Kiyomizu-dera Temple Kimono Rental Experience (Provided by Rental Kimono First, Kyoto)

A kimono rental turns a walk around Kiyomizu-dera into a more memorable Kyoto outing: you choose your pattern, get dressed at the shop, then set off through Higashiyama in traditional clothes. The main appeal is the choice, with more than 1,000 styles and options for women, men, and children.

I like the location near Kiyomizu-michi bus stop and the chance to choose a summer yukata or a same-price komon kimono from June through September. One thing to plan for: hair and makeup are not included in the stated package details, and the outfit must generally be back by 6:00 PM.

Five things to know before you book

1 / 8

2 / 8

3 / 8

4 / 8

5 / 8

6 / 8

7 / 8

8 / 8

1 / 8

• The shop is close to Kiyomizu-dera: Find it at 100 Tatsumicho, next to the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop.
• The selection is broad: More than 1,000 kimonos include komon, lace, Taisho retro, furisode, hakama, men’s styles, and children’s outfits.
• Summer gives you a choice: From June to September, yukata and same-price komon kimono can be swapped on arrival.
• Hair, makeup, and photos can add to the bill: These are optional services, not included in the base rental details.
• Plan your return before you leave: Same-day return is due by 6:00 PM. Ask staff in advance about next-day or hotel returns.

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

Start near Kiyomizu-michi, then make the day your own

This is a dressing-and-rental experience, not a guided tour. You meet at Kimonorental First, 100 Tatsumicho, Higashiyama-ku, and the shop is right beside the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop. Once dressed, you head out on your own to visit nearby sights.

That arrangement suits anyone who wants to explore at their own pace. You can pause for photos, wander the streets around the temple, or keep your sightseeing plan flexible. The shop’s location also means you do not have to travel across Kyoto in a rented outfit before reaching the area where you want to wear it.

There is no fixed route or set of stops included in the experience details. Think of the rental as a way to change how you see the neighborhood, not as transportation or a guided introduction to Kyoto’s temples. You will need to make your own choices about where to go and how long to stay.

Choosing a kimono from a large selection

The shop advertises more than 1,000 styles, with patterns updated regularly. Choices range from everyday komon kimono to Nishaku Sode, Taisho retro, lace styles, furisode, hakama, and formal montsuki for men. Children’s kimono and Shichi-Go-San rentals are also available, with children’s sizes listed for heights from 85 to 140 centimeters.

That variety matters because your outfit sets the tone for the day and the photos you take. If you already have a look in mind, you can ask about a style when booking. If not, give yourself time at the shop to compare colors and patterns rather than grabbing the first one that catches your eye.

For summer visits from June through September, the listed yukata and same-price komon options can be exchanged when you arrive. That gives you some flexibility if you have a preference after seeing the fabrics in person. The information does not specify that every style is available at the same price, so ask about any price difference before choosing an upgrade.

The rental is not just for women. Men’s kimono, hakama, and formal montsuki options are listed, as are children’s outfits. Still, package eligibility varies: the 2,500-yen single-kimono offer is for adult women only and has limited availability, while the 8,800-yen two-kimono offer is described as having no gender or age restrictions.

Getting dressed, and deciding on hair or makeup

The staff dress you at the shop, so you do not need to arrive with your own kimono accessories or prepare an outfit in advance. The process is intended to be straightforward, and the business offers service in Chinese, English, Korean, and Japanese. That language range can be useful when you are choosing a style or checking what your package includes.

Hair styling and makeup are optional add-ons, not services you can order on their own. The listed package details also say they are not included in the rental price. Some people have described receiving basic hair styling with a package, but the package information is not fully consistent on this point. Confirm the exact hair service and cost before booking, especially if the finished hairstyle is important to you.

The shop offers more elaborate hairstyles and makeup as separate add-ons. Men’s packages do not include free hair design or hair accessories; some hairstyles may be available for an added fee, so contact the shop to confirm. If you want travel photography around Kiyomizu-dera, you need to arrange the time with staff in advance. Photography is an add-on, not a standard part of the rental.

Allow time for the dressing and selection process, particularly if you are visiting with a group or want hair styling. The experience details do not give a set dressing duration, so avoid booking the latest slot if you want a relaxed outing. The final daily experience time is 3:00 PM, and the shop warns that dressing staff may be off duty if you arrive late for that slot.

What the two-person price gets you

The advertised price starts at $15.79, but the actual value depends on which package you select. The 2,500-yen single option covers one adult woman’s kimono in limited quantities and requires a reservation. The 8,800-yen option includes two kimono rentals valued at 5,500 yen each, and can suit a couple, friends, or a parent and child.

The two-person package can be good value if both people are happy with styles priced at 5,500 yen or less. If you choose a more expensive kimono, you pay the difference at the shop. Card payment is supported for that upgrade. Decide on a spending limit before you start browsing, since a large selection can make it tempting to trade up.

The base rental price does not cover personal expenses, hair, or makeup. Photography is also an add-on. Ask what your specific booking includes before you arrive, rather than assuming that a low advertised price covers every finishing touch. A little checking can spare you an awkward decision at the counter.

The rental can be worthwhile even without add-ons if your main goal is to wear a kimono while exploring the temple area. If you want a polished hairstyle or professional photos, add those costs to your budget before comparing this shop with another rental service.

Making the most of your time in Higashiyama

The kimono is due back at the shop by 6:00 PM on the same day. That gives you a clear limit for your outing, so build your sightseeing around the return time. If you want to keep the outfit overnight, ask staff in advance about next-day returns. Cross-store and hotel returns may also be available, but you need to confirm the details at the shop.

Be punctual. If you are more than an hour late without notifying the shop, the booking may be treated as forfeited with no refund. If traffic or a delayed bus puts you behind, contact the staff rather than assuming you can arrive whenever you like. Some customers have been accommodated after delays, but that is not a guarantee.

On arrival, you can upgrade your package by paying the difference. If you switch to a less expensive option, the shop may provide a kimono at or below your original package price, but it will not refund the difference. Once you have arrived and received the rental service, the experience details say no refund is available.

Take care with the clothing. A deposit may be required for late, next-day, or hotel returns, or if the rental kimono has obvious stains or damage. Damage during the rental can also lead to a charge. Pregnant people are advised not to take part, and anyone who appears intoxicated may be refused service without a refund.

Who will get the most from this rental

I would consider this experience if you want a hands-on way to dress for a Kyoto stroll, especially if you are already planning to spend time near Kiyomizu-dera. It is also a practical choice for couples, friends, and families who want coordinated photos, provided you confirm that the available package fits everyone in your party.

The broad selection is a real advantage if you enjoy choosing clothes and accessories. The language options can make that process easier, and the shop’s location helps keep the outing focused on the nearby sights. For children, check the height range and the specific package details before booking.

This may be less suitable if you want a guided cultural explanation, a fixed itinerary, or a rental that includes hair, makeup, and photography at one clear price. Those services are not standard inclusions. It also takes some planning to meet the return deadline, particularly if you hope to visit several places in one day.

Should you book Kimonorental First?

Book if you want a wide choice of kimono styles, a convenient starting point near Kiyomizu-dera, and the freedom to explore on your own. The two-person option can offer good value when both outfits stay within its included price, while summer visitors get the useful choice of yukata or same-price komon.

Before paying, check who is eligible for your chosen package, what the price includes, and whether hair, makeup, or photography will cost extra. Reserve a time that leaves room for dressing and sightseeing, and plan to return by 6:00 PM unless the shop confirms another arrangement. If those terms fit your day, this is a straightforward way to add a traditional outfit to a Kyoto walk.

FAQ

Where is Kimonorental First near Kiyomizu-dera?

The shop is at 100 Tatsumicho, Higashioji-dori Matsubara Agaru, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto. It is next to the Kiyomizu-michi Kyoto city bus stop.

Can I choose a yukata instead of a kimono?

From June through September, you can switch between a yukata and a same-price komon kimono when you arrive.

What does the 8,800-yen package include?

It includes two kimono rentals, each valued at 5,500 yen. If you choose a kimono priced above that amount, you pay the difference at the shop.

Are hair and makeup included?

The package details say hair and makeup are not included and are available as add-ons. Confirm the exact service and fee for your booking before you arrive.

What time do I need to return the kimono?

Same-day returns are due by 6:00 PM. Contact the shop in advance if you want to ask about next-day, hotel, or cross-store returns.

Can children rent a kimono?

Children’s kimono and Shichi-Go-San rentals are listed. The stated children’s size range is for heights from 85 to 140 centimeters. Package eligibility differs, so check the option you intend to book.

What happens if I arrive late?

If you are more than one hour late without prior notice, your reservation may be treated as forfeited, with no refund. The latest daily experience time is 3:00 PM, so contact the shop if you expect a delay.