Now that August has arrived, summer in Kyoto is in full swing! For sightseeing, festivals, and special outings during this season, nothing is more perfect than a yukata or a summer kimono. At Tekuteku Kyoto, you can rent both, but we often hear questions like, “What’s the difference between yukata and summer kimono?” or “I don’t know which one I should wear…”
That’s why in this article, we’ll clearly explain the differences, unique charms, and how to choose between yukata and summer kimono depending on the occasion.
Whichever you choose, your summer memories in Kyoto are sure to become even more special! ✨
What’s the difference between a yukata and a summer kimono?
There are seven main differences between a yukata and a summer kimono!
We’ve put together a table to make the differences easy to understand.
| Difference | Yukata | Summer Kimono |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Cotton, polyester, cooling fabrics | Pure silk, polyester, etc. |
| How to wear | Worn over underwear, without juban | Worn over a nagajuban (under-kimono) |
| Obi (Belt) | Han-haba obi, heko obi, casual styles | Otaiko obi, more formal styles |
| Footwear | Geta (wooden clogs) | Zori (formal sandals) |
| Overall Look | Casual | Semi-formal to formal |
| Occasions | Festivals, fireworks, casual outings | Tea ceremonies, formal dining, special events |
| Difficulty | Easy | More advanced |
Looking at it this way, the differences are quite clear ◎
Yukata is a casual style that even beginners can wear easily, while summer kimono requires more advanced dressing skills and creates a semi-formal to formal impression.
Which is cooler to wear, a yukata or a summer kimono?
There isn’t much difference in coolness between a yukata and a summer kimono! Although summer kimono may look warmer, silk summer kimono can actually feel cooler than a yukata. ◎
“What is ‘Shoken’ (pure silk)?”
Fabric made of 100% silk. Among kimono fabrics, it is considered the finest. It has a glossy sheen, and keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter.
At Tekuteku Kyoto, we offer a wide selection of pure silk kimonos and summer kimonos.
Be sure to experience their comfortable wear for yourself ✨
What’s the difference between a kimono and a summer kimono?
It’s easy to tell a yukata apart from a regular kimono at first glance, but summer kimono can be harder to distinguish.
A summer kimono is “an unlined kimono that features breathability and a slightly sheer fabric”!
Kimonos come in two types: fully lined (“awase”) and unlined (“hitoe”).
Summer kimono is a type of unlined “hitoe,” made with even thinner fabric to create a sheer and airy feel.
Even if it looks like a regular kimono, the lightweight feel and coolness are on a whole different level ✨
Yukata or Summer Kimono – which one is perfect for you?
To help answer the question, “Should I choose a yukata or a summer kimono?”, we’ve summarized some recommended points and suitable occasions!
Who Should Choose a Yukata
- Those who want to enjoy casual events like festivals or fireworks displays
- Those who want to emphasize a cool and summery look
- Those who want a style that allows for easy movement
- Those who like bold patterns and a vibrant style
Who Should Choose a Summer Kimono
- Those who want to visit places with a calm atmosphere, like afternoon tea spots or traditional Japanese-style venues
- Those who want to emphasize elegance and a mature look
- Those who want both the formality of a kimono and a cool, comfortable feel
- Those who like delicate patterns and a subtle, glossy finish
Tekuteku Kyoto’s Yukata Plan and Summer Kimono Plan
Introducing Tekuteku Kyoto’s Yukata Plan and Summer Kimono Plan!
We’ll also introduce the Couple Plan, perfect for couples visiting together ♡
Yukata Plan (From ¥4,400, tax included)
When it comes to classic summer attire, it has to be the yukata!
Worn without a juban (under-kimono), it’s easy to move in and comfortable for long periods◎
We offer a lineup that lets you find the perfect look, from retro styles with bold or innovative designs to simple styles with a wide range of colors✨
With our next-day return service, you can enjoy evening events like fireworks festivals or summer matsuri without any hassle♡
We also offer a yukata bring-your-own service!
For those who already have a yukata but are unsure if they can dress themselves, we offer a bring-your-own yukata service!
Our professional staff will help you dress it, ensuring it stays perfectly in place even after walking for long periods◎
▼For more details, please see below
| Price | ¥3,300 (tax included) — Hair styling an additional ¥1,100 |
|---|---|
| What to Bring | Yukata, obi, bag, geta, underwear, 3 waist cords, 1 date-jime (sash), 4–5 face towels for padding, and a korin belt |
| How to Reserve | Instagram DM or the website reservation form (please write “Bring-Your-Own Yukata” in the survey section) |
Summer Kimono Plan (From ¥6,600, tax included)
Summer kimono exudes elegance while keeping you cool.
Pure silk summer kimono is even cooler than a yukata, offering a comfortable wear that feels better than it looks✨
Perfect for visiting calm and stylish spots like afternoon tea venues or traditional Japanese-style cafés.
We offer refined pastel colors as well as vibrant, vivid shades◎
Couple Plan (From ¥9,400, tax included)
For couples, we recommend the “Couple Plan” with a women’s kimono (or yukata) × men’s kimono (or yukata)!
It’s more affordable than renting each separately✨
Seeing your partner in a different outfit might bring a fresh spark of excitement♡
Please note that the Formal Plan and Furisode Plan are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yukata and Summer Kimono Rentals
Finally, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about yukata and summer kimono rentals!
If you’re considering renting, be sure to check them out.
Q1：From when can I rent a yukata or summer kimono?
A: You can rent them every year from mid-June to around September!
The exact dates may vary slightly depending on the year’s weather and temperature.
We also share updates on our Instagram!
Q2：What measures should I take to stay cool?
A：Please bring your own items to help stay cool!
- Cooling spray
- Handheld fan
- Salt candy / Salt tablets
- Parasol (rental available)
Since Kyoto is a basin and tends to be humid and hot, we recommend taking breaks in cafés or indoors to cool down.
And don’t forget to stay hydrated!
Q3：What should I be careful about when renting yukata or summer kimono?
A：Please wear innerwear that is not see-through!
Yukata and summer kimono often come in light colors or thin fabrics, so dark-colored innerwear may show through.
We recommend wearing beige or other skin-toned innerwear for a natural look✨
Also, high-neck innerwear can peek out from the collar.
A V-neck or open-neck style is the best choice!
Let’s enjoy summer in Kyoto with yukata and summer kimono!
This time, we introduced Tekuteku Kyoto’s yukata and summer kimono!
Even though the hot summer can make it hard to go outside, there are plenty of fun events to enjoy during this season✨
Of course, regular clothes are nice too, but wearing a yukata or summer kimono makes it feel even more special!
Experience the charm of Kyoto’s summer in elegant traditional style♡
