How Much Is a Kimono in Japan and Where Can You Buy One?
As the world looks to Japan for the next wave of fashion inspiration, the kimono remains irreplaceable. Right now, amidst the resurgence of cultural apparel, kimonos are not just complementing traditional attire but are reinventing contemporary wardrobes. So if you’re wondering how much is a kimono in Japan. This guide is for you.
Read on to know where you can find the perfect kimonos and how much they cost.
Defining kimono
Kimono is a cherished garment from Japan's rich past, and it’s as much a part of the country's culture today as it was during the Nara period. What began as a practical outfit has evolved into a symbol of Japanese tradition and style.
Each kimono tells a story—not with its colors and patterns—but through the way it signifies the wearer’s social standing. Despite the wave of Western styles that came with the Meiji Restoration, the kimono dress didn't fade away.
Instead, it continues to inspire fashion all over the world with its distinct look and timeless design. You can wear it at celebrations and ceremonies to honor the occasion with both beauty and respect. This makes the kimono a piece of heritage that speaks to both history buffs and modern style-seekers alike.
But it's not only the kimono itself that's left a lasting impression. The accessories that accompany this traditional dress play an equally important role in its story.
Kimono accessories
Kimono accessories do much more than add style—they're key to pulling the whole look together. Take the obi belt, for example—an eye-catching accessory that secures the whole kimono. Other than that, footwear like geta and zori, along with hair ornaments such as kanzashi, have evolved in design but still hold the traditional charm.
Different types of kimono
The kimono comes in a variety of styles—each with its occasion and meaning. This richness in diversity allows the kimono to maintain its relevance and continue as a celebrated element of Japanese fashion.
1. Furisode and tomesode
Japanese ladies in furisode. (Image credit: Shutterstock)
The furisode has long, flowing sleeves and is traditionally worn by young, unmarried women—representing that they’re single. It's often seen during Coming of Age Day celebrations. On the flip side, the tomesode sets itself apart with shorter sleeves and is usually adorned with family crests, worn by married women at formal events like weddings.
2. Yukata
Ladies in yukata enjoying cherry blossoms in Sakura season (Image credit: Shutterstock)
The yukata is the kimono's lighter, more casual version, often made from cotton and worn during the summer, especially at festivals. It's accessible, comfortable, and has become a popular choice for those dipping their toes into the world of kimonos.
3. Homongi and iromuji
Homongi, which translates to "visiting wear," has more sophisticated patterns that flow over the shoulders and seams. It's suitable for both married and unmarried women at social gatherings. The iromuji is its understated counterpart, often a single color, which makes it a perfect canvas for displaying beautiful kimono accessories.
4. Shiromuku and uchikake
Bride in Shiromuku in a Japanese traditional wedding ceremony (Image credit: Shutterstock)
When you attend a wedding in Japan, you might notice the bride wearing a stunning shiromuku. This is a traditional Japanese bridal outfit that stands out for its pure white color. It’s an all-white ensemble that includes everything from the kimono to the accessories, creating a beautiful, unified look.
Then there’s the uchikake, another traditional garment that adds an extra layer of splendor to the bride's attire. Imagine a gorgeous, colorful overgarment that flows gracefully over the bride's kimono—like a work of art adding to the festive and celebratory mood of the wedding.
5. Men’s kimonos
Unlike the bright designs often seen in women's kimonos, men's kimonos tend to have more subdued colors. They are worn with hakama—it looks like a skirt but actually functions more like trousers.
When a man wears a kimono and hakama—he’s embracing a rich cultural heritage, presenting himself with dignity and a quiet sense of pride.
Simply put, a kimono is not a one-size-fits-all garment but a complex category—each style serves a specific purpose and conveys a different message.
Men in kimono (Image credit: Walin Kyoto)
How much is a kimono in Japan?
A wool kimono costs up to 40,000 yen, a silk one around 60,000 yen, and a formal kimono can be as much as 140,000 yen in Japan. However, the cost of a kimono in Japan can vary widely depending on several factors, including:
material
craftsmanship
garment's history
Here’s what you should know when buying this iconic piece of Japanese culture.
1. Material matters
When you buy a yukata, you experience the beauty and style of Japanese traditional dress without the steep price tag. But silk kimonos, especially those with hand-painted designs or made from rare silks like tsumugi or chirimen, are at the higher end of the price spectrum. Whereas cotton yukatas, on the other hand, are more affordable.
2. The detail in the design
Handcrafted kimonos that feature traditional dyeing techniques such as shibori or yuzen are prized for their beauty and the skill required to create them, which is reflected in their high price. Machine-printed patterns provide a budget-friendly alternative, though they lack the individuality of their handcrafted counterparts.
3. Vintage or modern kimonos
When buying a kimono, you’ll have to choose between two—the vintage kimonos or the fresh appeal of modern kimonos. Antique kimonos from second-hand markets or specialties are historical and aesthetic, and they come at a lower cost.
Meanwhile, contemporary kimonos blend traditional patterns with modern styles and fabrics to give a stylish middle ground for those who want to combine tradition with modern fashion.
Whether you lean towards the vintage elegance or the trendy flair of modern designs, each kimono will add a special touch to your collection.
4. Kimono accessories
When you're setting your budget for a kimono, remember the accessories too. The elegant silk obi—which is the belt for your kimono—can sometimes cost as much, if not more, than the kimono itself. Other than that, to complete your look, you'll also need other items like tabi socks and zori sandals.
So, whether your heart is set on a lavish, unique kimono or a more casual one for summer festivals, getting a handle on the pricing of both kimonos and kimono accessories is important. This way, you make a well-informed choice.
Finishing touches to your kimono
Selecting the right accessories for your kimono can transform your look from beautiful to breathtaking. Each accessory serves a purpose, either by providing a functional benefit or by enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the ensemble.
1. The obi
The obi, the wide belt wrapped around the waist, is as central to the kimono's appeal as the garment itself. The style and knot of the obi signify different things, from marital status to the formality of the occasion. When choosing an obi, consider the balance it creates with the kimono's color and pattern.
2. Kimono hair accessories
Adding kanzashi—those beautiful ornamental hairpins—to your hairstyle is a lovely way to complement your kimono. These hair accessories usually match the season and the design of your kimono to add an extra touch of grace to your look.
3. Geta and zori
Geta, wooden sandals, and zori, more formal footwear, are traditional choices that complete the look. They are selected based on the level of formality of the kimono and can range from simple wooden designs to elaborate lacquered finishes.
4. The hakama
The hakama, a wide-pleated skirt or pants worn over the kimono, adds another layer of formality and is often worn by men or by women practicing traditional arts, such as archery or tea ceremony.
5. The haori
The haori is a hip- or thigh-length jacket worn over a kimono for additional style or warmth. For men, it's often subtle in color, while women's haori is quite decorative. It's versatile enough that you can even pair it with Western clothing to bring a Japanese touch to a global wardrobe.
6. Pouches and bags
Kimonos do not have pockets, so small bags and pouches become necessary accessories. From the drawstring kinchaku to the more formal inro—these carry-ons are both practical and an opportunity to express personal style.
By thoughtfully selecting each accessory, you pay homage to the rich cultural history of the kimono and express your personal narrative through your attire. Whether adhering to traditional etiquette or infusing modern sensibilities—the accessories you choose will improve the kimono experience, making it uniquely yours.
Other kimono accessories for you
Now that you know what you can pair up with your kimono, here are some other accessories you can use to experience the beauty of a kimono:
Kimono hijabs
Hijabs with traditional Japanese wagara patterns (Image credit: We are Tomodachi)
Ideal for Muslim travelers who aim to blend modesty with local fashion, these hijabs mix traditional Japanese aesthetics and Islamic principles.
At various stores across Japan, including boutique shops and specialty markets, you can find these exquisite kimono hijabs. These hijabs incorporate Japanese kimonos' beautiful patterns and fabrics, presenting designs ranging from vibrant floral motifs to elegant, understated prints.
Whether you're attending a cultural event, exploring Tokyo, or enjoying a serene moment in a Japanese garden, a Kimono hijab is a perfect fashion accessory and a cultural harmony to carry with you.
It's a perfect souvenir—both practical and comfortable—that captures the essence of your visit to Japan.
Kimonos as modern dresses
Upcycled kimono as a dress (Image Credit: Kimono Kien)
In Japan's fashion evolution, a remarkable trend resonates deeply with our company's sustainability mission: transforming traditional kimonos into chic, modern dresses.
This sustainable practice breathes new life into these exquisite garments. Artisans and designers across Japan are reimagining the classic kimono and preserving its rich history while infusing a modern twist.
By upcycling these beautiful pieces, they're creating unique, eco-friendly fashion statements. Each dress tells its own story, featuring the vibrant colors, delicate textures, and intricate patterns that kimonos are celebrated for.
Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or a supporter of sustainable practices, these upcycled kimono dresses are a unique way to experience and bring home a piece of Japanese heritage.
For those of you who love this sustainable fashion movement, we recommend exploring Kimono Kien. Discover their range of upcycled kimono dresses and take a step towards stylish and kind fashion for our planet.
Hawaiian shirts
Imagine vibrant, floral motifs of a kimono paired with the laid-back style of an Aloha shirt—it's a match that's as unexpected as it is enchanting. These Hawaiian shirts are a perfect modern attire made from kimonos.
This fusion extends beyond style—it's a sustainable choice, giving new life to vintage fabrics. Wearing one of these shirts is like carrying a piece of Japanese heritage, repurposed with a modern twist that resonates with your adventurous spirit.
For an authentic experience of this cultural and sustainable fashion innovation, you can explore Sai Japan Vintage. Their collection represents our shared sustainability values and cultural integration's beauty.
Kimonos as umbrellas
Upcycled kimonos into umbrella (Image credit: Akizakura)
As you walk through Japan's rainy streets or shield yourself from the midday sun, imagine holding a piece of history above your head. These umbrellas are made from upcycled kimono fabrics. They display the exquisite patterns and vibrant colors that once graced traditional Japanese attire.
This initiative is about recycling and reinterpreting cultural heritage in a way that resonates with the modern world. By choosing one of these umbrellas, you make an eco-friendly choice and carry a fragment of Japanese culture.
If you appreciate the beauty of sustainability and the charm of Japanese artistry, Akizakura has something special for you. Go check out their website.
Let TokudAw make these experiences seamless for you
Every kimono has its own story—from the elegant swoosh of a furisode to the breezy charm of a yukata and even those super cool, upcycled umbrella creations.
And, we at TokudAw are all about bringing you closer to these unique experiences.
Planning a trip to Japan? Let's make it unforgettable together. Reach out to TokudAw, and let's turn your Japanese adventure into something as vibrant and memorable as a beautifully patterned kimono.
