Kyoto Higashiyama Gion Kimono & Photography Tour (Okimono-ya)

The staff was friendly, although there was only one employee at the reception desk, so they were quite busy. We had to wait a bit because several groups of customers arrived at the same time. They can communicate in English, but when we had trouble choosing, we asked for a recommendation on which accessory colors to choose, but she couldn't offer any advice and just smiled. The older woman who helped with dressing and hairstyling spoke Japanese, but she was friendly. After changing, we waited a short while for the photographer to arrive, who was Taiwanese. Everyone was great, haha, and didn't force conversation, which was nice. We're not great at posing or expressions, and even though there were instructions, we felt a bit stiff. But overall, we were satisfied. We received the photos quickly the next day, and we would consider coming back again. In the end, the photographer even helped us return the wooden sandals to the store since we walked a bit further before returning to change. The store is quite small, and there are fewer options for men, mostly just a few color combinations. There are more options for women, but not many accessory choices.

A Perfect Kimono and Hairstyling Experience for Women - Klook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Experiencing Japan’s culture through a kimono rental was one of the highlights of my trip, and booking through Klook made it an effortless and delightful experience. The added touch of hairstyling elevated the entire look, making me feel like a part of Japan’s timeless beauty. Booking Made Easy: Klook’s intuitive platform made the booking process simple and efficient. I appreciated the detailed package descriptions and the seamless payment process. The instant confirmation and mobile voucher feature added to the convenience. Kimono Selection and Fit: The kimono selection was breathtaking! There were so many elegant designs and colors, from classic patterns to vibrant, modern styles. The staff provided expert advice, ensuring I picked a kimono that complemented my complexion and preferences. Their attention to detail during the fitting process was impeccable, and they ensured the kimono was not only stunning but comfortable to wear. Professional Hairstyling: The hairstyling service was the cherry on top of this wonderful experience. The skilled stylists created intricate traditional updos with ease, incorporating beautiful accessories like floral pins and kanzashi ornaments. The final look was polished and perfectly matched the kimono I chose. I couldn’t help but admire their artistry and how they tailored the style to my face shape and hair length. Walking Around in Style: Once dressed and styled, I felt like stepping straight into a historical Japanese painting. Exploring the streets of Kyoto’s Higashiyama District or Asakusa in Tokyo while dressed in a kimono was surreal. The outfit drew warm smiles and kind words from locals, making the experience even more memorable. Exceptional Service and Comfort: The shop itself was spotless and well-organized, with private dressing areas and lockers for belongings. The staff were courteous, efficient, and incredibly patient, even during busy times. Despite wearing multiple layers, the kimono was surprisingly comfortable, allowing me to walk and pose with ease. Value for Money: This package was worth every penny, offering not only a stunning kimono but also a full hairstyling service that made me feel like royalty. It was a perfect blend of cultural immersion and personal pampering. Tips for a Memorable Experience: Choose a kimono that reflects the season—florals for spring, rich hues for autumn, etc. Arrive with clean, dry hair to save time for hairstyling. Allocate time to wander nearby attractions—it’s a great way to showcase your look! Wear comfortable footwear, as you’ll want to explore in your outfit. Final Thoughts: This women’s kimono rental experience with hairstyling was everything I hoped for and more. It’s an ideal way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture while creating unforgettable memories and photos. A big thank you to Klook for making this such a seamless and magical experience. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to embrace the elegance of Japan!

An Unforgettable Kimono Rental and Photography Experience in Japan - Klook Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My experience with the Kimono Rental and Photography session booked through Klook was nothing short of magical. From start to finish, every detail was carefully curated to ensure a seamless, enjoyable, and culturally immersive journey. Booking Process: The booking process on Klook was incredibly straightforward and hassle-free. The detailed descriptions, availability calendar, and transparent pricing made it easy to plan my session in advance. The convenience of mobile vouchers was a bonus! Kimono Selection and Dressing: Upon arrival, I was greeted warmly by the staff. The kimono selection was outstanding, offering a wide range of designs, colors, and styles to suit every taste and season. The staff were professional and patient, helping me choose the perfect outfit while sharing insightful tips about the cultural significance of each piece. The dressing process was smooth, and the intricate obi tying was an art in itself. I felt transformed into a piece of living Japanese tradition. Photography Session: The photography session was a highlight of the experience. The photographer was not only skilled but also friendly and communicative, putting me at ease immediately. They guided me to some of the most picturesque spots in the area, including traditional streets, serene temples, and blooming gardens (if you're lucky enough to visit during sakura season!). The photos were stunning, capturing the essence of Japan’s timeless beauty and the elegance of the kimono. Cultural Immersion: What made this experience truly special was the opportunity to walk around in the kimono. Whether strolling through historic districts like Kyoto’s Gion or posing near Tokyo’s Asakusa temple, I felt an authentic connection to Japan’s rich heritage. Locals and tourists alike smiled warmly, further enriching the experience. Service and Facilities: The rental shop was clean, well-organized, and equipped with all amenities, including hair styling services and accessories to complete the look. Lockers were available for storing personal belongings, making it convenient to explore worry-free. Value for Money: For the quality of service, attention to detail, and the sheer joy of wearing a kimono while capturing unforgettable memories, this experience was worth every yen. The photos are treasures I’ll cherish forever. Tips for Travelers: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Wear a thin undershirt and leggings for comfort under the kimono. Opt for hair styling—it truly completes the look! Allow extra time for exploring in your kimono—it’s a fantastic way to slow down and soak in Japan’s charm. Final Thoughts: If you're visiting Japan, this is a must-do experience that beautifully blends culture, fashion, and photography. Thanks to Klook, I had an unforgettable day that deepened my appreciation for Japanese traditions. Highly recommended for solo travelers, couples, and families alike!

genuinely my FAVORITE part of our entire Japan trip!! everyone was super knowledgeable and friendly especially to my son :) my entire family had a great time despite my brothers being a bit hesitant 😭 it was so much fun and they had a lot of beautiful choices! would definitely recommend !!

✨ A Truly Unforgettable Kimono Experience ✨ We accidentally went to the wrong branch at first, but the staff quickly transferred our Klook reservation with no issues, and from there everything was pure magic. Wearing a kimono has been a dream of mine since childhood, and Okimonoya made it come true. A special shout-out to Anita and all the lovely ladies who helped us—they were so kind, patient, and attentive while helping us choose the perfect kimono, accessories, and hairstyle. Watching the transformation in the mirror felt like a fairytale. The photoshoot was amazing, with a patient photographer who guided us through each pose and took so many beautiful shots. I also loved that we could keep the kimono all day (and even return it the next morning), which made exploring Kyoto’s temples and streets truly unforgettable.

The photographer was very patient, even with our two energetic kids. Highly recommended! They provided guidance on posing, and we received all the photo files.

We offer children's kimonos in both standard and lace styles.

The staff could speak both english and mandarin, were super helpful and upbeat, even when they had a full house. They were so quick with doing my hairstyle I wa shocked — definitely highly skillef professionals.

loved the experience. i booked both kimono rental and the photoshoot. the rental and kimono prep was smooth and easy, i was quickly transformed with my kimono and hair. the photography session was also very fun and memorable: the photographer was very nice and mindful of me, she asked which vibe i wanted and helped me with posing and getting the right lighting with optimal results. would recommend 100%

My friend and I were completely impressed with Okimono’s team professionalism and customer service. The team is extremely helpful and friendly ❤️ we felt so welcomed! Highly recommended for anyone who is looking for a Kimono experience.