Where To Buy A Kimono In Tokyo – The 10 Best Shops

As a tourist destination, Japan is known for many things. Whether you’re a total anime fan, a certified foodie, or a history buff, Japan has something to offer for everybody! But no matter what kind of things you like, we’re sure you also know Japan for their gorgeous kimonos. These traditional clothes can be worn by both men and women. You instantly get an air of elegance as soon as you step into one!

While there are plenty of kimono rental shops you can browse throughout the city, getting your very own set would make it even more special. In fact, we think bringing home an authentic Japanese kimono would definitely be one of the highlights of your trip. It can be a bit overwhelming to shop given the sheer number of high-quality kimono shops in the city. That’s why we’ve put this list together to make it a bit easier for you!

Here are 10 awesome kimono boutiques where you can get your very own traditional Japanese dress.

How much it costs to buy a kimono in Tokyo

Because they are such intricate garments, you might think kimonos are way out of your budget. But that’s not necessarily true! Kimonos come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and conditions. There are certainly kimonos for every budget range out there. Historically speaking, kimonos used to be for the elite class only. Nowadays, modern kimono designers and manufacturers cater to everyone.

Sure, there are definitely still atelier shops that sell kimonos at exuberant prices. But nowadays, more and more budget-friendly establishments are opening all around the country. You could even pick up a fully authentic set for only ¥10,000 ($67). Yukatas, or summer versions of kimono, could go for even less. You just have to know where to look!

Things to know before buying a kimono in Tokyo

If it’s your first time buying a kimono, don’t worry. We’ll tell you everything you need to know.

1. Online Shops vs Physical Shops

When it comes to buying clothes, physical stores are definitely better. That way, you can see for yourself the true colour, texture, and fit of your garment before committing to buying it. They are some online shops that sell beautiful Kimonos but we would recommend to visit a store in Tokyo for example to check out the quality of the fabric and to make sure it suits you.

2. Fitting

Wearing a kimono requires a bit of background knowledge of Japanese aesthetics and clothing customs. There are certain kinds of rules you have to follow when wearing such an elaborate garment. It may seem a bit intimidating, but there’s nothing for you to worry about. In most kimono shops, the staff will be more than happy to assist you in wearing your garment.

Afterward, they can even teach you how to wear it step-by-step. That way, you can strut around in your kimono on your own!

3. Where can you wear kimonos?

Sure, you want to bring home a gorgeous kimono as one of your keepsakes from your travel memories. But where do you actually wear such an amazing garment? You might think that kimonos are only reserved for super formal events. On the contrary, even locals love to wear kimonos when strolling around the city and sightseeing.

We especially recommend wearing your kimono when visiting some of Japan’s more historic sites. Your photos would definitely come out even better when you’re wearing such a beautiful garment! Just imagine how good your outfit will look set against some of Japan’s most iconic temples, gates, and ancient palaces!

If you want to get the best pictures with Kimono in Japan, we highly recommend you to hire a photographer! You will be able to capture the beauty of Japanese kimono in fabulous settings. Check out our best Kimono photoshoot session in Tokyo here and hire your favorite photographer!

The 10 Best Kimono Shops in Tokyo

Discover below our list of the best Kimono stores in Tokyo that we highly recommend you to visit. You will find a wide range of prices in order to give you few options for every budget.

1. Kimono Aoki Hoten

We’re kicking this list off with a true classic. Kimono Aoki Hoten has cultivated a reputation as a beloved kimono boutique for a reason. Located in the heart of Tokyo’s Ginza district, this shop has a gorgeous selection of kimonos that will make your jaw drop. It’s well-organized based on style and color, so you can easily find whatever it is you’re looking for.

Kimono Aoki Hoten also has some pretty unique selections of kimonos with animal and natural motifs. Whether you’re going for a classic set or something a bit more out there, this shop has it all for you. You can also shop a kimono based on where you plan on wearing it. The staff will make sure to give you the perfect set — whether it’s for a fancy wedding or a simple stroll around the city!

Exact Location: Kimono Aoki Hoten

2. Tansuya

Tansuya is a popular chain around the city that offers beautiful kimonos without you having to break the bank. This place is great because it offers both brand-new and secondhand kimonos. They definitely have something for every price range! Don’t be fooled by the term “secondhand” either. Even though these kimonos are used, they have been kept in great condition by Tansuya.

Like many kimono stores, Tansuya also offers face-to-face dressing assistance. This is perfect for foreigners who don’t really know their way around a kimono. Don’t worry because the staff will do everything for you! If you’re not yet committed to buying, Tansuya also offers a rental service that you can try. Be warned, though — we’re pretty sure you won’t want to return your beautiful garment at the end of the day!

Exact Location: Tansuya

3. Takahashi Hiroko

If you’re a certified fashionista looking for a more avant-garde piece, then look no further. You can score designer kimonos right in Japan’s capital city! Takahashi Hiroko is a boutique named after the designer herself. Here, Hiroko’s incredible pieces are put on display. Her range is pretty impressive. You can find sleek, clean-cut pieces as well as kimonos with bold patterns. Her signature style mimics large calligraphy strokes in the patterns of her designs!

The space itself is pretty cool. It’s a reclaimed office-slash-factory that her team has turned into an artistic space. We recommend visiting just to look around the space alone. Of course, you also shouldn’t miss grabbing one of Hiroko’s incredible kimonos! Her fashion-forward looks will always be ahead of the times.

Exact Location: Takahashi Hiroko

4. Sakaeya

Up next we have another one of Tokyo’s beloved secondhand kimono shops. Sakaeya is located only a short walk away from the JR Harajuku Station. It’s been up and running for over 50 years, cultivating a loyal customer base that has only grown over the years! Aside from their great selection of kimonos, they also offer a bunch of extra services. We definitely recommend choosing the package that includes a cute little tea ceremony. Or if you want something a little more exciting, you can opt for their dance and photo shoot events too!

Sakaeya is also known for its quirky social media presence. They run their Facebook and Tumblr in English, so you won’t have to worry about communicating. Reservations are also needed for both rentals and purchases, so we recommend browsing through their social media beforehand. Plus, you might even get a glimpse of their adorable “CEO:” a cat named Totoro!

Exact Location: Sakaeya

5. Kimono by Nadeshiko

If you’re looking for a kimono shop with a unique sense of style, look no further. Kimono by Nadeshiko just might be what you’re searching for! This Harajuku shop located in Tokyo Plaza is everyone’s go-to for adorable feminine kimonos. They offer soft floral designs as well as contrasting geometric patterns that will definitely catch your eye. Most of all, this boutique is most well-known for their kimonos that are inspired by the 1940s and 50s!

If you want a memorable and eye-catching kimono, then we guarantee you’ll find the perfect one in this boutique. Aside from the kimonos themselves, they also have an amazing collection of premium accessories. From hair ornaments, lined wicker baskets, obi ropes, zori sandals, and more, Kimono by Nadeshiko has it all!

Exact Location: Kimono by Nadeshiko

6. Miyoshiya

Want a shopping experience and a treasure hunt all at once? Then look no further than Miyoshiya! This kimono shop is a paradise for bargain hunters and adventurous shoppers. After all, they offer amazing secondhand kimonos in various styles for you to choose from. Aside from that, they also have a nice selection of accessories to go with your set. One of the best things about Miyoshiya is they also sell kimono fabric! If you know your way around a sewing machine, then you might want to check out this shop.

The thing about Miyoshiya is the shopping experience itself is memorable. Why? That’s because the shop is actually spread out over 3 store spaces! The challenge is that you’d have to brave the packed aisles and haphazardly-hung pieces to get to a truly unique piece. Think of it as a yard-sale-type store. That makes it all the more rewarding when you actually get a great piece to take home!

Exact Location: Miyoshiya

7. Harajuku Chicago

Looking for another great secondhand shop? Harajuku Chicago is considered one of Tokyo’s gems when it comes to the world of thrift shops. When buying secondhand, there’s always a chance you won’t find the perfect fit. But with Harajuku Chicago’s selection, you can be sure to find a great piece or two! They carefully curate high-quality garments in their shops. But despite their premium collections, you won’t have to shell out hundreds of dollars just to snag a good piece. No, Harajuku Chicago prides itself on being high-quality and budget-friendly!

Harajuku Chicago is also great if you want to find more vintage textiles. The variety of their selections will definitely make you stand out when you wear your kimono. They also have plenty of 70s- and 80s-era pieces you’ll surely enjoy.

Exact Location: Harajuku Chicago

8. Y and Sons

Calling all fashionable gentlemen! Here we have a kimono shop that specializes in men’s clothing. Y and Sons is composed of a small team of designers who are creating wearable art. They believe that fashion should bring excitement to your daily life, and that principle really shows in their designs!

Y and Sons offers kimonos with sleek sharp prints. Their pieces come in a wide range of minimalist color designs, often drawing from natural themes. If you want a polished look that will definitely turn heads, then Y and Sons can give that to you, for sure! This shop is perfect for the fashion-forward men in today’s modern times.

Exact Location: Y and Sons

9. Otsuka Gofukuten

We can’t have a list talking about the best kimono shops in Tokyo without mentioning Otsuka Gofukuten. Translating to “Otsuka Kimono Merchant,” this popular kimono brand has been making waves throughout the city for years now. In fact, some say they are even partly responsible for the resurgence of the kimono as a modern-day clothing item. That’s because they have made their beautiful kimonos within reach of not-so-wealthy people!

Whether you want a simple silhouette for more classy occasions or a vibrant kimono set for fun city photoshoots, Otsuka Gofukuten has your back! Located in the trendy Shinjuku district, you’ll immediately know why this kimono shop is regarded as one of the masterminds behind this great garment’s comeback.

Exact Location: Otsuka Gofukuten

10. Furifu

And finally, we have undoubtedly one of the trendiest stores on this list: Furifu! Think traditional Japanese aesthetics meets fun millennial flair. That’s basically the principle behind Furifu! Their selections combine tradition and modernity, with fun patchwork patterns and mixing and matching of fabrics. Located in the Ikebukuro area, Furifu definitely exemplifies the fun vibrant spirit of the city. If you want unique lively designs you won’t get anywhere else, then we absolutely recommend checking out Furifu.

What’s great about this boutique is it doesn’t just sell kimonos. Furifu also offers a wide range of casual wear as well as fun accessories using their signature patterns and themes. Get ready to shop til you drop when you visit this place! We guarantee you won’t be able to resist.

Exact Location: Furifu

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We hope you enjoyed our quick crash course on where to buy kimonos in Japan! Which store suits your style the most? Tell us in the comments!

Buying a kimono can be one of the highlights of your trip. While you’ll only be in Japan for a short while, the beautiful souvenirs you get to take home will last a lifetime. We can’t think of a better memento than this beautiful traditional garment. It’s not just a souvenir, however — you’re more than welcome to put it on and strut your stuff while you’re there! Parading around in a kimono would make your Tokyo trip just that much better.

Visiting Kyoto too? Check out our selection of the best shops to buy a kimono in Kyoto!