It was mid-autumn at the time, so it is the perfect season to wear kimono rather than yukata. Just because kimono has more layers and that will keep us warm without putting our jackets on (we were bored of them anyway!)
Before they started to do our hair, we were asked to pick the color of our kimono, Obi, and accessories. The kimono specialist then proceeds to match the look for us.
We were seated in front of the mirror and the hairstylist pulled out a “menu” for us to choose our hairstyle. I had chosen the classic bun and some ornaments to go with it. The hair styling took about 15 minutes for me and I enjoyed every moment of it because the stylist is so gentle with my hair and has a charming smile!.
Then, it was time to put on the kimono. Man, that was time-consuming, especially the obi tying part!
How to Wear a Kimono:
1. Put on the inner garment.
2. Next is the Kimono, wrapping left over the right.
3. Obi tying is complicated and truly an art, it requires a lot of skill.
The town of Inuyama is a perfect place to spend an afternoon. We went around the town sampling street food, shopping for souvenirs and appreciating every wooden wall we came across, coz, yes, I have a thing with walls… Without further ado, I'll throw back all my shoots in Inuyama to give you a feel!
More about the Kimono
Kimono are T-shaped, full length robes that covers to the ankle, hence most of my Malay friends would give Kimono rental a go during Japan trip as it covers all Aurat. Moreover, with it long, wide sleeves designs, it shows little body shape, so I would say it is decent enough for my fellow muslimah friends.
Traditionally Kimono are expensive items, usually made of silk. But nowadays, we can find cheaper versions made of polyester in the stores, but still ranges from 70-100 USD. During my last trip to Japan, I’ve bought 3 pairs of Kimono/ Yukata, so that I can wear them during the Annual Japanese Ghost Festival in Penang. I am open to rent it to my readers for RM180 per trip (doesn’t matter how long is the trip), as long as you will return the set without damage. If you have an upcoming trip to Japan and would love to rent from me, go to my Instagram, choose your set, and send me a DM!
If you happen to own a set of Kimono and would like to try wearing it on your own, then read carefully as it is a complicated process (there are no zips, no buttons!!!). However, I’ll make it easier for you by stating some basic rules on how to wear it. First, put on a white robe called Nagajuban, which is the inner white piece that ensures the kimono doesnt get dirty.
Next, a Koshi-himo (a humble sash) is tied to the waist to secure the Kimono and during this step, you can adjust the length of your Kimono by folding the excess material upwards above the Koshi-himo. Wrap the Datejime on your waist and tie it in front to further secure everything before tying the Obi. Then, you put on a decorative sash called obi. Obi tying is one of the most difficult traditional art to master in Japanese culture, so if you are not that determine to undergo that hassle, I suggest getting a pre-tied Obi bow.
Some might argue that having Kimono on during a trip that requires a lot of walking is not practical. Well, the truth is, Kimono if worn correctly, is unexpectedly surprisingly practical!
1. Since it is wrapping around your body tightly and creates a few layers, Kimono will keep you warm, especially during winter! That being said, you can ditch your ugly winter jacket and take some beautiful photos in the snow!
2. Kimono are size free so you can share one Kimono among a few girls on the same trip since it can easily adapted to allow for weight and height! This is one movie-saving travel tip!
3. The big sleeves provide ample space for your items, just use it like a normal pocket (or handbag)!
And do you know there are a lot of Kimono types, forms and patterns to choose from? Yes, you do? Now here comes the tough question: "which one should I choose?", and as always, Me being your online best friend, will help you make the correct decision.
If you would like to up your Japanese Doll look, go for the most elaborated style of kimono called the Furisode. Featuring floor-length sleeves and Obi, this type of Kimonos are only worn by unmarried women on special occasions. Other types like Tomesode and Houmongi are quite regular, with Tomesode being more formal and Houmongi more decorative. Yukata is the summer Yukata as it doesnt consist of much layers and made of thin material.
If you are interested in my Aichi itinerary but you are a visual person (a.k.a. lazy to read), check out my Vlog on my Aichi Trip! Leave a LIKEso that I know you've set foot on my page and SUBSCRIBE if you would love to see more!
Thank you for reading!
My trip to Japan was made possible by the Tourism Bureau of Aichi Prefecture. To plan your trip, I highly recommend using this site as a guide: Aichi NOW
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