Most of our customers at our shop are “beginners” in Kimono. After we help you dress in Kimono, we frequently get asked about the etiquette in Kimono.  So, we are writing a series of tips on how to keep your Kimono beautiful and enjoy the whole day in a comfortable way. For this time, our theme is “posture to stand and how to walk.”

①Stand pigeon-toed and place your one foot behind the other 

When you go sightseeing in Kyoto, as you may know, the photos with Shrine gates or in front of the store are a “must”! Why don’t you pose beautifully to make your pictures amazing?? In those situations, try to stand with strengthening yourself like you’re roped from the top and make sure to stand pigeon-toed! Strengthening up your back can make your back posture look polished!  

Another tip can be just putting one of your feet behind the other. It’s very simple and easy! Even when you don’t have a bag like the picture below, crossing your fingers can make you look elegant. 

②Make your step length the size of your feet and hold your right thigh

To make you look a refined Kimono person, the way you walk is very important. First, strengthen yourself up and walk with your foot face straight so as not to mess up the bottom part of the Kimono. The ideal step length is the size of your feet. It’s good to have your bag with your left hand to make your right hand free. Why? If you are not used to walking in a Kimono, you are likely to walk in a big step like you’re wearing your normal clothes. It can open up the bottom part of your Kimono. Putting your right hand on your right thigh (on a Kimono) can prevent it. 

③Get more comfortable walks in stairs by holding your front Kimono layer up!

We have two stores, KIYOMIZU and KIYOMIZU hanare, and many of our costomers visit Kiyomizu temple. BUT as a reminder, the way to Kiyomizu temple is mostly an uphill road and you will encounter several stairs. Climbing up stairs in a Kimono, which may be an unfamiliar experience, can be a worry for you. But here’s some good news! We get you a tip on it! 

It is “To hold the front layer of your Kimono up with your right hand.” This very simple action can make your walk more comfortable and smooth. Also, making your body a bit angled when climbing up the stairs can make you go up and down very easily. Try these hacks! 

 

Having those tiny tips with you can undoubtedly make your Kimono day easier and comfortable! We hope our advice can get you a fun and exciting day out in Kyoto!