Two of the oldest garments of Japan are the kimono and yukata
They might look the same, but their purposes and features differ. I am sure there has been a lot of confusion with when and which one to put on if the word kimono or yukata ever crossed your mind. This guide should help clear it for you.
The Kimono, elegance redefined
When people think about Japan and their traditional uniforms the first thing they think of is the kimono. It is safe to say kimonos speak of grandeur and have an underlying richness to them. Kimonos are prevalent in Japan as they are constructed from top-quality silk or other materials, which explains the variety in shades and complexity of their patterns.
Kimonos are primarily reserved to be worn at formal family functions. Such as marriage, birthday, graduation, tea parties, and so forth. They can be very pricey too, given the long processes that go into crafting a single set which explains why many people avoid purchasing them.
When one decides to wear a kimono, it is best to wear an obi, undergarments and ornaments with it as this is greatly encouraged. Wearing a kimono can be a daunting task as it can require one or more people to help put on and take off the pieces of clothing.
The Yukata, a cool summer outfit
The yukata is in a layman’s words a casual kimono and I wore one at a summer festival. Rayon or cotton fabrics are used to make these and they are much easier to put on, rather simpler as compared to a kimono.
Yukata are best suited for warm-weather occasions/events, such as fireworks and festivals. They have also gained traction at hot spring resorts. When staying at such resorts, it is common for the hotels/inns to provide their guests with yukata to wear around the hotel.
In contrast to a kimono, putting on a yukata is much easier since it is a lighter fabric, is single-layered, and simply requires a yukata, simple obi belt, and sandals. Primarily, it is single-layered, easy to wear and comfortable. There’s even no need for help putting it on.
How to Tell Them Apart
To distinguish between these two, look for the following features:
- Fabrics: High quality silk is common in kimonos while cotton and synthetic fabrics are seen in yukatas.
- Structure: Multiple layers are retained in a kimono however nothing more than a single layer is used in a yukata.
- Usage: It is customary to wear a kimono during formal events; wearing a yukata on the other hand is acceptable during casual events.
- Accessories: Kimonos are as well well known for the number of accessories they come with relative to a yukata which only comes with a sash.
Which Should You Choose?
If you are taking part in a formal ceremony then wearing a kimono is ideal. It shows courtesy and appreciation. On the other hand, a yukata is great when attending a festival or doing summer activities.
Both outfits are stunning and have their own beauty. Next time you go to Japan, try wearing one. You will love it as it is a different as well as amazing experience to wear them and partake in the Japanese culture.
It is that simple. The two may appear to be very similar, but you can now differentiate them by their most blatant features. Which one do you want to wear?
Can I rent or hire a kimono?
For those interested in combining the experience of wearing traditional Japanese clothing with cultural engagement, there are several rental services in the areas of Tokyo and Yokohama that have packages with taking part in such a ceremony.
Here are some suggestions that you can consider:
Kimono Tea Ceremony Maikoya (Tokyo & Yokohama)
Locations: Tokyo (Shinjuku) and Yokohama
Maikoya seeks to provide people with cultural experiences. Their plans include wearing a kimono and participating in a supervised Japanese tea ceremony. Women wear exquisite kimonos and watch and listen to the lessons given by professional instructors explaining the customs and history of the tea ceremony. The participants enjoy their ceremonies in a traditional tearoom.
The prices begin at ¥6,900 for one hour, and it is advisable to make an advance reservation.
More info about Tea Ceremony Tokyo Maiko
A great way to experience Japanese culture
The essence of Japanese culture can be experienced in its entirety using the combination of tea ceremony and kimono rental.
Our guides from Jewel Tours Japan always recommend making an advance booking since these kinds of experiences are on very high demand especially through the peak tourist seasons. Ask you guide for more info before your tour 🙂
