What’s the Difference Between a Kimono and a Yukata?

The season of fresh greenery has arrived, making Kyoto’s temples and gardens even more beautiful. With Golden Week, this time of year also brings many tourists.
Yukata are a staple of summer in Japan, often worn to summer festivals. In Kyoto, the most famous is the Gion Festival. Held every July, it's one of Japan’s three major festivals. During the Yoiyama evenings (July 15th and 16th), Shijo Street becomes a pedestrian zone lined with food stalls, creating a festive atmosphere. Wearing a yukata to enjoy the Gion Festival adds a refreshing, traditional flair and enhances the experience. Some people also wear kimono to the festival instead.
Around the time yukata start appearing in stores, people often ask, “What’s the difference between a kimono and a yukata?”
Both are traditional Japanese garments, but they do have some key differences! When you choose the right one for the season and occasion, both can be beautiful and enjoyable to wear. ✨

Let’s explore how kimono and yukata differ!

Kimono: Suitable for both formal and casual occasions.
Yukata: Perfect for casual summer outings and festivals.

Kimono: Often made of luxurious materials like silk.
Yukata: Made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

Kimono: Can be worn year-round, with different types suited for each season.
Yukata: Primarily worn in summer (June to September).

Juban: A traditional undergarment worn beneath kimono to prevent direct contact with the skin and to protect the outer layer from sweat and dirt. Types include the full-length nagajuban and the shorter hanjuban.

Please look at the collars of the kimono and yukata.
The other collar peeking out under the kimono in the image below is the collar of the lintel.

Kimono: Worn with tabi (split-toe socks) and zori sandals.
Yukata: Typically worn barefoot with geta (wooden sandals).

The kimono originated from kosode, an under-layer garment worn by nobility during the Heian period. Originally worn beneath jūnihitoe (12-layered robes), the kosode became more widespread during the Edo period, evolving into the kimono we know today. Now, it is essential for formal events.
On the other hand, yukata originated as yukatabira, worn by aristocrats during steam baths to prevent burns. Later, it became common for post-bath loungewear or sleepwear. By the Edo period, it was embraced by the general public as a casual garment for public baths. Today, it’s loved as festive attire for summer festivals and fireworks displays.
These traditional styles have evolved over time, offering a wide range of ways to wear them today.

Add charm to your yukata with these popular items:
Kinchaku Bags: Bamboo or drawstring bags with traditional Japanese patterns are stylish and practical.
Hair Accessories: Barrettes and hairpins like kanzashi work great with yukata hairstyles.
Geta: Wooden sandals with cool-looking hanao (straps) are a must-have to complete the look.
Sensu/Uchiwa (Fans): Coordinate with your yukata’s colors and patterns for a polished look. Fans also add a distinctly Japanese touch.
Obi (Sash): Lightweight sashes like hanhaba obi or heko obi are perfect for yukata.

These small touches will make your yukata look even more dazzling!

Kyoto can be hot from June to August, but you can still enjoy wearing kimono through rental shops! During this time, natsugimono (summer kimono) are ideal — specifically designed to keep you cool.
Hitoe (Unlined Kimono): Made without lining, they are light and breathable, perfect for June and September.
Usumono (Sheer Kimono): Made from fabrics like ro or sha, these are great for peak summer in July and August. Their translucent look adds a breezy summer feel.
Pairing these with linen obi or lace-style accessories also brings out a unique summer elegance!

Thank you for reading to the end.
Though the differences between kimono and yukata may seem small, they greatly affect the look and purpose of each. I hope this helps clear up any questions you may have had!



【Author of this article】
Rental Kimono Okamoto – Gion Store
523 Washio-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto 605-0072
TEL: +81-75-950-0805
Website: Kimono Rental in Kyoto, The most popular kimono rental shop in Kyoto: Okamoto
Instagram: rentalkimonookamoto
TikTok: @rentalkimonookamoto
Facebook: Facebook/rentalkimonookamoto
X (formerly Twitter): @okamotokimono
Lit.link: lit.link/rentalkimonookamoto