Happy New Year everyone! This is me wearing
Furisode. We wear Furisode/Kimono for any formal and happy occasion such as New Years day. I am often asked where to buy these Japanese traditional clothes. Some of you might already know that I wear Kimono at Capsule Ryokan reception sometimes. So here are some of my suggestion.
Mimuro
There are English speaking staffs and they usually have Yukata all year around. Yukata is a summer wear, thus it is one layer, and thin. I think Yukata is the best choice for your souvenir because it is simple to wear, and doesn't take much space in your suitcase!
For more info :
http://www.mimuro.net/english/
Itoiteya (Pictures will be uploaded soon...)
This store is on Shijo street, and is quite small. But this is the shop where I bought all the other items for Kimono. Wearing Kimono is not simply a robe and a belt. You need an inner layer robe, a special pair of shoes and socks, and special buckles(optional,) and special rope and so on... I bought all those accessories at this shop.
For more info :
http://itoiteya.web.fc2.com/index.html
Chicago (Pictures will be uploaded soon...)
Buying Kimono could be very expensive, because Kimono is not a chap shopping. But if you buy Kimonos in second-hand shops, it is not expensive at all! There are many secondhand Kimono shops in Kyoto!
Chicago is one of the second-hand shops in Teramachi shopping arcade. They have many antique Kimonos!
For more info :
http://www.chicago.co.jp/store_kyt.htm
But my most recommended place to buy Kimono is actually at a
flea market. There are many flea markets held in Kyoto, and you can buy Kimonos in surprising price(from 500yen~). But please make sure that you check the condition of the Kimono you are buying. There could be stain or holes sometimes...
For more info :
See my blog post
http://color-palette-of-kyoto.blogspot.jp/2013/01/flea-market-at-toji-on-21st.html
I love these lovely patterns and vivid colors!
