Quick Overview
- Starting from ¥5,000 for a full kimono rental package (includes dressing & hair styling)
- Professional dressing takes 30–60 minutes
- Return by 5:30 PM same day (most shops)
- Perfect for: Instagram-worthy photos, cultural immersion, date activity, special occasions
- Best areas to explore in kimono: Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park, Sankeien Garden, Chinatown
Introduction: Why Rent a Kimono in Yokohama?
Yokohama offers a unique backdrop for kimono dressing that combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern port city atmosphere. Unlike Kyoto's temple-heavy streets or Asakusa's crowded lanes, Yokohama provides spacious promenades, waterfront views, and a relaxed pace that makes kimono walking genuinely enjoyable.
Why Yokohama over Kyoto or Tokyo:
- Fewer crowds — You won't be jostling through packed streets
- Waterfront backdrops — Minato Mirai and Yamashita Park offer stunning photo opportunities
- More affordable — Rental prices are typically 20–30% lower than Kyoto
- Easier walking — Wide pavements and flat terrain throughout the tourist areas
- Diverse scenery — From historic buildings to modern architecture to Japanese gardens
Renting a kimono transforms your sightseeing experience. You'll find that shopkeepers, restaurant staff, and locals treat you with extra warmth — and the photos you take will be your most memorable from the trip.
1. VASARA Kimono & Yukata Rental — Yokohama's Premier Shop
Best for: First-timers, quality kimono, English-friendly service
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Central Yokohama, near Kannai Station |
| Price | From ¥5,000 (kimono set), from ¥3,500 (yukata set) |
| Included | Kimono/yukata, obi (belt), undergarments, sandals, bag, dressing, hair styling |
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (return by 5:30 PM) |
| Best For | First-timers, quality-conscious travelers |
VASARA is one of Japan's largest kimono rental chains, and their Yokohama location delivers the same high standards as their famous Kyoto and Asakusa shops — with the added benefit of Yokohama's beautiful settings.
The Experience:
When you arrive at VASARA Yokohama, you'll be greeted by professional stylists who guide you through the selection process. The shop carries hundreds of kimono and yukata in every color and pattern imaginable — from classic floral motifs to bold modern designs. Your appointment includes:
- Kimono selection (15–20 minutes) — Browse racks of kimono organized by color. The staff will help you choose based on your preferences and the season
- Dressing (20–30 minutes) — A professional dresser wraps you in layers with practiced efficiency. The process involves multiple steps — undergarment, nagajuban (inner robe), kimono, obi (belt), obijime (cord), and accessories
- Hair styling (10–15 minutes) — Simple but elegant hair arrangements to complement your kimono
- Accessory selection (5 minutes) — Choose your sandals (zori), bag, and any hair ornaments
- Out the door — You're ready to explore Yokohama in style
Book VASARA Kimono Rental Yokohama on Klook to secure your preferred time slot → Reserve your kimono experience
What to Expect:
- The entire process takes about 60 minutes from arrival to departure
- You can leave your belongings at the shop (locked storage provided)
- The kimono is comfortable for walking — the stylists ensure the obi is tied securely but not too tightly
- Return by 5:30 PM for undressing (late fees apply after 6:00 PM)
- Next-day return is sometimes available for an additional fee
Pro Tips:
- Book the earliest slot (9:00 AM) for the best selection and the most time to explore
- Choose a kimono with short or pushed-up sleeves if visiting in summer — yukata (cotton kimono) is the standard summer option
- Wear a thin camisole and shorts under your clothes — you'll be undressed and re-dressed, and fewer layers under your kimono means a smoother result
- Bring your camera — VASARA staff are happy to take photos of you before you leave the shop
2. Where to Go in Kimono — Best Photo Spots in Yokohama
Minato Mirai Waterfront
The broad promenades of Minato Mirai are perfect for kimono walking. The contrast between traditional attire and modern architecture creates striking photos.
Top Spots:
- Cosmo World Ferris Wheel — The colorful amusement park provides a fun, vibrant backdrop
- Red Brick Warehouse — The historic brick buildings offer a rustic European feel that contrasts beautifully with kimono
- Queen's Square Plaza — The open square with fountains and modern glass towers Walking time from VASARA: 15 minutes Best time: Late afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) for golden hour light on the bay
Yamashita Park
Yokohama's premier waterfront park stretches along the harbor, offering wide paths, rose gardens, and iconic views of the bay. Top Spots:
- The rose garden (seasonal, May–October) — Colorful blooms frame kimono beautifully
- The Hikawa Maru — The permanently docked ocean liner makes a nostalgic backdrop
- The waterfront railings — Classic harbor views with ships and bridges Walking time from VASARA: 10 minutes Best time: Morning (9:00–11:00 AM) for soft light and fewer people
Sankeien Garden
A traditional Japanese garden in southern Yokohama, Sankeien features historic buildings relocated from across Japan, ponds, and seasonal flowers. Top Spots:
- Three-story pagoda — A 15th-century pagoda from Kyoto, perfectly framed by cherry trees in spring
- Choshukaku Villa — A 17th-century samurai residence with tatami rooms open to visitors
- The pond with teahouse — Classic Japanese garden scenery Access: 25-minute bus ride from Kannai Station or taxi (¥2,000–2,500) Admission: ¥700 (adults) Best time: Early morning just after opening (9:00 AM) for solitude
Yokohama Chinatown
Yokohama's vibrant Chinatown offers colorful, energetic backdrops with its ornate gates, red lanterns, and bustling alleyways. Top Spots:
- Zenrinmon Gate (Good Luck Gate) — The most photogenic entrance to Chinatown
- Kanteibyo Temple — An elaborate Chinese temple in the heart of the district
- Colorful alleyways — Lantern-lined streets with food stalls and shops Walking time from VASARA: 12 minutes Best time: Late morning (10:00–11:30 AM) before the lunch crowds
3. What to Know Before You Go
Seasonal Considerations
| Season | Recommended Wear | Duration Comfort | Best Photo Spots |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Kimono (medium weight) | All day comfortable | Sankeien Garden (cherry blossoms), Yamashita Park |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Yukata (light cotton) | Comfortable, but avoid midday heat | Minato Mirai waterfront (evening), Chinatown (air-conditioned) |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Kimono (medium weight) | All day comfortable | Sankeien Garden (fall foliage), Red Brick Warehouse |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Kimono + shawl provided | 3–4 hours max (cold!) | Indoors: Cup Noodles Museum, outdoor: Yamashita Park (clear skies) |
Kimono vs. Yukata — What's the Difference?
Kimono — The traditional full-length garment worn in cooler months. Made of silk or synthetic silk, with multiple layers, a formal obi, and zori sandals. More elegant, more structured, and warmer.
Yukata — A lightweight cotton robe traditionally worn in summer. Single layer, simpler tying, and worn with geta (wooden sandals). More casual, cooler, and easier to move in. For most first-time visitors, yukata in summer and kimono in other seasons is the right choice.
Dress Code & Etiquette
- Walk with small steps — The kimono's narrow hem restricts your stride. This naturally creates the graceful, measured walk associated with kimono
- Sit with care — When sitting on chairs, sit upright. On tatami, use the proper kneeling position (seiza) or a modified side-sit
- Food and drink — Be careful with dark-colored drinks near light kimono. Most rental shops have stain removal options if accidents happen
- Restrooms — Kimono makes using restrooms a challenge. The staff will show you how to manage before you leave. Yukata is much easier
- Photography — Most places welcome kimono-clad visitors. Some temples and gardens offer discounted entry for those wearing kimono
What to Bring
- Thin inner layers (for under the kimono)
- Comfortable tabi socks (some shops include them, but bring your own if you have them)
- A small bag for your phone and wallet (the rental bag is small)
- Lip balm — Your lips can dry out during the dressing process
- A light jacket if visiting in winter
4. Sample Kimono Itinerary
Classic Yokohama Kimono Day
9:00 AM — Arrive at VASARA Yokohama → Kimono selection & dressing
10:00 AM — Depart in full kimono
10:15 AM — Yamashita Park stroll & photos
11:00 AM — Walk to Chinatown → Photos at Zenrinmon Gate → Dim sum lunch at a Chinatown restaurant
1:00 PM — Walk to Minato Mirai → Photos at Red Brick Warehouse → Photos at Cosmo World
2:30 PM — Tea break at a cafe near Queen's Square
3:00 PM — Optional: Cup Noodles Museum or Sankeien Garden
4:00 PM — Return to VASARA for undressing
5:00 PM — Free to explore in regular clothesKimono Rental Comparison
| Shop | Price (Kimono) | Price (Yukata) | Dressing Time | English Support | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VASARA Yokohama | ¥5,000 | ¥3,500 | 60 min | ✅ Excellent | Kannai |
| VASARA Kamakura | ¥5,000 | ¥3,500 | 60 min | ✅ Excellent | Kamakura Station |
Book VASARA Kimono Rental in Yokohama on Klook for guaranteed availability and exclusive online rates → Secure your kimono experience
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to make a reservation? A: Yes — reservations are essential, especially during cherry blossom season (March–April), Golden Week (late April–early May), and autumn foliage season (November). Walk-ins are sometimes accepted but may face long waits or limited selection.
Q: Can I wear kimono if I have tattoos? A: Yes — kimono rental shops generally do not have tattoo restrictions. The kimono covers most of your body, so tattoos are invisible during wear.
Q: Is the kimono heavy? A: A full kimono weighs about 3–5 kg (6–11 lbs). It's noticeable but not uncomfortable. Most first-timers adjust within 30 minutes. Yukata is significantly lighter.
Q: Can I eat and drink in kimono? A: Yes — just be careful with dark drinks (coffee, red wine) near light-colored kimono. Most rental shops provide napkins and have stain removal services.
Q: What if it rains? A: Most shops provide plastic rain covers for your kimono. Yukata is less suitable for rain. Check the weather forecast before booking.
Q: Can I keep the kimono overnight? A: Some shops offer next-day return for an additional fee (typically ¥1,000–2,000). VASARA offers this service — ask when you book.
Q: Is there a weight/height limit? A: Most shops accommodate a wide range of sizes, from petite to plus-size. VASARA carries sizes up to XXXL. It's best to mention your size when booking.
Last Updated: June 4, 2026 Written by: Anaba OffJapan Editorial Team
Renting a kimono in Yokohama is one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Kanagawa. Unlike Kyoto, where kimono-clad visitors are everywhere, Yokohama offers a more personal experience — you'll stand out beautifully against the waterfront scenery, and the city's wide promenades make walking in kimono genuinely enjoyable.
Book through Klook for the best rates and guaranteed availability, and prepare for a day of incredible photos and cultural immersion.
Anaba OffJapan — Avoid the Crowds, Go Deeper into Japan.
Conclusion
yokohama kimono rental offers a unique window into the diverse attractions of Kanagawa Prefecture. Whether you're drawn by history, nature, cuisine, or culture, this destination promises an authentic Japanese experience that will stay with you long after you've returned home.
