Laten we kimono maken!（Kimono is een cadeau voor jou

Interesting experience but I cannot recommend it. The staff in the shop are outstanding, kind, patient and helpful. But while I knew the kimonos were vintage (therefore used), I did not expect holes, stains and fraying that I had to look out for. There were a lot to choose from, but, for me, the selection gave me the feeling that they had been there a long, long time and I was looking through what was left over. Maybe I’m too picky, but the only kimono I found that I truly liked was so stained that even the staff suggested I not choose it. My husband’s first choice had an obvious hole in the back. Also, there are a small pile of kimonos (and even a smaller pile of yukatas) that are included with the price of the workshop but the vast majority carry an additional fee, as do all of the accessories, most of which are really required to make a kimono work. Seriously, how could you successfully wear a kimono that’s been cut in half without the obi belt? Between my husband and myself, we spent an additional $113 (over and above the workshop fee) to have kimonos that could be worn, and mine is one that I really did not like, but the best I could find. I should have probably cut my losses and left, but I'd already paid the workshop fee and didn't really realize how much it was all adding up to until the end (my fault, as prices are clearly posted). Plus, I didn’t want to be negative during a vacation activity with other guests, which complaining and leaving would have been. And then there is the fact that the process is to cut a kimono in half and add hems and ties with iron-on tape. My ties (which the staff ironed on) pulled off the first time I tried to put the kimono on in my hotel room, rendering it unusable for the duration of our month-long trip. When contacted, the proprietor said I pulled too hard. Back in our hotel room I also found the obi belt, which I paid $40 for, had serious and noticeable fraying at multiple places that I hadn't thought to look for. I communicated my issues and pictures of the fraying to the proprietor of the shop who responded kindly. She offered a small 2,000 yen ($12.50) compensation for the obi belt fraying, even though she said this is to be expected with vintage pieces (huh???). Since that communication was over 6 weeks ago and she never followed up and provided that small, nominal compensation, I decided to write this review. It's clear some people like this activity, but it was not our thing. Also, please realize that a kimono, and all its accessories, is quite large even when folded, and will be surprisingly heavy and bulky to fit in a suitcase and lug around Japan for the rest of your trip.

This was a beautiful studio with lovely people, and I came away with a beautiful kimono. The woman there explained the history and traditions behind different types of kimonos very well, and I felt like I gained an understanding about what they represented. The craft activity is simple and meditative. The area is also very beautiful and secluded.

The vintage kimono selection for women was lovely with many different patterns and choices of fabric. There were lovely coordinating obis either with flat panels or fancy bows and coordinating cords. Several of the garments only needed minimal hemming to fit. The instructors also gave a guide for wearing. Would highly recommend this experience!

The experience was wonderful and the girls were beautiful and kind. The only complaint I have is the prices are not up front. Very basic material is a free kimono, but if you want better quality and pretty prints it can cost you up to 6000 yen more and it is 10000 yen for obi etc

Fun experience but we did have some problems with getting the obi on the next day. We didn’t reach out to the company due to the last min problems and we were already running late. But the kimonos are very pretty

One of the most memorable activities you can find in Japan. Why rent kimono & yukata when you can choose and have something cut to fit you? Look no further because the kind ladies at this wonderful establishment are the experts in choosing the perfect garment! Please add this activity to your vacation schedule you won’t regret it!!!

This was a great fun experience. The ladies spoke English well and guided me through the process. Their expertise in helping me choose pieces resulted in a beautiful kimono. The guys left with nice kimonos too. A quick experience that left enough time to enjoy the rest of the day.

I am so happy we had the opportunity to do this! :)

Our group of four women (all 60+) made a reservation to do this. Based on previous reviews, we were a little worried about making our way on our own so we called a taxi. The taxi dropped us within 20 feet of the house where this takes place. Look carefully and you will see a sign if you are the first appointment of the day. When you first enter, someone will explian the different price levels of the kimonos (basic is included in your price but you can choose a better one.). After that, you ascend some rather steep stairs to work on your kimono. What you do is cut your chosen kimono in two and then use basting tape to iron the edges. After, the workers will help you choose your obi and other accessories. You can buy these for a nominal fee as well. Just a word to the wise, you do not have to cut your kimono in two. One of my friends chose to leave hers in one piece. She plans to have it altered into something once she is home. Two of us decided to upgrade and buy our Obi and other accessories. All in all, we upgraded about $100 USD. Did I have buyers regret? A little but only because I worried about getting it all home with me. They were rather heavy. All in all, it was a delightful experience. If you arrive early, be sure and explore the area. There is a shrine/temple just around the corner. You can also wander over to the river and cross to a busier area. Just be sure and drop a pin so you can find your way back. You won't want to miss this.

If you want your own kimono and don’t know where to start or wish it was easier, this is a must do experience. The staff are super helpful and very kind to say the least! Pick your own kimono (nicer ones cost extra) and cut it in half! This makes it easier to put it on on your own later so you don’t have to be a folding expert. They assist you with hemming the edges of your cut kimono with heat activated tape and an iron, so be aware that for heavy use of your new easy wear kimono you may need to reinforce this later with stitching or updating the adhesive.