Kimono, the traditional Japanese garment, continues to captivate people around the world with its intricate designs, luxurious fabrics, and deep cultural significance. Whether worn for formal occasions, seasonal festivals, or as a modern fashion statement, kimono remains a symbol of Japanese heritage and artistry. Recently, a renewed appreciation for this timeless attire has been observed, with designers integrating traditional elements into contemporary styles and enthusiasts embracing kimono-wearing as a lifestyle choice.

 

In anticipation of the Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) on March 3rd, various exhibitions and celebrations have been held across Japan. One of the most notable events is the Hina Doll Exhibition at the Kawanishi City Local Museum in Hyogo Prefecture, where over 110 antique dolls from the Taisho period are on display. Visitors, including families with children, have been enjoying an early glimpse of spring through these beautifully adorned dolls, which are exhibited in a carefully restored heritage house.

 

Another captivating event is the Tango no Sekku Festival, a traditional celebration of children's growth and prosperity. While commonly associated with Boys’ Day on May 5th, it is also a time when kimono-wearing is prominently featured. In various regions, communities come together to admire exquisite kimono designs and handcrafted decorations made from vintage fabrics. These events showcase how historical customs and attire continue to thrive in modern times.

Additionally, the Seikyoji Temple in Otsu City is hosting a special exhibition of hina dolls from the Edo period to the present day. The temple has been displaying these treasured dolls since 1999, following requests from families affected by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake who wished to have their dolls preserved and honored. This year, approximately 600 dolls are on display, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolving aesthetics of kimono over the centuries.

 

 

With various kimono-related festivities happening across Japan, this season presents a wonderful opportunity to explore the beauty and cultural significance of this iconic garment. Whether through exhibitions, traditional festivals, or modern adaptations, kimono continues to inspire admiration and appreciation worldwide.

Kimono dresses, created by upcycling traditional Japanese garments into stylish Western-style clothing, are gaining popularity. These dresses preserve the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of kimono fabric while eliminating the complexities of traditional kimono dressing. Foreign visitors have embraced this trend, seeing it as a fashionable and wearable way to appreciate Japanese culture. The kimono dress is also emerging as an alternative to traditional attire for weddings, Shichi-Go-San ceremonies, and other celebratory occasions. Additionally, this trend is expected to stimulate demand for kimono that would otherwise remain unworn in households.

 

One company at the forefront of this movement is Kien, a Kyoto-based brand specializing in kimono dress production. The company upcycles unsold kimono stock from kimono retailers and vintage kimono brought in by customers. By carefully cutting and sewing the fabric to preserve its original design, Kien creates unique dresses that maintain the essence of traditional craftsmanship. Since 2023, with the resurgence of social events post-pandemic, demand for kimono dresses has surged.

The company is also tapping into the inbound tourism market. Kien opened a store in Tokyo’s upscale Ginza district in 2024, offering over 50 ready-made kimono dresses that travelers can easily take home. With international customers accounting for around 20% of sales, CEO Yoshie Kitagawa notes, "Traditional kimono can be challenging to wear and transport as souvenirs. With dresses, people can enjoy the beauty of kimono fabric in everyday life, even after returning home."

Kimono dresses typically start at around 100,000 yen (approx. $670 USD). Expanding its global reach, Kien has held pop-up events in affluent regions such as Singapore and Dubai. The company also designs abayas, the traditional Muslim outer garment, using kimono fabric. These abayas, featuring lightweight linings for better ventilation, are designed for comfortable wear even in hot climates. Looking ahead, Kien is considering opening stores overseas.

 

Kitagawa was inspired to start her business after witnessing piles of unsold kimono in a store. "The number of discarded kimono will continue to rise over the next two decades. By giving them new life, we can preserve this cultural heritage for future generations," she explains.

 

According to Kyoto-based jewelry and kimono company Kimono to Hōshoku-sha, approximately 30 million kimono are currently sitting unused in Japanese homes. By transforming these garments into modern fashion items, the industry hopes to not only reduce waste but also generate renewed interest in kimono fabric.

 

Source: Nikkei news

 

Kimono Dresses for Children’s Milestone Celebrations

 

Lilia no Shiro, a photo studio in Chiba, has seen a growing demand for children’s "Wa Dresses"—kimono-inspired dresses designed for special occasions. These dresses, available for rent nationwide, are particularly popular for "half-seijinshiki" (a celebration for ten-year-olds). Unlike traditional kimono, the one-piece design is comfortable, making it easier for children to wear for extended periods. The studio also offers baby-sized versions, allowing entire families to coordinate their attire for commemorative photoshoots. CEO Yuri Satomi notes, "Our Wa Dresses are highly regarded in the industry, and we aim to expand rentals to other photo studios."

 

Kimono Transformation Without Cutting: "Fukukimono"

For those hesitant to alter heirloom kimono permanently, Kamakura-based Marie Fleurir offers "Fukukimono" services. This innovative approach transforms kimono into dresses using strings and buttons instead of cutting the fabric. Many customers opt for this service to incorporate their mother’s kimono into wedding dresses for their children. The reversible transformation allows the kimono to return to its original state after the event, preserving its sentimental value.

 

Revitalizing Kimono Culture Through Upcycling

 

Kimono upcycling extends beyond dresses. The movement has expanded to handbags, umbrellas, and other accessories, ensuring that traditional fabric finds new life in modern fashion. As kimono-wearing occasions dwindle, this sustainable approach helps preserve the artistry and cultural significance of Japan’s iconic garment for future generations.

Do you want to enter Japan market?

 

There are many kimono related companies on sale in Japan.

 

Talk to us. We support M&A and business development around the world.

 

We work on the performance base! Free consultation. When you have a great service, product, let us work together. We bring your product, service to Japan, China etc.

 

Are you interested in buying a company or hotel in Japan? Are you interested in buying a hotel or restaurant chain in South East Asia e.g. Vietnam?