Formal Kimono Rental in Asakusa (Homongi, Iromuji, Tomesode)

Formal kimono is what you wear when the day itself is the occasion. In Asakusa that usually means an anniversary visit to the temple, a family portrait, or the hours either side of a ceremony. The formal plans cover four styles: homongi, iromuji, irotomesode and kurotomesode.

What is the difference between homongi, iromuji and tomesode?

Homongi is the semi-formal style whose pattern runs unbroken from the shoulder, across the sleeve and down the hem. Because the design does not stop at the seams, it reads as a single picture whether you are standing or sitting. It is the most flexible of the four and is worn by married and unmarried guests alike.

Iromuji is dyed a single colour with no pattern at all. With nothing to decorate it, the colour and the obi carry the whole outfit, and in photographs the face comes forward rather than the fabric.

Tomesode is patterned only below the waist, with the upper body left plain. Kurotomesode — black tomesode — has a black ground and has long been the most formal dress for married women. Irotomesode has a ground of any other colour and is worn by married and unmarried guests alike.

What do the four formal styles cost?

Iromuji starts at ¥13,000; homongi, irotomesode and kurotomesode start at ¥16,000. The price covers the kimono set, zori sandals, a bag, basic hair styling and the dressing itself.

Two things are optional: make-up at ¥4,500 per person and a more elaborate hairstyle at ¥1,700 per person. Make-up must be booked in advance and cannot be added on the day.

Is the obi charged separately on the formal plans?

No. The iromuji, homongi and tomesode plans include a fukuro obi at no extra charge. A fukuro obi is the wider, dressier belt, and it gives the back of the outfit real depth.

The plans where a half-width obi is standard and upgrading costs extra — ¥1,500 for an otaiko knot, ¥3,000 for a decorative knot — are lace, komon and short-sleeve furisode. Those upgrade charges never apply to the four formal styles.

Can I reserve a specific formal kimono in advance?

We can hold a specific kimono only if it is paid in full, and it cannot be swapped after you arrive. If you would rather see the pieces in person and decide at the counter, book without a hold.

How much is the deposit, and when do I return the kimono?

While you are out we hold a security deposit of ¥10,000 per person. It is a holding amount rather than a fee: it is returned in full when the kimono comes back, and it is separate from the rental price.

Return is by 17:00 the same day. To keep the outfit into the evening, extend to a next-day return for ¥1,100 per person and bring it back by 14:00.

On sizing: if you are over 180cm, or simply unsure about the fit, we are glad to talk it through with you before your visit.

When should I book?

Your booking is confirmed once the reservation deposit is paid — ¥1,000 for one to four guests, ¥2,000 for five to eight.

Cancellations and date changes are free until 20:00 the day before your visit.