There are limited opportunities to wear a yukata. Although more shops handle yukatas in the summer, many are seasonal and do not carry them outside of summer, making it often impossible to buy one. If you have bought a yukata even once before, you can choose the same place as last time, but many people buying a yukata for the first time may not even know where they are sold. Here, we introduce where you can buy a yukata, along with the advantages and disadvantages of each location.
>>Recommended article: Yukata rentals at Gion Matsuri in Kyoto with wargo
Department Stores
Advantages
Department stores, as the name suggests, have everything. Often called "depato" in Japanese, they have traditionally sold yukatas in their event spaces as summer approaches, and various brands also display yukatas in stores. The advantage of department stores is, above all, their wide selection. They carry many ready-made yukatas in various sizes, and the designs range from traditional classic patterns and Japanese patterns to the latest designs, with even famous brands selling yukatas in the summer. There are popular yukata brands, and although the prices are somewhat higher, yukatas designed by specific designers are also popular.
When selling yukatas, campaigns and events are also held, so special perks may be included. If a traditional kimono shop is located inside, it is also possible to have one custom-made from a bolt of fabric rather than buying ready-made. You can get almost all the small accessories as well, not just the yukata, but also obi sashes, geta sandals, kinchaku drawstring bags, folding fans, and hair ornaments.
Disadvantages
Because department stores select items with a focus on quality, they rarely handle cheap, poorly made items. Although they do handle reasonably priced items in their event spaces, even the cheaper ones cost around 10,000 yen per set. Brand-name items are slightly more expensive, ranging from 30,000 yen to 50,000 yen per set. Since wearing a yukata also requires an obi and geta, gathering those as well will cost even more. Being able to choose good items is an advantage, but the prices are a bit on the higher side. This may not be suitable for people who want a budget-friendly yukata that they can wear casually.
Large Mass Retailers Like AEON
Advantages
The advantage of large mass retailers is that you can get budget-friendly yukatas. Since they basically operate on a thin-margin, high-volume sales philosophy, large mass retailers like AEON are recommended if you want to find an inexpensive yukata. Their selection is just as rich as that of department stores, and since they often sell sets that include an obi and geta, it is a clear advantage that you can get everything at once at an affordable price. Sets start at around 5,000 yen, and they often offer several price tiers, such as 7,000 yen or 10,000 yen.
Because accessories that are useful for wearing a yukata, such as yukata undergarments and koshihimo waist cords, are often sold as a set, this is recommended for people who want to easily enjoy a yukata. A wide selection including children's and men's sizes is another feature. It is likely convenient for people who want to go shopping for yukatas as a family.
Disadvantages
Although they are inexpensive and come in a variety of types, people who emphasize quality might find them a bit underwhelming. While they certainly do not sell shoddy goods, many of the fabrics are made of polyester, and depending on the person, they might look a bit cheap. The selection is abundant, but if the items are packaged in pre-made sets, you cannot try them on. This may feel inconvenient for people who want to try on a yukata to check its size and the impression it gives when worn. While set items are a great deal, if you already own geta and an obi and just want a yukata to match them, although individual yukatas are handled, most items are sets, which limits your choices.
Fast Fashion Shops Like UNIQLO
Advantages
Fast fashion shops, which are attractive for their budget-friendly prices, also sell yukatas in the summer. The variety is reasonably rich, and they often have set sales as well. The advantage is that you can purchase a yukata at a very affordable price, cheaper than anywhere else. Rather than traditional classics, they tend to feature stylish designs incorporating current trends. Since you can also get accessories to match the yukata, it is perfect for people looking for a budget-friendly yukata they can wear casually.
Disadvantages
Although they are budget-friendly and reasonably varied, it is hard to deny a slight sense of "you get what you pay for." This is unsuitable for people who want to choose a high-end yukata with a focus on quality. Women's yukatas can have their length adjusted, so free-size items are generally not a problem, but since they are made based on standard body types, some people may find that they do not fit their bodies. Having limited sizes is a disadvantage. Because there is a tendency to prioritize quantity over quality, comfort also tends to take a back seat. Poor comfort or a poor fit for the body are frequent drawbacks.
While the ease of purchase is an advantage, they stock plenty of the exact same designs. At fast fashion shops with stores nationwide like UNIQLO, many people purchase the exact same design of yukata. If you live in the same area, the possibility of encountering someone wearing the exact same yukata at a summer festival or fireworks display cannot be denied. For people who dislike matching others, this is likely a disadvantage.
Specialty Stores
Advantages
Because they specialize in yukatas, they have staff who know everything about yukatas. Even if it is your first time and you do not understand anything, you can choose while consulting with them, allowing you to find a yukata you are satisfied with. While they tend to have many traditional Japanese patterns and classic patterns, some shops handle original design yukatas. They are also particular about quality, and custom-made yukatas tailored from a bolt of fabric are possible.
Although customer service and services vary by shop, it is also possible to take measurements so that even ready-made items fit your body and choose accordingly. If you do not know how to wear one, they can teach you, and if you make a reservation, they can also dress you. While it cannot be said that they never have set sales, they also have a rich assortment of accessories so you can coordinate according to your yukata.
Disadvantages
You can leave things to specialty stores with peace of mind, but because they handle high-quality items, the prices are slightly higher. They also handle reasonably priced yukatas, but compared to large mass retailers and the like, you will feel they are quite expensive. Quality is guaranteed and you can choose the design, but this might be unsuitable when you want to look for a pop yukata incorporating current trends. Specialty stores do release new items, but trends tend to take a back seat. Unfortunately, this will likely be unsuitable for people who want a yukata incorporating cutting-edge trends or people who want to wear a yukata casually at an affordable price.
Online Shopping
Advantages
When you go to a physical store to buy a yukata, you might find it annoying when sales clerks talk to you or persistently push designs that do not match your preferences. Even when you have not yet decided whether to buy but just want to check what kind of designs are available, being persistently followed around by a clerk can make it hard to refuse, leading to regrets after buying. When you want to calmly and quietly evaluate items, visiting a store can often feel bothersome, but with online shopping, clerks will not talk to you, nor will they push designs you do not like.
The advantage is that you can thoroughly search various sites until you are satisfied. Even busy people who do not have time to go shopping at a store can look at sites at their own convenience and choose their favorite yukata. It is also convenient that once ordered, items are delivered right to your home.
Disadvantages
With online shopping, you cannot check the actual item until it arrives. Since you decide based on images, the impression might be different once it arrives. Some places do not accept returns or exchanges for customer convenience, so you cannot return items simply because you dislike them. In the event of trouble, communication via email may not always result in a prompt response.
Conclusion
Prices and designs of yukatas vary depending on where you purchase them. Since there are several choices, it is recommended to figure out what is best for you and make your purchase.
This time, we introduced places to buy a yukata, but
for those who think, "I want to wear a different yukata every year!" or "Gathering accessories and dressing up is a hassle,"
yukata rentals are also recommended.
With a yukata rental, you can casually and reasonably wear a yukata that perfectly suits you, depending on the occasion and your mood of the day.
Rentals at a wargo storefront
come at a set price that includes dressing, hair styling, and all other accessories,
so please feel free to come and rent one. Delivery services are also available!
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