Yukata Rental in Asakusa: When Does the Season Start and End? A Summer Styling Guide
The yukata rental season varies from shop to shop, but at HANAYAKA it usually runs from June to the end of October. Outside that, we only offer kimono plans.
The high point of summer is the Sumida River Fireworks Festival
On the day of the Sumida River Fireworks Festival in July, every yukata in Asakusa is booked out. It is the busiest day of the year. Many shops set special rules for things like return times on that day only, so we recommend an online booking well in advance.
Yukata plan prices
Both women’s and men’s yukata start at ¥4,950 (tax included), and the couple plan is ¥8,800 (tax included) for two. The Taisho Roman yukata (¥6,600), trimmed with lace and a pearl obi (sash), is popular because it photographs well. See our pricing plans for the full line-up.
Month by month: how to spend the yukata season
June: the season opens. There are still few tourists and you can take your pick of the yukata. It is quietly the best month.July: the peak, thanks to the Sumida River Fireworks Festival. Booking is essential that week.August: high summer. Early morning and evening are the comfortable hours, and Sumida Park at sunset is the golden hour for photos.September to October: yukata while the late heat lasts, then more people switch to kimono once it cools down.
The right way to decide between yukata and kimono is by temperature. Above 25 degrees, wear yukata. Below that, kimono is more comfortable.
Three practical tricks for staying comfortable in yukata
First, wear a thin, sweat-absorbing layer underneath. Worn straight against the skin, a yukata sticks to you. Second, bring two plasters for the geta thong rubbing the base of your big toe. If you are walking for hours, they are essential. Third, drink through a straw. That protects both your lipstick and the way your yukata sits.
We keep your luggage at the shop, so going out empty-handed is the coolest and easiest option. There is more in our article on what to bring.
How to handle fireworks day (the annual game plan)
On the day of the Sumida River Fireworks Festival, Asakusa is more crowded than at any other time of the year. Three points. 1. Get dressed in the morning. The afternoon slots are fought over every year. 2. Walk and watch rather than claiming a spot. Around the piers you will not be able to move. 3. Check the return time in advance. Special rules may apply that day.
For this day only, we strongly recommend an online booking a few weeks ahead.
Yukata plan price list (tax included)
| Plan | Price |
|---|---|
| Taisho Roman yukata | ¥6,600 |
| Men’s yukata | ¥4,950 |
| Women’s yukata | ¥4,950 |
| Couple yukata plan | ¥8,800 |
*Tax included. Prices correct as of the date of this article; see pricing plans for the latest.
Frequently asked questions
- Q. From what month can I rent a yukata?
- We usually offer them from June to the end of October. The dates can shift with the weather, so please ask about May and November.
- Q. Can I rent on the day of the fireworks festival?
- Yes if we have availability, but the fireworks day fills up with bookings every year. We recommend booking a few weeks ahead.
- Q. What should I wear under a yukata?
- We recommend a thin, sweat-absorbing layer such as a camisole. Undergarments are included in the plan.
- Q. Do you have men’s and couples’ yukata?
- We have men’s yukata at ¥4,950 and a couple yukata plan at ¥8,800 for two. Both include hair styling and dressing.
- Q. Can I do the tea ceremony experience in a yukata?
- Yes. In summer the tea ceremony experience plan is done in yukata (¥12,100, dressing included).
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