︎Reasons for photo shoots in kimono
In our case:
1. Vacation in Japan
2. Family photo
3. Birthday
4. Honeymoon
5. Second or subsequent visit to Japan
"I saw people taking photos in kimonos and I wanted to try it myself."
6."I was interested in Japanese culture"
-Summary-
This time I wrote an article about "The reality of taking photos in a kimono."
There are some things to be careful about when taking a photoshoot in a kimono, but if you take precautions, it will be a wonderful memory of your time in Japan.
-Kansai Musubu Photo shooting plan-
At our shop, you can photoshoot in kimono.
For reservations, please use the inquiry form below.
Thank you for reading until the end.
Posted date: July 28,2024
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