Where to Buy Yukata in Tokyo - 13 Best Stores to Get Cheap Yukata

What Is a Yukata?

Yukata is a type of traditional Japanese garment usually worn during summer. It differs from the traditional kimono in several ways, including material, design, sleeve length, seasonality, and the occasions for which it is worn. 

The origin of the yukata can be traced back to the Heian period (794-1185), when nobles wore them to avoid steam burns while entering steam baths. The word "yukata" comes from "yukatabira",  meaning “bath clothes” in Japanese. Later, when cotton was extensively used in Japan, the yukata made from absorbent and breathable cotton material, became clothing worn after bathing and as sleepwear. By the mid-Edo period (1603-1868), wearing yukata for going out became a trend, with the style gradually evolving to its modern form.

From the Meiji period (1868-1912) onward, yukata became widely popular across the country as summer attire.

Traditional yukata were originally often blue or white. White yukata provided a cooling effect, even during the peak of summer while blue yukata were ideal for evening or nighttime wear when insects are more prevalent, as the indigo dye used had insect-repelling properties.

When Do You Wear a Yukata?

The primary period for wearing yukata is during the height of summer, specifically in July and August. Considering the warm climate in recent years, yukata can be enjoyed as light, casual wear from late June to early September. After the rainy season ends, people wearing yukata can often be seen at events such as Tanabata, Obon Festivals, Bon Odori, summer festivals, and fireworks festivals. 

Additionally, when worn as indoor attire for activities or as loungewear at ryokan or onsen, yukata can be worn freely regardless of the season.

How to Wear a Yukata?

1. Put on the yukata.

Fold over the right side first, then fold the left side over top. Align the ends of the collars on both sides, ensuring that the center of the back of the yukata runs straight down your back.

2. Adjust the length of the yukata.

Hold the upper front collar end with your left hand and the lower front collar end with your right hand. Decide on the length so that the hem lightly touches your feet, and while maintaining this length, place the upper front part against your body and determine the width of the upper front.

 3. Tie the waist cord.

Place the waist cord against both hip bones and firmly hold the upper front in place. Wrap the cord from the front to the back, cross it, bring it to the front again, and tie it at the waist. 

4. Adjust the “ohashori” (fold at the waist).

The part where the excess fabric fold at the waist is called "ohashori". Neatly arrange the bottom edge of the ohashori.

 5. Tighten the chest cord.

Hold the center of the chest cord with your right hand and place it under your bust. To keep the collar in place, wrap the cord from the front to the back. Cross it at the back, pull it tight, and tie it under your right armpit. Any tying method that is easy for you is fine. Tuck the knot inside the cord.

6. Tie the “datejime” sash.

The datejime serves to secure the collar and ohashori to prevent them from shifting.

7. Tie the “ob” belt.

For women, the obi is wrapped around the waist. For men, step 4 to 6 is omitted, and the obi is wrapped around the hip bones.

What Accessories Do You Wear With a Yukata?

To stay cool in the hot summer, yukata are usually made without linings and from thin fabrics. Therefore, to prevent being see-through, it's important to wear the correct undergarments and inner clothing. You can prepare a long camisole or a chemise as the inner clothing. Yukata are tied with "hanhaba obi" belts which are cosidered a more casual type of obi.

When wearing a yukata, traditional Japanese "geta" sandals are commonly worn. Socks are not needed when wearing geta.

How Much Does a Yukata Cost in Japan?

The price range for yukata varies widely depending on the type of material, the craftsmanship, and where it is purchased but it is generally between 3,000 to 30,000 yen. Ready-made yukata can be affordable, while custom-made high-end yukata made from fabric can cost from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of yen.Of course, the price of second-hand yukata can be lower than 3,000 yen. 

Where to Buy Yukata in Tokyo

1. Konjyaku Kimono Tatsumi (Asakusa)

This is a shop specializing in second-hand kimono. As they have a large stock of new and used items, the shop can sell high-quality kimono, yukata, and obi at extremely low prices. In addition to yukata, the shop also sells antique kimono, as well as recent second-hand kimono and obi. The shop also offers a wide range of accessories needed for kimono and yukata, making it a one-stop shop. There are three “Konjyaku Kimono Tatsumi” stores in front of Asakusa Public Hall, and a sister shop named “Oriental Shop Gin” located in Nakamise Shopping Street. If you can't find the yukata you want in the store, feel free to check out the other branches!

2. Kirakuya Asakusa (Asakusa)

It is a second-hand kimono shop with the concept of "enjoying traditional Japanese clothing with ease". At Kirakuya Asakusa, they always have various carefully selected second-hand kimono, yukata, and obi available at reasonable prices! In addition, the store uses fabric from second-hand kimono and obi to create and sell original remade goods . They also offer a variety of antique second-hand items, such as Japanese-style accessories and ornaments. Don’t forget to check their Instagram account to watch their English yukata-related how-to videos!

3. Don Quijote (Shibuya/Shinjuku/Asakusa)

Don Quijote is one of Japan's largest discount stores, offering a wide range of products including groceries, daily necessities, miscellaneous goods, clothing, home decor, and electronics. Some may ask, “Does Don Quijote sell yukata?”, and the answer is yes!

Around summer (July to August), a yukata section will be set up in Don Quijote stores. Popular designs tend to sell out quickly, so if you find a pattern you like, it's best to purchase it early. The prices of yukata at Don Quijote are among the most affordable compared to other stores selling new yukata. Since Don Quijote stores are large, if you can't find the yukata section, it's a good idea to ask the staff for assistance. 

4. Mega Tansuya (Asakusa)

Tansuya offers high-quality secondhand kimono and yukata items at affordable prices. Each kimono and yukata undergo meticulous thorough cleaning, antibacterial treatment, and pressing. The store also aims to help more people learn how to wear kimono by offering wearing instruction courses in-store. If you are interested in participating in these courses, please inquire with the staff. Each store's employees are experienced in kimono, so you can ask them about wearing occasions, coordination, dressing techniques, and care methods!

As the name "MEGA Tansuya" suggests, its most notable feature is its vast floor space. It is one of the largest recycled kimono stores, with an extensive layout[. In addition to the Mega Tansuya in Asakusa, Tansuya has about 40 stores around Tokyo.

5. Chicago (Harajuku)

Chicago is a chain store specializing in second-hand clothing. The store offers a wide range of items, primarily focusing on Japanese and American vintage clothing, as well as miscellaneous goods and European vintage. The product variety is extensive and reasonably priced. Additionally, it also sells a rich selection of traditional Japanese clothing, including kimono, yukata, and Japanese-style accessories, and is focused on offering kimono as "Real Japanese Vintage Clothing".  

In addition to Harajuku Chicago, you can also find the yukata you like at other second-hand clothing stores such as Mode Off and 2nd Street!

6. Yanaka Ginza (Yanaka)

Yanaka Ginza, located between Nippori Station and Sendagi Station, is a shopping street full of traditional downtown charm. The street stretches about 170 meters, with around 60 various shops lining both sides. Both within and outside the shopping street, there are many shops selling kimono, yukata, and related accessories. You can also find yukata in other shopping streets, such as Ameyoko or Nakamise. Why not visit these charming Japanese shopping streets and search for a yukata you like? 

7. Antiques Kimono Lily (Asakusa)

This is an antique shop that boasts a stunning collection of yukata, kimono, obi and other accessories. English-speaking staff are available to answer any questions that you may have about these Japanese traditional garments. The shop is located at a convenient location, and it is about a 5-minute walk from Asakusa's Kaminarimon.

8. Miyoshiya (Nakano)

Miyoshiya is now in its third generation of kimono business and has been selling second-hand kimono at antique markets since 1994. Their recycled kimono store in Nakano opened in 2019 and is located on the B1 floor of Nakano Broadway. The shop focuses on selling kimono, yukata, and obi, as well as haori and men’s kimono with a stock that varies depending on the season. As they have a large quantity of products, it is recommended to plan plenty of time at the shop to search for your favorite yukata. 

Be sure to set aside some time to explore Nakano Broadway too! This shopping complex is filled with small shops offering everything from retro goods, toys, collectibles, games, anime-related rarities.  

9. Ueno Fujikiya (Ueno)

When visiting other kimono and yukata stores, you will notice that women's styles are much more varied than men's. This issue was identified by Fujikiya’s founder, Fukijiya Mikisuke, when he was looking to purchase men's kimono, which led him to establish a store specializing in men's kimono.  In Ueno, besides the main Fujikiya Store, there is also a yukata specialty store called "Yukataya Wasobe". If you are looking to buy yukata in Ueno, be sure to visit these two stores, as both offer a wide variety of men's and women's yukata in different patterns. 

10. Department Stores

Department stores like OIOI, Mitsukoshi, Takashimaya, and Isetan hold yukata fairs every summer. During these events, various brands of yukata are displayed. Although the yukata’s prices at department stores can be higher, the advantage is their extensive variety and wide selection. You can find yukata in various sizes, including classic traditional patterns, the latest designs, and well-known brands. Besides yukata, you can also find accessories like obi, geta, kinchaku bags, fans, and hair ornaments there.

11. Flea Markets

Tokyo and its surrounding areas are home to dozens of flea markets, perfect for visitors looking for affordable yukata Each unique Tokyo flea market has its own distinct features. We recommend visiting Tokyo's largest flea market, the Ohi Racecourse Flea Market (Tokyo City Flea Market), the youthful Yoyogi Park Flea Market, and Japan's largest outdoor antique market, the Oedo Antique Market.

When purchasing a yukata at a flea market, be sure to carefully inspect the item and check the size, look for any tears, damage or stains.

12. Supermarkets

The advantage of supermarkets is that you can purchase affordable yukata. These stores usually operate on a low-margin, high-volume basis, so if you want to find cheap yukata, supermarkets like AEON are a great choice. The variety in these stores is no less than that of department stores, you can choose from a variety of new designs. Also, supermarkets often sell yukata sets with obi and geta, allowing you to get everything at once at a relatively affordable price. 

13. Online Stores

The advantage of online shops is that you can compare and consider yukata from multiple shops at your own pace from the comfort of your home. Unlike physical stores (except specialty shops), which often only sell yukata during the summer season, online shops allow you to purchase yukata all year round. Websites like Rakuten, Amazon Japan, Mercari, and Dita offer a wide variety of designs, colors, and materials, making it easy to find a yukata that suits your preferences. Additionally, some of these stores provide international shipping service, allowing you to receive your chosen yukata before arriving in Japan.

Do You Want to Rent a Yukata or Kimono?

If you want to experience wearing a yukata or kimono before purchasing one, it's recommended to rent one first! Kimono rental shops such as Kimono Miyabi also offer yukata rentals usually between June and the beginning of September, allowing customers to explore Tokyo’s traditionally rich neighborhood of Asakusa while wearing a yukata.

Kimono Miyabi offers a wide range of services, including kimono and yukata rentals along with hairstyling and makeup services. Multilingual staff are available to answer any questions that you may have while wearing these stunning traditional Japanese garments. The shop boasts a collection of over 1,000 kimono which can accommodate men, women, and children. Book your kimono rental service here to experience the beauty of wearing a kimono or yukata!

Buy Your Own Yukata in Tokyo

From traditional shops in Asakusa to trendy stores in Harajuku, Tokyo offers various options for purchasing yukata. We are sure that you can find your own yukata here, whether you prefer brand new designs, vintage finds or options at affordable prices at discount stores and second-hand shops! With this guide, you are well-equipped to navigate Tokyo's yukata shops and find the perfect summer garment to enhance your stay in Japan.