You may have noticed many people wearing traditional Japanese dress if you’ve attended summer fireworks festivals. These summer events provide a perfect opportunity to wear yukata, a summer, informal version of the kimono. The term ‘yukata’ translates to ‘after bathing,’ initially referring to the attire worn after onsen (hot spring) or sento (public bath) in traditional Japanese ryokan (inns). These unlined kimonos are popular for men, women, and children during the hot summer, especially during festivals.
Yukata are typically made from cotton or synthetic fabrics, making them cooler than the traditional silk kimonos. A complete yukata outfit consists of three main elements:
- ‘Juban’ Cotton Undergarment: Worn underneath the yukata to protect the outer fabric and absorb sweat.
- The Yukata Itself: An unlined, lightweight, and breathable kimono, perfect for summer.
- ‘Obi’ Belt: A wide belt that ties around the waist, securing the yukata in place and adding an element of style.
To complete the look, people wear wooden sandals known as ‘geta’ and carry personal items in small bags called ‘kinchaku’.
Where to Buy a Yukata
Kimono Komehyo / Osu Arcade
The shopping arcade in Osu is your best bet for finding a yukata that suits you at a reasonable price, thanks to the abundance of stores. You can find various yukata and kimono stores on Osu Kannon-dori, Bansyoji-dori, Nioumon-dori, and Higashi Nioumon-dori. The most popular Osu store is probably Kimono Komehyo. They stock everything for your yukata and kimono needs, including vintage and new products.
2-19-22 Osu, Naka-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 460-0011, Japan (map)
Matsuzakaya
Over the summer, this high-end department store in Sakae becomes the ultimate destination for purchasing the most up-to-date and stylish yukata.
4F South Building, 3-16-1, Sakae, Naka-ku, (map)
UNIQLO
If Matsuzakaya is out of your budget, you can also find yukatas at the discount clothing store UNIQLO. You can even buy complete yukata sets, including obi and kinchaku.
5F Skyle Building, Sakae, Naka-ku, (map)
How to Wear Your New Yukata
For women:
For men:
Image by Corpse Reviver, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
