Yukata is a traditional Japanese summer kimono. It is a type of traditional kimono, but more casual than conventional kimono. Yukata is popular among young women for dressing up to go out to special summer events such as firework displays or bon-odori dance festivals.

In recent years, yukata with modern, colorful, bold patterns has appeared, and many women enjoy coordinating yukata with obi (sash) and geta (wooden clogs), etc.

Yukata & Onsen

Traditionally, the garment is worn after bathing in onsens, functioning as a quick way to cover the body and absorb the remaining moisture.
Most ryokan provides yukata to their guests to be worn during their stay inside the ryokan and for walks out on the streets. 

Yukata & Bon Odori

During Japanese-Buddhist gatherings called Obon or ‘Bon’ festivals, a celebration to honor one’s ancestors, during June, July, and August, Japanese people gather with their local communities adorned in yukatas or happi coats (a ‘half’ kimono)

Yukata Festival

Himeji Yukata Festival
Unfortunately, due to infection prevention, the Himeji Yukata Festival is canceled this year.

The oldest festival of its type in Japan, dating back more than 260 years.

Himeji Castle

 

Tanabata Yukata Festival

Kanda Myojin Shrine

The Tanabata story tells of the annual reunion of two lovers represented by the stars Vega and Altair in the Milky Way.

The Japanese Tanabata Festival is celebrated on July 7 (and August 7 in some areas).

On Tanabata, people write wishes on strips of colored paper called tanzaku and hang them on bamboo trees with other decorations. These become beautiful wish trees.


Kanda Myojin Shrine

Find out more about Tanabata Festival 

 

Stroll around in Kimono or Yukata and have a photo shoot

This is not a new activity, but I do recommend to everyone who visits Japan to try it out at least once! The modern metropolitan setting of Tokyo adds an edgy feeling to the Japanese traditional wardobe. You can find kimono rental shops very easily in Tokyo, especially in Asakusa, Ginza, and Harajuku.

Enjoy!