Strolling Through the Charming Town of Izushi in Rental Kimono

Izushi, known as the "Little Kyoto" of Tajima (Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture), is a historic castle town rich in culture. As you walk through the streets, you can feel as if you've traveled back in time, with sights such as Japan's oldest clock tower, "Shinkorou," and the "Yuzuyama Inari Shrine," where you can climb a mountain lined with red torii gates to get a panoramic view of the town.

One experience you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Izushi is the "Rental Kimono Experience." With professional dressing services included, you won’t have to worry about your kimono coming undone. Why not find your favorite outfit and set off to explore the streets of Izushi?

Kimono Experience at "Izushi Kimono Rental Okae-dokoro Mu"

Izushi was once a thriving center for silk weaving, particularly known for "Tajima Chirimen." Inside the "Tango Chirimen History Museum," you’ll find "Izushi Kimono Rental Okae-dokoro Mu."

This facility offers around 180 kimonos to choose from, and a professional will dress you in your selected kimono. The range of kimono styles is impressive, and what’s even more surprising is the affordable pricing—just 3,000 yen for 3 hours! This includes selecting your kimono and dressing (about 30 minutes) and then enjoying about 2.5 hours of exploration. The local community’s desire to preserve the historic streets of Izushi and create a town where kimonos fit perfectly is the lovely reason behind this great pricing.

Let’s overview the kimono rental process:

1. Rental reservation

2. Choosing your kimono in-store (about 15 minutes)

3. Dressing (about 15 minutes)

4. Exploring the town of Izushi (remaining 2.5 hours)

5. Return

STEP 1: Choose a Kimono and obi

Once you complete your check-in, it’s time to choose your kimono!

"When selecting a kimono, details like seasonal patterns and color coordination with the obi matter, but the most important thing is to choose something that makes you feel good and that you want to wear," says a staff member.

For the best fit, the hem should just cover your ankles (on rainy days, showing your ankles might be advisable, depending on your outfit). There’s a wide range of kimonos available, including options for men and children, making it a great experience for families

After choosing your kimono, find a matching obi! Some obis have different colors on each side, allowing you to showcase the inner color depending on how you tie it, so be sure to check that out as well.

While it’s good to have a common color with your kimono, don’t overthink it; you can create harmony using an obi-dome as well. Enjoy creating your unique combination!

STEP 2: Getting Dressed in the Kimono

After selecting your kimono, it’s time for dressing. Professional kimono dressers will carefully put it on for you, ensuring that even first-timers can achieve a beautiful look without worrying about it coming undone. Typically, dressing can feel constrictive, but here they aim for a "comfortable and pain-free" experience, allowing you to enjoy your exploration of Izushi afterward!

STEP 3: Selecting Accessories for a Complete Look

You can choose from various hair ornaments (which you typically put on yourself), colorful zori sandals, boots (recommended for rainy or cold days!), bags, and pouches that pair well with kimonos, allowing for total coordination. You can also leave your belongings here for a lighter, more enjoyable stroll.

When selecting zori, choose ones that are slightly larger, so your feet don't hang over too much. If zori are difficult to walk in or it's raining, boots are also an option. You might think it's an unusual combination, but pairing boots with a kimono can work surprisingly well.

There are sizes available for both women and men.

Venture Out to Enjoy Sightseeing and Photography

Now that you’re dressed in kimono, it’s time to head out into the town of Izushi! The retro streets of Izushi are filled with picturesque spots perfect for showing off your kimono. Here are some recommendations:

● Shinkoro

The iconic clock tower of Izushi. Built in 1871, it is the oldest clock tower in Japan and continues to keep time.

●Izushi Eirakukan

The oldest theater in the Kinki region, opened in 1901. It was restored in 2008, and remnants of posters from its opening still adorn the ceiling, creating a retro atmosphere. The ability to view the revolving stage, trapdoors, and the actors' waiting rooms is another highlight!

● Yuzuyama Inari Shrine’s Red Torii Gates & Izushi Castle Ruins

The rows of torii gates at Yuzuyama Inari Shrine, which consist of over 150 steps, are breathtaking. Unlike the crowded Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, you can enjoy a leisurely photo session here without many tourists around.

Dressing in kimono and taking photos among the historic atmosphere of Izushi Castle’s main keep and stone walls is sure to result in stunning pictures.

There are also many other ways to enjoy Izushi, such as savoring delicious Izushi soba while dressed in kimono or exploring museums. Why not have fun strolling in your kimono?

Reservations Are Made Online

To rent a kimono in Izushi, prior reservations are essential. Be sure to make your reservation at least three days in advance. (For inquiries less than three days ahead, please call 0796-52-4806.) Morning reservations are recommended, as most attractions are relatively quiet during that time!

Reservation site here： https://www.izushi.co.jp/en/rental-kimono/

Conclusion

At "Izushi Kimono Rental Okae-dokoro Mu," you can enjoy a dressing experience and a stroll through the town at a reasonable price. Explore the historic streets of Izushi while dressed in a kimono and immerse yourself in a timeless experience!

Izushi Kimono Rental Okigae-dokoro Mu

Address: 87-3 Uchimae-cho, Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, 668-0214 ( Google map )

Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Closed: None

Website: https://www.izushi.co.jp/en/rental-kimono/