Kyoto Kiyomizu-dera Temple | Popular Kimono Rental Experience | Kimono, Yukata, Furisode, Makeup, Outdoor Photography Service | MOCOMOCO Kimono Kiyomizu-dera No. 2 Store

Kyoto’s old lanes make a fine stage for a kimono stroll. At MOCOMOCO’s Kiyomizu-dera shop, you choose your outfit, get dressed on-site, and head out toward the temple and the stone-paved streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka.

I like the large range of styles, with more than 700 kimono and yukata sets advertised, and the free return at participating MOCOMOCO shops, which can save you a trek back across town. Hair styling is included in some packages, and you can add makeup or a photographer.

One thing to plan for: Kiyomizu-dera’s approach involves walking, and the slopes and summer heat can be tiring in formal dress. Men’s and children’s choices may also be more limited than the women’s selection, so check what your package includes before you book.

Key points to know before you go

1 / 8

• The women’s selection is the largest: The store lists about 600 women’s sets, alongside 150 men’s sets and 75 children’s outfits.
• Getting dressed is part of the visit: Allow about 20 minutes for choosing and dressing, though a busy shop can take longer.
• Photography is an add-on: A professional shoot can save you from relying on selfies. Photographer Xiao Song has been praised for pose guidance and choosing photo locations.
• Return options can shape your day: Free cross-store returns are available at participating Kyoto locations. A next-day hotel return is listed separately from the kimono rental.
• Bring small essentials: Free luggage storage is offered, but plan to carry water and anything you need on the walk, especially in hot weather.

👉 See our pick of the 25 Best Workshops And Classes In Kyoto

Picking a kimono at MOCOMOCO

This is a self-guided rental, not a temple tour. You meet at MOCOMOCO’s Kiyomizu-dera shop, choose an outfit, get help dressing, then set off at your own pace. That suits you if you want the look and photos of a kimono day without committing to a guided group schedule.

The shop advertises more than 700 kimonos and yukatas across its selections. Styles range from lace and modern fashion looks to traditional designs, antique-inspired garments, and summer yukatas. The broad choice is a real plus, especially if you have a particular look in mind. Still, the number on the rack does not mean every package has equal choice: the listed women’s selection is about 600 sets, men’s about 150, and children’s 75.

Package choice matters. The women’s kimono option includes an elaborate hairstyle, while furisode and houmongi are available at a higher starting price. Men can choose a standard kimono or a premium-brand samurai set. Children’s sizes are listed for heights from 75 to 145 centimeters. Couple packages combine a men’s outfit with a women’s option that includes hairstyling.

The listed starting prices range from $25.25 for a men’s kimono to $63.09 for women’s furisode and houmongi. A couple’s package starts at $62.45, while the professional photography package starts at $62.45. These are entry prices, not a promise that every style or extra is covered at that amount. If you want a premium garment, makeup, or photography, check the exact package details before paying.

A practical point for families and groups: one visitor found the men’s and boys’ options more limited, with upgrades becoming expensive. If matching outfits matter to you, ask what is available in your size and price tier before you arrive. It is easier to adjust expectations at the booking stage than while the rest of your party is already dressed.

Getting dressed and ready to walk

After you arrive and confirm your reservation, you choose a kimono. The process is estimated at about 10 minutes for selection and another 10 minutes for dressing. Staff help with the outfit, and packages that include hairstyling add another part to the preparation. In practice, allow some breathing room: a crowded shop can make the changeover feel rushed.

The shop offers service in Chinese, Japanese, and English. That should make the basic choices and dressing process easier, though the level of English may vary when the shop is busy. If you have a specific question about styling, sizing, accessories, or the photo schedule, ask early and clearly rather than assuming someone will find you once you are dressed.

Cosmetics and photo props are available at no extra charge, according to the package details. Makeup is also sold as a separate service, starting at $34.69. Check whether the makeup you want is included in your selected rental; complimentary cosmetics on-site do not necessarily mean a makeup application is part of every package.

The rental includes free luggage storage and kimono insurance. Storage is handy if you arrive with bags, but keep what you need for the walk with you. A family that booked photography found themselves without water and wipes after leaving their bags behind. In warm weather, a small drink and face wipes can make a long walk and photo session more comfortable.

From the shop to Kiyomizu-dera’s old lanes

Once dressed, you are free to explore Kyoto. The shop’s location puts you within reach of Kiyomizu-dera, Ninenzaka, Sannenzaka, Kodai-ji, Yasaka Shrine, and Hanamikoji. The classic outing is to stroll the old lanes and temple approaches, stopping for photos along the way.

The setting is a big part of the appeal. A kimono feels at home among the traditional streets and temple scenery, and you can move at your own pace rather than follow a guide’s timetable. The trade-off is that you are responsible for your route and timing. The rental does not include a guided walk or transport between sights.

Kiyomizu-dera is uphill from the surrounding streets, and the approach can feel strenuous in a fitted kimono, especially in hot weather. One family’s photo session was affected by heat, thirst, tired children, and a late start. For a smoother outing, consider dressing early, packing water, and not overloading your schedule with several distant stops.

MOCOMOCO offers departure slots from 8:30 a.m. through 4 p.m. The shop’s stated business hours are 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the latest return time listed as 5:30 p.m. The earlier you start, the more time you have to walk, take photos, and return without watching the clock. A late booking can still work for a short stroll, but it leaves less room for a full temple visit and an extended photo session.

Adding an outdoor photographer

If you want portraits rather than a string of arm’s-length selfies, the optional photography package is worth considering. The photographer follows you outdoors and can suggest photo spots and guide your poses. Photographer Xiao Song has been singled out for professional direction, thoughtful angle adjustments, and helpful location choices.

One couple booked a 90-minute session and found the photographer’s guidance useful. Their images were ready in less than 24 hours. That timing is one person’s experience, not a guaranteed delivery window, so confirm the expected photo delivery when you book.

The service can be especially useful if you are traveling as a couple or family and want everyone in the frame. It also removes the awkward business of asking strangers to take pictures. On the other hand, the photo schedule needs clear coordination. A family arrived dressed but did not know where to meet the photographer, losing time before the session began. Once you are ready, confirm the meeting point and start time with staff.

Photography is not automatically part of every rental. The listed photo package starts at $62.45 and says there is no limit on the number of people. That makes it worth comparing if several people want to be photographed together, but verify what the fee covers and how long the session lasts for your chosen booking.

Returning the outfit without backtracking

A useful perk is free cross-store kimono return at participating MOCOMOCO locations. Listed return shops include Kiyomizu-dera, Kiyomizu-dera No. 2, Arashiyama, Yasaka Shrine Gion, and Fushimi Inari. If your day ends far from where it began, returning at another branch can save a trip back to the starting point.

A hotel return is another option, but it is not the same as the free cross-store service. A next-day hotel return package is listed from $10.40, and it does not include the kimono experience itself. Check the return method and fee at booking, and make sure the selected option fits your day’s route.

Return slots and available choices can depend on your departure time and the length of your outing. The booking details list a 5 p.m. return option, while the shop states that the latest return time is 5:30 p.m. Confirm the time attached to your reservation rather than treating the general closing time as extra sightseeing time.

Is the price worth it?

At $25.25 for the least expensive listed option, the rental can be a modest way to add a memorable activity to a Kyoto day. Women’s rentals start at $34.69, a couple’s package at $62.45, and premium furisode and houmongi at $63.09. Styling, selected hairstyles, free storage, and insurance add value, especially if you would otherwise need to arrange these details separately.

The final cost depends on what you want. A basic rental gives you the outfit and dressing service; makeup and photography have separate prices, and premium styles may cost more. If you are comparing packages, look beyond the first price and check which hairstyle, clothing tier, and extras are actually included.

The best value is likely for someone who wants to wear a kimono while exploring the nearby temple streets, then return the outfit at a convenient branch. If the main goal is a formal photo session, include the photographer in your budget from the start. And if you are dressing a man or child, confirm the available selection before booking rather than assuming the large overall wardrobe applies equally to every size and style.

Who should book this kimono outing?

I would choose MOCOMOCO if you want a flexible, photo-friendly way to spend a few hours around Kiyomizu-dera and enjoy picking an outfit from a large range. It also makes sense for couples and families who value having a photographer, hairstyling, or a cross-store return option.

It is less suited to anyone who dislikes walking in formal clothing, has a tight schedule, or expects a guided sightseeing itinerary. The rental gives you a costume and a starting point, not a guide to Kyoto. Pick an early time, bring water and small essentials, confirm the photographer’s meeting instructions if you book that add-on, and check the return arrangement before setting out.

Book it if dressing up is part of the fun and you want time to wander Kyoto’s temple lanes at your own pace. If you are unsure, choose a basic package first and add photography or makeup only if those services matter to your day.

FAQ

How long does it take to choose and put on a kimono?

The stated estimate is about 10 minutes to choose a kimono and 10 minutes for a dresser to help you put it on. A busy shop may take longer, so allow extra time.

What languages are available at the shop?

The shop offers service in Chinese, Japanese, and English. English support may be limited when staff are busy.

What time can I start?

Departure slots are listed from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. You need to arrive at the time selected with your booking.

What time must I return the kimono?

The shop lists business hours until 6 p.m. and a latest return time of 5:30 p.m. The available return slot can depend on your departure time and booking, so follow the time confirmed for your reservation.

Is outdoor photography included?

Photography is an optional package, listed from $62.45. Check your booking details for the session length and inclusions.

Can I return the kimono at another MOCOMOCO shop?

Free cross-store returns are listed for Kiyomizu-dera, Kiyomizu-dera No. 2, Arashiyama, Yasaka Shrine Gion, and Fushimi Inari shops. Confirm the return branch when booking.

Is hotel return included with the rental?

A next-day hotel return option is listed from $10.40, and it does not include the kimono rental. Check the selected package for its fee and instructions.