The kimono is a traditional garment in Japan. Kimonos are worn at weddings, coming-of-age ceremonies, and other milestones in life, and are an important part of Japanese culture even today.
Foreigners are also interested in kimonos, and many foreign-language kimono rental stores are lined up at sightseeing spots in Japan, where many people enjoy the experience of wearing kimonos.
We asked foreigners who have worn a kimono in Japan what surprised them about the experience. Many of them gave their opinions that even Japanese people couldn’t help but sympathize with! Let’s take a look.
main image: PIXTA
I can’t believe you put a towel in there! I was amazed at the process of putting it on
Photo: PIXTA
The process of wearing a kimono garnered the most common comments, with individuals expressing their surprise and astonishment.
“I never imagined the number of elements required to wear a kimono, such as numerous strings and towels.” (American / 30s / Female)
“It caught me off guard to have kimono strings tied around my chest.” (Chinese / 20s / Female)
“Kimonos demand various accessories for wearing them. When I purchased only the kimono online, I later realized I urgently needed an obi (sash) and a juban (special undergarment), so I hurriedly ordered them.” (Australian / 20s / Female)
“While wearing a yukata (summer kimono) at a hot spring, I was informed that it was ‘left-front.’ It was my first encounter with the fact that this was the way deceased individuals wore kimonos. I was surprised to learn that the rules completely differed based on the layering order.” (Chilean / 30s / Male)
The process of putting on a kimono is time-consuming and necessitates various items, which even astonish Japanese people.
Particularly, women employ towels and cotton pads to shape the garment, considering how it will appear when worn.
If you possess a voluptuous figure, the experience may have been even more astonishing as your bosom might be compressed or wrapped in a towel.
Understanding Traditional Japanese Kimonos (And How to Wear One!)
It’s hard to put it on – but it’s even harder afterward!
Photo: PIXTA
Some individuals found that wearing a kimono was more intricate than they had initially anticipated, not only during the dressing process but also afterwards.
“It was as uncomfortable as wearing a corset! It was challenging to even sit down after being dressed (laughs). I was concerned that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy my dinner.” (Canadian / 30s / Female)
“The tabi socks caused pain in my feet, and I ended up with blisters from the friction.” (Vietnamese / 20s / Male)
“I was like…
