Discover the charm of Fukuoka, a historic city known for its rich heritage, including Japan’s first Zen temple. Why not take your experience up a notch by exploring the city in a traditional kimono? With plenty of rental shops offering professional fitting services for both men and women, it’s easy to enjoy this timeless Japanese style while strolling through Fukuoka’s scenic streets.
The Kimono: A Symbol of Traditional Japanese Beauty
The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment with a rich history. While less common in daily life today, people still wear it for special occasions such as weddings and coming-of-age ceremonies. One of its most appealing features is its stunning colors and patterns, often inspired by seasonal flowers and traditional motifs. This delicate beauty is uniquely Japanese.
The kimono is worn by wrapping it around the body and adjusting the length with a feature called an ohashori. This allows the garment to fit various body types and be passed down through generations.
Typically, when referring to a “kimono,” it means a formal garment made from high-quality materials like silk. Underneath, a special undergarment called a juban is worn. A more casual version, the yukata, is made from materials like cotton or linen and is usually worn in summer. Yukatas also serve as nightwear or as loungewear in traditional inns.
How to Try Wearing a Kimono
Several shops offer kimono rentals at affordable prices. These shops provide everything needed, including professional dressing services.
The Hakata Machiya Folk Museum, which introduces Hakata’s history and culture, features a kimono rental shop with a wide selection of kimonos and yukatas. Optional hairstyling services are available, completing the perfect kimono look.
Recommended Shops:
Walin
2F Machiya bldg, Hakata Machiya Folk Museum 6-10 Reisen-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
Located in the traditional Hakata Machiya Folk Museum, Walin is surrounded by popular attractions like Kushida Shrine. After dressing, you can take memorable photos nearby.
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Mayu no Yakata
Inside of Sannomaru Square 2-5 Jonai, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
Situated in the park where Fukuoka Castle once stood, this shop offers kimonos in various sizes, making it a great choice for families. Stroll through the historic grounds dressed in traditional attire.
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Kofukofu
7-3-1 Reisen-machi, Hakata-ku, Fukuoka
Near Kushida Shrine, this shop specializes in antique recycled kimonos. Popular with international visitors, their website is available in multiple languages.
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Mayu no Kai
4F 3-4-8 Tenjin, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
Located near Tenjin, this shop began as a kimono dressing school. It’s close to retro Western-style landmarks like the Akarenga Cultural Center and the Former Prefectural Guest House.
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Top Photo Spots for Kimono
Fukuoka boasts several picturesque locations perfect for kimono photography.
Posture Tips for Great Photos: Stand straight with your chest slightly out and turn your body slightly sideways to highlight the kimono’s patterns. Avoid wide stances or exaggerated arm movements, which may disrupt the elegant flow of the kimono.
Easily Accessible Spots in Central Fukuoka:
Maizuru Park / Ohori Park
This park, built on the site of Fukuoka Castle, features historic stone walls, gates, and turrets, making it ideal for kimono photos. Seasonal scenery, such as cherry blossoms in spring or autumn leaves, enhances your shots.
Hakata Old Town
Just a short walk from Hakata Station, this area is home to historic temples and shrines like Kushida Shrine. Stroll along the traditional Kawabata Shopping Street in a kimono for an immersive experience. Be mindful of restrictions on photography at some temples.
Yusentei Park
A former villa for Fukuoka lords, this Japanese garden surrounds a serene pond. The reflections on the water make it a perfect backdrop for kimono photos.
Photograph provided by Fukuoka City.
Rakusuien / Sumiyoshi Shrine
Near Hakata Station and Canal City, Rakusuien is a peaceful garden created on the site of a Hakata merchant’s villa. The adjacent Sumiyoshi Shrine, with its 1,800-year history, offers spacious grounds perfect for photography.
Akarenga Cultural Center / Former Prefectural Guest House
Kimono pairs beautifully with Western-style architecture. The Akarenga Cultural Center, with its striking contrast of red brick and white granite, and the Former Prefectural Guest House, a wooden structure built over 100 years ago, provide unique backdrops for both exterior and interior photos.
Make your time in Fukuoka extra special by exploring the city in a beautiful kimono!
