Enjoy Kyoto Even on Rainy Days! Tips for Renting a Yukata or Kimono and 5 Recommended Places to Visit

Even if you're excited to rent a yukata or kimono and explore Kyoto, many people worry during the rainy season, “What if it rains on the day of my visit?” We often receive this question at Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto during this time of year.
But don't worry! By knowing a few tips for renting a yukata or kimono on rainy days and choosing the right places to visit, you can still enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto even if it rains.
In this article, Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto introduces helpful tips for enjoying yukata and kimono rentals on rainy days, along with recommended spots that are especially beautiful and enjoyable when the weather is rainy.

First, here are some important tips to help you fully enjoy sightseeing in Kyoto while wearing a yukata or kimono, even on a rainy day.
By keeping these points in mind, you'll be able to stay comfortable and enjoy your day with a smile—even if it suddenly starts to rain while you're out exploring in your yukata or kimono.

Before the day of your reservation, some customers check the weather forecast and become concerned when rain is expected. We are often asked, “It looks like it will rain on the day of my visit—can I still rent a kimono?”
The answer is absolutely yes! At Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto, many guests enjoy renting yukata and kimono even on rainy days, so you can visit with confidence.
We always have a wide selection of yukata and kimono available, allowing you to choose a design that matches both the weather and your mood on the day of your visit. Many customers appreciate having so many options to choose from.
Rainy days can also come with some unexpected advantages! For example:
You can enjoy walking around with a traditional Japanese umbrella (wagasa), creating an even more authentic Kyoto atmosphere.
Popular sightseeing spots are often less crowded, making it easier to take beautiful photos without many people in the background.
A rainy day in Kyoto can offer a unique charm that you may not experience on a sunny day, making your kimono or yukata experience even more memorable.

Some kimono rental shops offer affordable insurance plans that you can purchase in advance to help cover cleaning costs in case your rental outfit gets dirty from rain or mud. Depending on the cost and your level of concern, it may be worth considering.
At Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto, however, we do not charge any cleaning fees for rain-related stains or dirt, so you can relax and enjoy exploring Kyoto with peace of mind, even on rainy days.

Of course, you'll still want to keep your yukata or kimono looking beautiful while you explore!
On rainy days, both yukata and kimono can be dressed with a slightly shorter hem than usual during the dressing process. Since the hem is the part most likely to get wet or dirty, our dressing staff may recommend adjusting the length depending on the amount of rain.
Wearing rain boots with a slightly shorter kimono or yukata can also create a stylish and adorable look! (^▽^)/ In fact, pairing your outfit with short boots or sandals can look fashionable even on sunny days. This way, you can enjoy strolling around Kyoto without worrying too much about the weather.

First of all, the ground becomes much more slippery on rainy days than when it is dry. On top of that, you may be walking in traditional zori sandals that you're not used to wearing.
Be especially careful on stone-paved streets, as they can become quite slippery when wet. Try to walk more slowly and carefully than usual. Stairs are another place where the hem of your kimono or yukata can easily get dirty. When going up or down stairs, gently lift the hem slightly with your fingers and move gracefully.
Be careful not to raise the hem too high, as it can look inelegant. Before heading out, take a moment to check your appearance in the mirror after getting dressed.
By keeping these tips in mind and walking at a relaxed pace, you can avoid mud splashes and naturally carry yourself with the graceful movements that make wearing a kimono or yukata even more beautiful.

Located just a 7-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station and within walking distance of the Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto Yasaka Shrine Store, Hanamikoji Street is the main street that runs through Kyoto's famous Gion district.
During the rainy season, the gentle drizzle adds a calm and elegant atmosphere to the streets, creating a special setting where you can experience the very essence of Kyoto. Lined with traditional wooden townhouses and beautiful stone-paved streets, Hanamikoji is a popular spot that truly embodies the charm of old Kyoto.
The rain-soaked stone pavement beautifully reflects the surrounding scenery, making it a perfect backdrop for photos of you strolling with an umbrella in your kimono or yukata. In the tranquil ambiance unique to the rainy season, you can enjoy a slightly different side of Kyoto—one that feels dreamy, atmospheric, and incredibly photogenic.

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Located at the southern end of Hanamikoji Street, Kennin-ji Temple is a historic Zen temple with a long and distinguished history. It is home to many valuable cultural treasures, including the National Treasure "Fujin Raijin-zu" (The Folding Screen of the Wind and Thunder Gods), and its spacious grounds offer beautiful seasonal scenery throughout the year.
During the rainy season, the rain-soaked stone pathways and vibrant green maple leaves become even more beautiful, creating a serene and atmospheric setting filled with tranquility.

The temple's main highlights are the Hatto (Dharma Hall) and the Hojo (Abbot's Quarters).
The Hatto is one of the most prestigious buildings in a Zen temple and is especially famous for its magnificent Twin Dragons Ceiling Painting (Soryu-zu). Looking up, you'll see two powerful dragons stretching across the ceiling, so lifelike that they seem ready to spring into motion.
The Hojo, on the other hand, offers a peaceful space where visitors can sit indoors and quietly admire the gardens. Its Choon-tei Garden, composed of white gravel, moss, and carefully placed stones, becomes even more enchanting when touched by the rain. The moist greenery and subdued atmosphere reveal a special beauty that can only be experienced during the rainy season.
Sitting on the tatami mats, listening to the sound of the rain, and gazing out at the garden is a truly luxurious moment that allows you to experience the spirit of Zen. It is also a wonderful place to take a relaxing break during your sightseeing.
Because much of the temple can be enjoyed indoors at a leisurely pace, Kennin-ji is a popular destination where visitors can comfortably appreciate the charm of Kyoto even on rainy days.

Just a 4-minute walk from Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto Kiyomizu Higashiyama Store.

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Just a 2-minute walk from Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto Gion Store.
Kodaiji Temple is a historic temple founded by Kita-no-Mandokoro (Nene), the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, to pray for her husband's soul.
Known for its calm, distinctly Kyoto atmosphere, Kodaiji is a popular sightseeing destination where visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery in every season. Within the temple grounds are tea houses designated as Important Cultural Properties, allowing you to take a leisurely stroll while experiencing the rich history and elegance of Kyoto.
The picturesque Nene-no-Michi pathway leading to the temple and the stone-paved Daidokoro-zaka slope are also popular photo spots where kimono outfits look especially beautiful.
The rainy season is an especially charming time to visit. The rain-soaked stone pathways and fresh green maple leaves create a serene and refined atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of Kyoto. After the rain, the greenery becomes even more vibrant, and the tranquil surroundings take on a dreamlike quality.
Kimonos paired with umbrellas look particularly elegant here, making Kodaiji an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy atmospheric Kyoto strolls and photography during the rainy season.
The temple also offers seasonal evening illuminations, as well as opportunities to experience zazen meditation and traditional tea ceremonies, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and spirit of Japanese culture.

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For sightseeing in Kyoto on a rainy day, the Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art is also highly recommended for visitors wearing kimono or yukata.
Since much of your time can be spent indoors, you can enjoy sightseeing comfortably without worrying about the weather. The museum's modern and sophisticated architecture offers a completely different atmosphere from Kyoto's traditional streetscapes, yet it pairs beautifully with kimono attire.
The large windows, elegant corridors, and rain-kissed scenery create a refined and tranquil ambiance that is uniquely charming on rainy days. Depending on the season, visitors can also enjoy a variety of special exhibitions and art displays.
In addition, the surrounding Okazaki area is home to attractions such as Heian Shrine and several stylish cafés, allowing you to explore without traveling long distances—an ideal advantage when it is raining.
Surrounded by Kyoto's calm and atmospheric mood, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll in your kimono while taking in art and architecture. The museum is also a popular photography spot, making it a perfect place to create memorable moments from your trip.

Often referred to as "Kyoto's Kitchen," Nishiki Market is one of Kyoto's most famous historic shopping streets, conveniently located near Shijo Kawaramachi.
Approximately 400 meters long, the covered arcade is home to around 130 shops offering Kyoto's unique culinary delights, including traditional Kyoto vegetables (Kyo-yasai), obanzai (Kyoto-style home cooking), and Japanese sweets.
One of Nishiki Market's greatest attractions during the rainy season is its covered arcade, which allows visitors to stroll comfortably even on rainy days. Surrounded by Kyoto's charming atmosphere, you can leisurely enjoy exploring the market and savoring seasonal flavors that are unique to Kyoto.
Currently, visitors are encouraged to enjoy takeaway foods in designated eating areas within the market. This allows everyone to experience Kyoto's food culture comfortably while preserving the pleasant atmosphere of this historic shopping street.

Just a 17-minute walk from Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto Yasaka Shrine Store.

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Although we've highlighted just five spots in this article, Kyoto is home to many more places where you can experience the beauty of each season. From historic streets and charming alleys to stunning scenery and trendy cafés, simply walking around the city can become a special experience in itself.
Whether you prefer a leisurely sightseeing trip or a casual stroll through Kyoto, why not make your visit even more memorable by adding a kimono experience? Exploring Kyoto in traditional attire offers a unique perspective and creates memories that will stay with you long after your trip.
At Kyoto Rental Kimono Okamoto, we offer a wide variety of kimono and yukata to suit every season and occasion. You can also enjoy coordinating outfits that complement Kyoto's beautiful scenery, along with photo-worthy hairstyling services. Our kimono experiences are perfect not only for sightseeing, but also for girls' trips, couples' getaways, and creating special family memories.
Another wonderful aspect of Kyoto is that each season brings a different charm and the opportunity to enjoy seasonal kimono styles that match the time of year. No matter how many times you visit, Kyoto always has something new to discover.
We sincerely hope you enjoy a truly special day in Kyoto, and our staff will do their very best to help make your time here unforgettable.
We look forward to welcoming you and helping you create wonderful memories in Kyoto.

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