6 Osaka Kimono Experiences Worth Your Yen

1.Sumo Show & Experience w/ Optional Kimono & Hot Pot

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 609 reviews · from $77Our pick

At Sumo restaurant Ochiizumibeya, a host introduces sumo history and rules before a roughly 35-minute show, audience games, and a 10 to 15-minute sumo tryout. You can pose with the wrestlers, wear a haori coat, and add a kimono session or chanko nabe meal. The hosts include Taka, Taco, and Kiko.

“It was an amazing night! Wish I had raised my hand to experience wresting with one of them. Too full from the hotpot meal haha. (Will definitely watch on my next trip). Otherwise, overall was interestingly fun especially when they incorporated humour into it while diving into the dynamics of the sumo sport at the same time.”

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2.Learning Zen of Japanese Calligraphy in kimono near Osaka Castle

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 53 reviews · from $43

Near Osaka Castle, you’ll dress in traditional clothing, learn brush technique from a shodo teacher, and practice a kanji character of your choice. An English-speaking instructor or translator helps guide the class. You’ll also receive a wooden tag with your name rendered in kanji, plus digital photos of you with your work.

“Very friendly atmosphere during the experience even if it is your first calligraphy, You are helped and supported and it makes you want to improve this lovely art.”

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3.Kimono or Yukata Rental &Photos Service Options

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 25 reviews · 1 day · from $18Best value

At MEET Kimono near Nippombashi Station, choose from 400 to 500 kimono and yukata designs, including anime-inspired styles. Dressing, accessories and multilingual help are included; hairstyling and an outdoor photo session cost extra. Explore Osaka on your own, then return the outfit by 5 pm.

“I can't express enough how wonderful the experience was. The staff were very welcoming, kind, enthusiastic and encouraging. They made me feel beautiful and taken care of. They gave me recommendations to where to visit to take photos. The selection of Kimonos and Yukatas is numerous with lots of beautiful accessories to choose from. Definitely recommend. I'm so grateful for the service.”

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4.Kimono photoshoot-Includes 100 photo data

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 21 reviews · 90 minutes - 2 hours · from $96Top rated

At Studio Norluss in Shinsaibashi, rent a kimono and spend about 90 minutes to two hours on a private photo shoot. A professional photographer guides you to local outdoor spots or takes pictures in a studio with cherry blossoms on the backdrop year-round. The package includes 100 photo files; hair, makeup, prints, and retouching cost extra.

“It was fun being able to wearing kimono’s and take professional photos. All the staff were helpful and professional.”

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5.Premium Kimono Dressing, Tea Ceremony, Calligraphy, Samurai show

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 18 reviews · from $123

At -michi- in Osaka, spend about three hours with kimono dressing for women, a tea ceremony, calligraphy, traditional Japanese music, and samurai sword performances. Staff explain the activities as you take part. Samurai armor dressing and a souvenir are not included in the $123.49 price, so check the extra cost before booking.

“Unbelievable customer service and one of the best things to do in Osaka. Loved the kimono dressing and the tea ceremony and calligraphy was exceptional.”

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6.Learning Shodo with a kimono and Trying Samurai Calligraphy

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 7 reviews · 1 hour · from $42

At Samurai Honor in Osaka, a certified instructor guides you through brush basics, kanji practice and a final calligraphy piece while you wear a kimono or samurai costume. The session also describes a dramatic oversized-brush activity, a photo shoot and a custom kanji bag. English is the default interpreter language; optional hair styling and other packages cost extra.

“A fabulous time learning Calligraphy and dressing in kimono. Our teacher was lovely and helpful, as well as very knowledgeable when we asked questions. Would recommend to everyone”

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