Where to buy Kimono in Kyoto?

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!