To this day the area still produces a vast number of kimono, coming in second only to Japan’s cultural hub of Kyoto. The people of Tokamachi are extremely proud of their home grown artisanship, and host a number of events in May showing their deep connection to Japan’s traditional dress.

Semi-formal kimono are the forgotten middle child of the kimono family. They’re like your business suit or little black dress. They’re a necessary part of every wardrobe for the few times you wear it, but they’re not as glamorous as the formal garments you may own. There also aren’t as many opportunities to wear them as your very casual clothes. Semi-formal kimono bridge the gap and they can be easy to overlook.

Those who maintain venerable traditions are highly valued in Kyoto. Even though maiko and the older geiko are part of an exclusive high society, there are not enough new recruits anymore. In the renowned Gion area they dart out of taxis into teahouses at twilight, so there is little chance to stop them for a photo.

Asakusa is a district in Taito, Tokyo, famous for temples and also the Skytree. The most exciting experience I have tried in Asakusa was being dressed in a Kimono. There are different shops where you can rent a kimono, with different rates depending also on the package plan.

It took me a year or so to start appreciating casual kimono, and now my absolute favorite kimono to wear is a tsumugi kimono! Find out more below!

Mt. Fuji is Japan's most famous and beloved landmark so it is on most people's "must see" lists. However, not everyone is willing or able to climb it. Fortunately, there are many ways to enjoy Fuji and the surrounding areas without hiking.

Your eye is caught by the most gorgeous kimono. The colors are vibrant. The silk is luxurious. The designs are eye catching. Congratulations! You’ve fallen in love with a kimono.

From how to tell a tourist kimono from a real one, to where to shop depending on your budget, you’ll go home with the right kimono for you.

Imagine people in kimonos being part of the landscape. Now, imagine YOURSELF in a kimono at that place.

With its unique Edo-period street display, visitors to The Osaka Museum of Housing and Living can literally walk into history, and make some very modern memories taking photos in kimono.

This is a special day or the children aged three, five and seven years. They will visit nearby shrines with their parents and attend prayers conducted there.

What can you do on a rainy afternoon in Kyoto? The city of course is featuring wonderful museums, a testimony of its central role in Japanese history, culture and art, which you don’t want to miss. But if you really want to dig into the atmosphere of a neighborhood of Kyoto, never mind the rain.