Asakusa Kimono Rental Makigawa

Visiting Tokyo and eager to step into traditional Japan? The Asakusa Kimono Rental Makigawa offers an opportunity to don a kimono and wander through some of the city’s most iconic spots. Based on numerous glowing reviews, this experience is perfect for travelers looking to add a touch of cultural charm to their trip in a fun, hassle-free way.

What we love: the variety of kimono styles, professional yet quick dressing service, and its prime location near Senso-ji Temple. We also appreciate the inclusion of photo props and optional hairstyling, which help craft memorable photos.

A potential consideration is the timing—since bookings are usually made around 34 days in advance, planning ahead is recommended. This experience suits visitors who want a relaxed, authentic cultural activity without the complications of full-day tours or extensive commitments.

Key Points

• Prime Location: Just a 1-minute walk from Asakusa Station and steps from Senso-ji Temple
• Wide Kimono Choice: Traditional, furisode, lace, hakama, and kids’ styles including special 753 outfits
• Expert Service: Professional dressing, optional hairstyling, and makeup for a polished look
• Great Value: At $31.30, includes kimono, dressing, basic hairstyle, and props
• Flexible & Convenient: Book 34 days in advance, multilingual support, and easy kimono return
• Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, families, or anyone wanting a memorable cultural photo experience

An In-Depth Look at the Kimono Experience

Why Choose Makigawa Kimono Rental?

This tour offers a blend of tradition, convenience, and fun. For a modest price point—around $31.30—you receive more than just a kimono. The package includes professional dressing, a basic hairstyle, and access to traditional props, making it a comprehensive cultural experience.

The location cannot be beaten: a quick 1-minute walk from Asakusa Station puts you right at the heart of Tokyo’s historic district. The proximity to Senso-ji Temple, Nakamise street, and Kaminari-mon Gate means you can maximize your time exploring or snapping photos in authentic surroundings.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour provides kimono rental, professional dressing, basic hairstyling, and Japanese props for photos. These essentials mean you’ll look the part with minimal fuss. Extras like professional photography or customized makeup are available as upgrades if desired, perfect for those looking to capture high-quality memories.

Not included are personal expenses, additional photography services, or other costs, so travelers should plan for extras like snacks or souvenirs outside the package.

The Kimono Selection: Styles and Flairs

Makigawa offers a diverse range of kimono styles. Whether you prefer a traditional Komon or Furisode (the long-sleeved style often worn at Coming of Age Day), there’s something for every aesthetic. They also feature lace kimono for Instagram-friendly shots and hakama for a more formal look.

Kids are also catered for, with Shichi-Go-San outfits and special 753 hairstyles—a wonderful touch for families wanting to include younger members in the cultural fun.

The Dressing Process: Fast, Professional, and Comfortable

One of the highlights is how smooth and efficient the dressing process is. Reviewers have noted that the staff are friendly and skilled, helping guests put on their kimono quickly and comfortably.

The dressers are experienced, ensuring a proper fit and that the obi belt is adjusted just right. This attention to detail makes a difference, especially if you want to wear the kimono comfortably for hours or walk around for sightseeing.

Hair Styling and Accessories: Add a Touch of Elegance

The basic hairstyle included is a good start, but many opt for an upgrade to a more sophisticated style, often with cherry blossom accents or elegant hairpieces. Such styling transforms your kimono look from casual to photogenic, perfect for capturing memorable photos.

Accessories like handbags and traditional wooden geta sandals complete the look, helping you feel more immersed in the experience.

Exploring Asakusa in Kimono

Once dressed, you’ll have freedom to explore. The tour suggests strolling around Senso-ji Temple and the classic Nakamise shopping street, both bustling with local vendors selling souvenirs, snacks, and traditional crafts.

Walking in kimono adds a layer of magic—reviewers mention feeling transported back in time, especially with the historic temple as a backdrop. It’s not just sightseeing but a cultural journey that provides fantastic photo opportunities, especially with free props offered by the staff.

Authenticity and Photography

Many guests opt to upgrade to professional photos, capturing their kimono moments against Asakusa’s vibrant streets. The inclusion of free Japanese props helps create authentic, lively images—think paper umbrellas, fans, or parasols—adding more charm to your pictures.

One reviewer, Trisha_N, shared how she wore her kimono with her daughter and felt like they were “transported back in time,” highlighting how special that feeling can be.

Pricing and Value

At just over $31, this experience offers excellent value. It’s a fraction of what similar experiences cost in other parts of Japan or abroad, especially considering the quality of the dressing, styling, and location. The ability to walk around until 6 pm means you get almost a full day of culture without extra charges.

For early bookings, Makigawa even offers perks like free hairstyling or extra photos, which adds to the overall value and appeal.

Accessibility and Multilingual Support

The staff can communicate in Japanese, Chinese, and English, making the experience accessible for international visitors. The process is hassle-free, with luggage storage and easy kimono return, which is especially helpful if you’re on a busy sightseeing day.

Customer Feedback and Satisfaction

With a perfect 5-star rating from 15 reviews, guests consistently praise the professionalism, friendliness, and authenticity of the experience. One reviewer mentioned how they appreciated being able to walk around the city all day in their kimono, which speaks to the comfort and practicality of the service.

The clear organization and respectful staff create a smooth, enjoyable process, even for first-timers.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This kimono rental experience is ideal for anyone wanting to capture beautiful photos, enjoy a cultural activity, or add a touch of traditional Japan to their trip. Families with kids will love the special outfits and hairstyles, while couples can enjoy romantic strolls through historic streets. Solo travelers seeking unique photos or a memorable cultural activity will also find this a perfect fit.

It’s particularly suited for those with a flexible schedule, as bookings are typically made 34 days in advance, and the experience lasts about 2 hours, with time to explore afterward.

The Sum Up: Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

Makigawa Kimono Rental provides an accessible, affordable way to experience Japan’s kimono culture without the hassle of full-day commitments or complicated arrangements. The prime location near Senso-ji Temple means you can seamlessly blend sightseeing with cultural dressing, making the most of your time in Tokyo.

The variety of kimono styles, professional dressing, and optional hairstyling ensures you look stunning and feel comfortable. Plus, the inclusion of props and the freedom to walk around for hours make this a flexible and fun activity, especially for those wanting memorable photos in a historic setting.

If you’re looking for a meaningful, authentic Japanese experience that combines tradition and modern convenience, this tour offers excellent value and genuine experiences. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or anyone eager to wear a kimono and explore the old-world streets of Asakusa.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, bookings are typically made around 34 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and time.

How long does the kimono rental last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, but you are welcome to walk around the area and take photos for as long as you like until the end of the rental period.

What styles of kimono are available?
A variety of styles are offered, including traditional kimono, furisode, lace kimono, hakama, and special outfits for kids like Shichi-Go-San.

Can I get my hair styled more elaborately?
Yes, basic hairstyling is included, but you can upgrade to a more elegant style with accessories for an additional cost.

Is this suitable for families?
Absolutely. Kids can wear special outfits and hairstyles, making it a fun family activity.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a camera or smartphone for capturing memories. The rental includes props, but you may want to bring personal accessories or souvenirs.

This kimono rental experience from Makigawa offers an authentic, fun, and visually stunning glimpse into Japan’s traditional dress and culture—definitely worth considering for your Tokyo itinerary.