Stroll around Tomioka in a hakama! 4 recommended hakama from the long-established Asaya Kimono Store

Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture , where the World Heritage Site, Tomioka Silk Mill, is located.

This town, which retains a strong retro feel, is one of the places where hakama look great.

This time, we will introduce four rental hakama from Asaya Kimono Store, a long-established local kimono shop where you can enjoy Tomioka's retro townscape and gourmet food while experiencing Japanese hakama culture, as well as recommended walking spots where you can go for a stroll in a hakama.

Tomioka , a kimono town that flourished alongside the birth of the World Heritage Site

Many young female factory girl gathered from all over the country to work at Tomioka Silk Mill , which was founded in 1872. The streets were once bustling with factory girl enjoying their days off, and many of the kimono shops that once graced the streets still remain today.

Tomioka still has a townscape that retains the atmosphere of that time, and the hakama culture is still alive and well.

If you're walking around this town in a hakama, that is sure to be a special experience.

Founded 90 years ago. Asaya Kimono Store, a long-established store near the Tomioka Silk Mill

Picture courtesy of Asaya Kimono Store

It is located near the Hime Kaido (National Route 254), which once flourished as a post town.

Located a five-minute walk from Tomioka Silk Mill is Asaya Kimono Shop, which was founded in 1935. You may feel a little unsure about the atmosphere of this long-established store, but the owner and his wife will welcome you with a smile.

This time, we will introduce 4 recommended rental hakama that are perfect for walking around town.

① Most popular! "Classical"

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

This is a retro-modern hakama set.

It's very easy to walk around and is a great wearing to visit cafes and take photos.

It is also recommended for those who are trying on hakama for the first time.

② "Historical": A faithful reproduction of the Meiji era

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

This is a work attire style with a Tasuki (sash)*.

It's also perfect for taking photos inside the silk mill.

The red sash is proof that you were a "first-class factory girl." You'll feel like you're a protagonist in history.

*Tasuki: A tasuki is a string used to hold together the sleeves of a person's clothes, making it easier to work or perform tasks.

③ Tomioka original "Otake Natsuki design"

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

A contemporary design piece by Tomioka-born artist Otake Otake.

This piece, with its vibrant colors shining through tradition, is a symbol of modern Tomioka.

This is recommended for those who want to walk around town looking more stylish than anyone else and who want to look good in photos.

④ Hakama for men

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

Not only for women, but also for men, hakama sets are available.

If you both change into hakama, your memories of the trip will become even more special.

Try to experience something out of the ordinary.

Leave it to the professionals. A perfect kimono dressing experience for walking around town

Picture courtesy of Asaya Kimono Store

Once you've decided on your favorite outfit, it's time to get dressed.

At Asaya Kimono Shop, you can have a skilled professional help you get dressed in a kimono, which only takes about 15 minutes.

You can head out into the city straight away without wasting time.

The professional dressing is tailored to each individual's body type, taking into consideration both eating and walking. This makes it easy to walk for long periods without getting tired, and also allows you to enjoy your meal.

The hakama style introduced here is easier to walk in than a regular kimono, without having to worry about the hemline, and you can move up stairs and steps just as easily as you normally would. When eating, try to be conscious of holding your sleeves down a little. It makes your movements look beautiful, as like as you can also enjoy yourself without getting your sleeves dirty.

It's also okay to come empty-handed on the day. We have all the accessories you need for your stroll, including Japanese bags, tabi socks, and sandals to match your hakama.

The charm of Tomioka that can only be experienced by walking around in a hakama

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

Once you've put on your hakama, it's time to head to the town of Tomioka!

This town, steeped in history and culture, is home to plenty of spots where you can look your best in a hakama, as well as retro cafes where you can take a break.

World Heritage Site "Tomioka Silk Mill"

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

The red brick building is the perfect backdrop for a hakama.

One of the fun things to do is to search for photo spots where your traditional Japanese clothing will look great, such as the bamboo grove and cherry blossoms on the grounds. You're sure to find a photo you'll love.

Former Tomioka Warehouse

These are huge warehouses that once housed cocoons. Today, they are home to a plaza, gallery, cafe, and more, giving the area a different feel from the silk mill. This charming spot combines a stately, historic exterior with a modern atmosphere, making it a great place to stroll around in your hakama.

Walking through the back alleys of Nakamachi Street

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

Just off the main street, you'll find an alley lined with old-fashioned buildings.

Picture courtesy of Tomioka City Tourism Association

You can take a leisurely stroll with a "yakimanju" (grilled manju) in hand, perfect for eating while walking around. You also can't miss the " Tomioka crepes," which are a fusion of French culture, introduced by the French engineers involved in the construction of the silk mill, and Gunma 's wheat culture! You can also enjoy comparing the flavors of the crepes at each certified store.

summary

Walking around Tomioka wearing your favorite hakama will transform a simple tourist trip into a special experience that makes you feel like you are part of the history of the area. Why not take a stroll around Tomioka dressed in a hakama?

Asaya Kimono Store

Address: 1058 Tomioka , Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture , 370-2316 ( Google map )

Business hours: 10:00-18:30 (Closed on Wednesdays)

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asaya_kimono/