Kimono Chic: 8 Best Kimono Experiences in Tokyo

Kimono are synonymous with traditional Japanese culture. People who travel to Japan want to experience wearing a kimono, but may not know how to or where to go to find kimono experiences. Lucky for you, kimono are easily accessible around Japan, especially in Tokyo. 

The kimono is the national garment of Japan, a traditional sleeved, full-length robe. Originally worn by high society members, more affordable kimono became popular among other classes and now kimono is worn by many Japanese people on special occasions and at festivals. 

While women’s kimono are made with vibrant colors and intricate designs, men’s kimono are typically solid and muted colors. Traditionally, they are worn with an obi, a wide structured belt, zori sandals (made with rice straw, wood, cloth and rubber), and tabi (split-toe) socks.

Wearing an authentic kimono in Tokyo will make your trip more memorable. Explore the best kimono experiences in Tokyo and wear kimono while touring museums and historic districts, attending tea ceremonies and more!

Inside the Tokyo National Museum, located in Ueno Park, you can book a special teahouse tour and dining experience complete with kimono. 

At Tohaku Chakan, a 280-year-old preserved Kyoto teahouse, guests are invited to savor authentic seasonal Japanese cuisine, matcha and Japanese sweets while learning about the history of the museum. After tea, your group will tour the interiors of Okyokan and admire a reproduction of master Maruyama Okyo’s fusuma paintings. 

Compliment the experience by wearing a kimono or yukata during the tour and meal. This kimono add-on allows diners to fully immerse themselves in the atmosphere for an unforgettable cultural encounter. 

As you savor each dish, dressed in traditional attire, you;ll enjoy an insightful tour of the historic teahouse, gaining a richer appreciation of Japan's culinary and architectural legacy.

The best part about the kimono add-on option is that guests can also keep wearing their chosen kimono or yukata after the dining experience to stroll around the museum or garden area, great for taking photos! Just return the kimono and accessories at the end of the day.

Find out more: Kyoto Tea Houses for Japanese Tea Ceremony, Wagashi & More

Have the Japan date of your dreams with a kimono photo shoot against the stunning backdrop of Tokyo Tower at Zojoji Temple, followed by a luxurious Edo-style feast at Tofuya Ukai.

Begin your journey at Sakra Kimono Rental, where you’ll choose from a selection of elegant kimono or yukata, complete with accessories and simple hairstyling. Once dressed, a professional photographer will capture your best moments in a photo shoot at the historic Zojoji Temple, renowned for its scenic view of Tokyo Tower, creating a perfect blend of traditional and modern Japan.

At Zojoji, you’ll also have the chance to participate in a traditional Buddhist service led by monks, make a wish at Ankokuden Hall, or engage in a unique calligraphy activity (shakyo). Your day continues with a multi-course Edo-style tofu meal at Tofuya Ukai, where each dish highlights the elegance of Japanese cuisine.

Your photos will be set against the vibrant red Tokyo Tower, creating a special memory of your trip — it’s especially perfect for honeymoons in Japan, don’t you think?

Make the most of your Asakusa day trip and step back in time with a private kimono walking tour led by an English-speaking guide. Start your morning with an authentic Japanese breakfast, featuring an onigiri set, then dive into Asakusa's rich history and culture.

Begin your exploration of Nakamise Shopping Street, the outdoor shopping street lined with traditional treats and souvenir shops leading to the ancient Senoji Temple. After an initial stroll, you can wear a kimono to complete your time in Asakusa, choose from a variety of colors,  patterns and accessories to complete your look. 

Dressed in traditional attire, stroll through Asakusa’s historic streets, capturing beautiful photos that reflect the charm of Edo, old Tokyo.

The tour concludes with a delicious Japanese lunch at Gonpachi Asakusa or a nearby izakaya, where you’ll savor classic dishes and unwind after your adventure. Discover Asakusa’s past, savor its flavors and immerse yourself in Japanese tradition on this unforgettable kimono tour.

Find out more: Best Things to Do in Asakusa

Sample local foods and join an authentic tea ceremony during this stroll through Asakusa while donning a traditional kimono, all captured by a professional photographer.

As you fall in love with the charm of Asakusa, you will take a guided tour through the district. Visiting four unique restaurants, you’ll taste fresh sushi, crispy tempura, savory yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), and Osaka-style takoyaki, the famous octopus balls. 

Between tastings, stroll along Nakamise Dori Shopping Street and visit the iconic Sensoji Temple, learning about Asakusa’s history and customs.

The experience culminates with a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, where you’ll savor the art of preparing and drinking matcha. A professional photographer will capture moments throughout the tour, creating lasting memories of your Japan journey.

If you book with two or more guests, your tour becomes a private experience for a truly intimate look at Asakusa’s rich culture. Reserve your Asakusa kimono and food tour for an opportunity to embrace the traditional side of Tokyo.

Step into a serene tea house with tatami mat flooring, where you’ll be introduced to the rich art and history of Japan’s tea ceremony. The experience begins with a demonstration by a skilled tea master, who will show you the delicate, thoughtful process of preparing matcha tea. 

As you watch, enjoy a beautifully crafted wagashi, a traditional sweet that perfectly complements the tea’s flavors.

You’ll then have the chance to make your own matcha, using authentic tools and techniques, creating a truly immersive experience. From the unique flavors to the serene atmosphere, this tea ceremony offers a taste of Japanese culture that goes beyond tea itself.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at a serene tea house in Tokyo’s Kouyama Garden. This two-hour experience, led by Rika, a tea expert with over 20 years of experience, provides insight into the history and customs of the tea ceremony.

Upon arrival, you’ll enter one of two peaceful tea rooms, where Rika will introduce you to the tea ceremony’s rich traditions. After observing her precise preparation, you’ll also have the chance to make your own matcha with her guidance, enjoying each sip alongside a delicate wagashi sweet that complements the tea.

After the ceremony, take a leisurely stroll through Kouyama Garden, known for its seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to the vibrant reds of Japanese maples in autumn. A kimono option is available for an additional fee, adding another touch of tradition to your experience.

Discover the essence of Japanese hospitality through a traditional tea ceremony experience in Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district.

Step into the refined old world of Edo with an exclusive geisha performance and kaiseki meal in Western Tokyo’s Hachioji, only 40 minutes by train from Shinjuku.

Enjoy a geisha dance performance while savoring a luxurious kaiseki multicourse meal in a private dining room. Accompanied by two glasses of sake, beer or non-alcoholic beverages, this experience showcases Japan’s cultural heritage. 

Geisha are renowned for their mastery of traditional arts and exceptional hosting skills, bringing a unique elegance to every gathering with dance, music and conversation. Watching their performance offers a glimpse into Japan’s cultural past and hospitality.

Kaiseki, Japan’s haute cuisine, is more than just food — it’s an art form. Each beautifully prepared dish is a celebration of the season, presented on carefully selected tableware.

Optional add-ons include a kimono rental or an extra photo souvenir. After the performance, you’ll receive a memorable group photo printed on a traditional hanging scroll as a keepsake.

Experience the elegance of Japanese tradition in a private tea ceremony near Tokyo Disney in Urayasu, Chiba, where you’ll wear traditional kimono and savor Japanese tea and sweets.

This is a private tea ceremony inside our tea ceremony partner’s home, where she will guide you through this immersive cultural experience. Female participants will be dressed in a stunning silk kimono, while men can choose a light cotton kimono (yukata) or a ninja outfit complete with a replica katana sword. Capture memorable photos in traditional clothing before changing back for the tea ceremony.

In this peaceful ritual, Noriko will demonstrate the art of the Japanese tea ceremony, showcasing the graceful steps passed down over centuries. You’ll enjoy expertly prepared matcha tea paired with wagashi.

This intimate experience offers a rare chance to learn about Japanese customs and the cultural significance of each element from an experienced host. A short train ride from Tokyo Disney, this unique cultural experience is an unforgettable way to deepen your understanding of kimono and tea ceremony.

Wearing a kimono in Japan is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! If you always wanted to roam the streets of Tokyo while wearing the traditional dress, there are plenty of opportunities to partake in this vital part of Japanese culture. As a visitor, it’s the perfect way to enhance your Japan trip and get closer to traditional culture. 

Looking for more unique things to do in Tokyo? Check out these must-see bucket list activities in the capital city! Join a private Japanese tea ceremony and memorable Geisha experience to top off your trip to Japan.

Like any traditional clothing, it is important to treat kimono with respect, especially if you plan to rent or wear your kimono while strolling the city.

For the most authentic experience, we recommend having a professional dresser or kimono shop drape and tie the kimono and accessories for you as kimono is very long and worn in layers.

It is recommended to not dirty your rental kimono and check with the shop or host’s requirements for return. 

Put simply, kimono are usually reserved for formal events and yukata for parties and festivals. 

Kimono, meaning “thing to wear,” comes in many different variations, colors and even fabrics.

Kimono are traditionally made from silk but come in thick cotton layers as well, making them heavier for cooler months. On the other hand, yukata are lightweight, single-layer cotton or linen kimono worn during the summer months.

Prices of kimono vary on the material and intricacy.  You may find separate kimono/yukata pieces or whole sets starting at ¥4000-¥5000. The more formal the kimono the more the price increases, some luxury kimono can even go up to ¥150,000.

You can always rent a kimono from one of the many rental shops in Tokyo or buy a vintage kimono set to save money and give a gently used kimono a new life. The perfect way to reduce, reuse and recycle in style!

Vintage kimono prices will depend on the design and quality.

Yes! Foreigners are not only allowed to wear kimono, they are often encouraged.

Rental shops exist for those who want the experience of wearing a kimono around the city or if you’re lucky during a matsuri festival.

There are even kimono dressing classes for those who want to learn the proper way to dress in their new kimono. A great place to learn how to properly dress in a kimono is Yamato Kimono inside Sunshine City in Ikebukuro.