This was my second time wearing a yukata. The first was for my wedding anniversary, which left such a deep impression on me, so I was excited to try it again in a different setting. This time, I had this wonderful experience with Maison 1895, a historic kimono and yukata rental located inside the KKR Hotel in Shibayama, right near Otemachi. The location itself already felt elegant, and it’s just a short walk from Takebashi Station on the Tozai Line, making it very accessible.

Maison 1895 is known for offering refined kimono experiences in Tokyo. Their staff are professional artisans who carefully dress you in a yukata, while also allowing you to choose the patterns and colors that suit your taste. What makes it more special is that their package includes not just the dressing, but also hairstyling, accessories, and even the option to walk around the Imperial Palace area afterward. I was very excited to experience this once again and, at the same time, document it from beginning to end.

Yukata Reservation and Cost

If you would like to try this out for yourself, then it is good to keep these points.

Reservations can be made directly by contacting them directly through their Instagram account. They can accommodate up to four people per booking, so it’s a good option for couples, families, or small groups of friends who may want to experience traditional Japanese attire together. They accept payments made both via card and cash, which makes everything very easy and smooth.

The plan costs 30,000 yen and includes:

• A free yukata
• Obi (the decorative sash)
• Sandals
• Yukata dressing by professional staff
• Hairstyling with accessories

Makeup is not included, so it’s best to arrive with your full face ready and prepped beforehand. You are also in charge of preparing your own filming set if you want to record the process and post about it on your social media accounts.

A few important notes: the Shibayama Beauty Salon (where the dressing takes place) is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Additionally, there are some days when the Imperial Palace gardens are closed to the public, so it’s best to double-check before planning your visit.

The Yukata Dressing Experience

Storytelling time…When I arrived at the salon, I was warmly welcomed by the staff who greeted me at the reception. They gave me a small basket where I could store my bag and belongings, and then guided me to choose from their wide selection of yukata. There were so many designs and colors to pick from, but I eventually settled on one with pink florals and a touch of mint green to complete my look.

The dressing area was very spacious and calm, and closely resembled an actual hair salon, fully equipped with a large mirror and comfortable chairs that allowed me to watch the process. They also helped me set up my camera to film myself going through hairstyling. The staff tried to small talk with me as much as she could while she was skillfully securing my hair with decorative pins and accessories I chose that made the whole look feel cohesive.

The professional staff led me to a separate room where they started putting on the Yukata for me. They dressed me in so many different layers, though surprisingly did not make me feel too hot or uncomfortable despite it being 36 degrees! A yukata may look simple, but there’s a surprising amount of technique involved in tying everything neatly to make you look presentable.

Typical layers when wearing a yukata include:

1. Undergarments – usually a light cotton slip to absorb sweat and protect the fabric.
2. Yukata robe – the main cotton garment, wrapped left over right.
3. Obi (sash) – tied around the waist, often in a decorative bow at the back.
4. Accessories – such as obijime (a cord), haneri (collar), or hair ornaments to complete the look.

The staff let me choose which obi design I preferred while carefully adjusting the colors to match my yukata and also giving subtle recommendations on what would look best. They were not only professional but also warm, kind, and even a little humorous, and smiled faintly at a few comments I made with my very limited Japanese — and it helped me feel less tense throughout the process.

Walking Around the Imperial Palace in a Yukata

Once I was fully dressed, one of the senior staff kindly offered to walk with me toward the Imperial Palace, which is only a few minutes away. Stepping out in a yukata felt special because it was like I was stepping back into another time.

Compared to Asakusa, which can often feel crowded and busy, the Otemachi Imperial Palace area was calm and serene. The wide-open spaces and towering gates, the greenery, and the backdrop of the Palace itself created a very unique feeling for me as it allowed me to feel transported back in time. If Asakusa makes you feel like you’re an ordinary person in Edo times, then the Imperial Palace makes you feel like an Edo princess!

Security checks are in place at the entrance, so I only brought my small bag and phone with me. I had about an hour to stroll around, take photos, and enjoy the view before going back to the hotel. The only challenge was the traditional sandals I wore– they looked beautiful but weren’t the most comfortable for extended walking, and I think I developed a few blisters a few days after that walk. Still, it was worth it for the atmosphere and the photos I was able to capture.

After the Yukata Experience

When I returned to the salon, the staff helped me undress and get myself ready to leave. The whole process was smooth and thoughtful, leaving me with not just beautiful pictures but also a memory I’ll treasure forever!

Maison 1895 offers more than just a rental service — it’s an experience that blends elegance, tradition, and hospitality. If you’re visiting Tokyo and want something refined and meaningful, this is an activity worth considering.

To Recap…

Wearing a yukata again reminded me of my wedding anniversary, but this time, the setting near the Imperial Palace gave it a new charm. From the professional and kind staff at Maison 1895, to the magical atmosphere of Otemachi, it truly felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you’re planning to try it yourself, here are my quick tips:

• Reserve in advance via Instagram (up to 4 people).
• Check schedules: the salon closes on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and the Palace gardens have closed days.
• Wear light makeup beforehand since it’s not included.
• Bring comfy shoes if you plan to walk longer afterward.
• Enjoy the details: from choosing your yukata to strolling in the serene Imperial Palace grounds, every step is part of the charm.

For anyone wanting an authentic, elegant, and personal yukata experience in Tokyo, Maison 1895 is definitely worth it.

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