If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto and wondering what to do, how to rent a kimono, or where to find the best street food, this vlog has got you covered! Kyoto is one of Japan’s most iconic cities, filled with stunning temples, rich history, and delicious local treats. In this video, I take you through a day of adventure, from renting a kimono to exploring Kiyomizu-dera, shopping for souvenirs, and even encountering some unexpected surprises along the way!
After arriving in Kyoto, we were immediately struck by the station’s unique architecture, a blend of modern design and intricate structure. Unfortunately, our schedule was tight, so we didn’t have time to explore it. Right in front of the station, the Kyoto Tower stood tall against the clear blue sky, a beautiful contrast to the city’s traditional charm.
We quickly made our way to the crowded bus station, surprising for a Tuesday, and hopped on a bus to head to our kimono rental appointment. The streets buzzed with life, and even in the rush, Kyoto’s timeless beauty was undeniable.
Such a beautiful view of Kyoto Tower!
We found the kimono rental shop, but it was still closed. With a few minutes to spare, we took the opportunity to have breakfast. Earlier, we had stopped by a convenience store and picked up some snacks. I chose shrimp and mayonnaise onigiri, while my sister went for a strawberry melon pan. Enjoying our quick meal, we soaked in the quiet morning atmosphere, getting ready for the day ahead.
Our breakfast before going to the rental kimono shop.
How to Rent a Kimono in Kyoto?
Renting a kimono is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Japanese culture while exploring Kyoto. The city is filled with rental shops offering a wide variety of stunning designs, and many provide assistance with styling and accessories. At first, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to wear one, but I changed my mind, it’s a unique experience that doesn’t come around every day.
A few days before, we searched on Google to find a kimono rental store and discovered that most places required an appointment. So, we picked a day that wasn’t forecasted to rain. We chose a shop called Kyokomachi, on their website, we initially chose lace kimonos and added a hairstyling option.
When the store opened, we went inside. After seeing the lace kimonos in person, we decided to switch to the traditional ones since there were more design options. The variety was incredible, and after browsing for a while, we chose our favorites. I picked a beige kimono with pastel pink hues and delicate gold details, while my sister chose a black kimono with purple accents. We both added an extra accessory, a purse, which was perfect for carrying our phones.
They helped us get dressed, carefully wrapping the kimonos and tying the obi. For the hairstyle, we picked from a sheet with example pictures. I chose a half-pinned style that felt delicate and elegant. After selecting our hair accessories, they curled our hair slightly and set everything with hairspray. As we were finishing up, the store started getting busier, but thankfully, our appointment was the first of the day. We left our bags at the shop, feeling light and ready to wander through the charming streets of Kyoto.
Exploring Kyoto in a kimono
I have to admit, walking in a kimono with those traditional sandals is a bit tricky, but totally worth it! Luckily, the rental shop is conveniently located just a few meters from the places we wanted to visit.
Our first stop was Hōkan-ji Temple, also known as Yasaka Pagoda. The street leading up to it was bustling with tourists, and every now and then, a car would slowly pass through. It’s a stunning spot for photos, but you need a little patience to capture the perfect shot amid the lively crowd.
What to Eat in Kyoto?
Kyoto is famous for its street food, and I made sure to try some local favorites! One must-try snack is mitarashi dango, a grilled rice dumpling coated in a sweet soy glaze, so delicious! The sweet smell of grilled mochi filled the air, drawing in tourists eager for a quick snack. While walking around, I also explored a cute café with fluffy milk foam drinks. If you’re a foodie, this vlog will give you plenty of ideas on where to eat in Kyoto.
Eating something so traditional while dressed in a kimono made the experience feel even more special like we had stepped back in time for a moment.
Ghibli Donguri store in Kyoto
If you’re looking for unique souvenirs, Kyoto’s shopping streets are full of hidden gems. From handmade crafts and traditional ceramics to fun fridge magnets, there’s something for everyone. I visited a Ghibli store, which had some of the cutest Studio Ghibli merchandise! Whether you’re a fan of Totoro or just looking for a memorable gift, Kyoto has some of the best shopping spots.
Next to Hōkan-ji Temple, we discovered a charming Ghibli store that felt like stepping into a scene from one of the movies. The shop was filled with adorable plushies, figures, and whimsical merchandise featuring beloved characters like Totoro and Jiji. Right at the entrance, there was a giant Totoro figure, perfect for taking pictures, it felt like he was welcoming everyone inside. The space was small but overflowing with magic, with shelves full of delicate accessories, stationery, and collectibles. It was a delightful surprise that added an extra touch of nostalgia and wonder to our Kyoto adventure.
Chirimen Craft Museum Store
We also stopped by the Chirimen Craft Museum Store, a lovely shop filled with handcrafted souvenirs made from kimono fabric. The store was bursting with colorful displays of coin purses, hair accessories, keychains, and even small stuffed animals, all created with intricate patterns and delicate textures. Each item felt like a tiny piece of Japanese tradition, making it the perfect place to find unique gifts or keepsakes. It was hard to choose just one thing, as everything was so beautifully made, a true treasure trove of charm and craftsmanship.
After exploring the souvenir shops, our bags were a little heavier, but our hearts were full. Each store offered something special, from delicate fabric accessories to whimsical Ghibli-themed trinkets. It felt like we were bringing a piece of Kyoto’s charm and artistry with us. Every item we chose held a memory of the day, the streets we walked, the temples we visited, and the joy of discovering hidden gems along the way.
Taking a Gong Cha tapioca with no tapioca balls
We decided to take a break and cool down with a drink at Gong Cha, a popular bubble tea shop known for its delicious teas and customizable options. The store smelled sweet and inviting, and I was excited to relax with a refreshing drink after walking around Kyoto.
However, when it was time to pay, I realized the shop didn’t accept cash. I tried using my card, but for some reason, it didn’t work. Thankfully, a kind Chinese guy offered to pay for me, and I quickly paid him back in cash. When my order finally arrived, I was surprised to find it missing the tapioca balls. I thought the menu option to “add extra” meant they were already included, but it turned out I hadn’t added any at all. It was a funny mix-up, but the tea was still delicious!
Why you should watch this vlog
If you’re dreaming of exploring Kyoto or just love seeing cozy travel moments, this vlog is for you! I take you through charming streets in a kimono, visit iconic temples, discover adorable souvenir shops, and even share some unexpected adventures, like a mix-up at a bubble tea shop. It’s a glimpse into a day filled with culture, beautiful scenery, and little surprises. Whether you’re planning your own trip or just want to relax with a calming travel diary, this vlog captures the magic of Kyoto in a way that feels personal and authentic.
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