My husband and I recently rented kimono for the very first time while in Asakusa and we had a lovely time. I highly recommend to anyone wanting to experience wearing kimono to visit Kimono Rental Wargo. Their team are incredibly helpful, and the shop is located very near to Asakusa station. They're right in the heart of Asakusa, within walking distance to Senso-ji temple, so lots of sight seeing can take place as soon as you step outside. From the moment we walked through to the reception desk we were greeted very warmly by the shop staff. Although we don't speak much Japanese, they were very kind and incredibly helpful to us both. There was a large range of variety in kimono and yukata to choose from, as well as many sizes available. Kimono Rental Wargo is definitely foreigner friendly in all aspects. Being completely inexperienced with kimonos, we really appreciated the support we received from start to finish as we didn't know where to begin with sizing and what pieces went together. The shop staff made recommendations and pointed out designs and components based on our desired looks. Once I selected my attire, the entire process of getting fitted and dressed was very simple. The clothes and accessories I changed out of and decided not to take out and about with me were safely stored in its own (marked) storage container. I was given a number badge to hold on to until I returned the kimono so it was easy to locate which container was mine. I also loved all of the accessories that we're available, even down to beautiful hair pins and purses to complete my whole look. Having my hair styled after my kimono fitting was complete was especially nice! I couldn't braid my hair on my own as well as they did. They had so many choices available for how I could have had it styled on the day, be sure to take your time when thinking these over as there are some very cute styles to pick from! Once my husband and I were all dressed the shop keeps waved us goodbye and we walked around Asakusa taking lots of photos. we eventually headed back to return our kimono when we suddenly remembered all of the fun displays and bright lights all around the kimono rental shop. Regardless if the weather is nice or if it's pouring down rain, we recommend trying to get some photos here as it was a great chance to get some additional fun photographs (with less touristy crowds) wearing kimono! All in all we had a wonderful time and we would gladly do it again. The kimono rental made our entire experience in Asakusa feel more special, we were taken care of so well at Kimono Rental Wargo - please don't be shy and...
Read moreI booked a summer yukata rental, the standard set (3,300¥), in advance through the internet, which was slightly cheaper than a walk-in rate. The package includes the rental outfit, dressing by a professional, hairstyling, one hair accessory, and a small cloth bag. However, the selection of outfits and hairstyles is limited to those in the chosen set, with six hairstyles to choose from. (Everything is included at no extra cost, but if you want a more luxurious option outside your chosen set, there is an additional charge of about 550¥ per item.) If that day is crowdy or you arrive in the afternoon, there might be fewer outfit choices available.
When I visited, it was quite busy, and only five yakuta sets in smaller to medium sizes (below L) were available in the standard set. Larger sizes, long yukata and more expensive sets had more options left.
When you enter the shop, place your shoes in the plastic bag provided at the entrance and bring them with you inside.
The shop is small with no seating area, so you'll have to stand and wait for the fitting room. When I went, there were about three people ahead of me, and I waited for about 15-30 minutes. For women, the total time from entering the shop to being fully dressed is about one hour. Men’s yukata are mostly in dark colors. Since there are fewer male customers, the process is much quicker for men. So, if you're going with your partner, please be patient while waiting for her.
In the dressing room, the staff will give you a large zippered bag to store your personal belongings (and your own shoes)at no extra charge. You'll receive a ticket with your bag's number, so please keep it safe. If you lose it, the store will charge you 500¥. You will also be asked to sign an agreement stating the store is not responsible for any damage or loss of your belongings. Therefore, after getting dressed, make sure to take your passport and valuables with you. If you bring large luggage, the store may charge a storage fee.
Kimonos are meant for winter wear, but if you think you can handle the extreme heat from July to September while wearing several layers of clothing, feel free to...
Read moreIt is an understatement to say that this Kimono Rental Experience was amazing. It was more than amazing! A must- have for everyone.
I have gone to and around Asakusa before. This would also be my second time wearing a Kimono (Kyoto was where I’ve tried wearing one).
This experience though is more special. The styling process and immersing myself into the Japan tradition while walking around Kimono is more meaningful.
About the store: the location was close to Sensoji, there are also options to ride the jinrikisha (hand pulled rickshaw) if you want to visit Tokyo SkyTree and see the Kirin Building. There were lots of choices from the Kimono, Obi, bags and zori/sandals. From lace, silk, cotton - they have them all. The bags, too, come in traditional, modern, colorful/ plain, big and small sizes. It took me a while to choose the style, color and accesories (they also style your hair. If you want to have your hair hair curled , they have a premium course). The staff were welcoming, friendly and it is fascinating to hear their reactions with the choices and combinations of Kimono, Obi and bag. It made the vibe in the room lively and it felt like we were all friends dressing up for a special occasion. They wanted everything to look more stylish so they even touched up my hair and obi with accesories.
I was expecting that the time to rent the Kimono was for 3 hours. I got dressed at 1:30 and my rental was until 6:30 pm. It was more than 3 hours! Expect that there are lots of people since Sensoji is a popular spot in Tokyo. Of course, I wanted to have a photo where I am the only one in the photo, with the time given, timing and patience, I was able to have one.
This experience immersed me in the traditional Japan’s way of dressing and temple/ shrine visit. People also came up to me to take pictures and some to comment on the Kimono. One of the best part, I made friends along the way.
Thank you Japan Wonder Travel for suggesting this...
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