Where to buy a yukata without breaking the bank in Tokyo?
Young girls in yukata
Ant le Breton
The yukata, Japan's emblematic summer garment, has become a staple of summer festivals and fireworks viewing parties. But in Tokyo, where prices are generally higher than in the rest of the country, buying a complete yukata can quickly become expensive. Between the yukata itself, the accompanying obi, and the accessories, the budget can quickly balloon. Fortunately, there are several options for buying affordable yukata in the Japanese capital. Let's discover together the best tips for buying a yukata without breaking the bank in Tokyo, whether you're a resident or a tourist looking for an authentically Japanese sartorial experience.
Cost-effective options for buying a yukata in Tokyo
For those wishing to purchase a yukata without blowing their budget, Tokyo offers several interesting possibilities. Yukata rental is a popular option, with rates starting at 3,000 yen per day (around 23 euros). It's a great way to discover the wearing of this traditional garment without a long-term investment. Ideal for a visit to the temple or a matsuri evening, rental is less economical if you plan to wear the yukata several times.
Buying second-hand yukata is another interesting alternative. Thrift stores such as Chicago and ModeOff, located throughout the capital, offer a wide selection of yukata at very affordable prices every summer. These second-hand stores are perfect for fashionistas wishing to put together their own outfit at a lower cost.
Major retailers and supermarkets offering yukata at low prices
Major retailers and supermarkets are the place to go for discount yukata. Stores such as Don Quijote and Uniqlo offer complete yukata sets (yukata + obi + geta) at prices ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 yen (between 23 and 46 euros). These "all-inclusive" sets are particularly popular for their value for money.
Supermarkets such as Aeon, Ito-Yokado and Daie also offer complete yukata for under 3,000 yen. However, it's important to note that these sets are often produced in limited quantities and only sold from May to June in the larger supermarkets. It is therefore advisable to take advantage of these attractive offers well in advance.
A Don Quijote store offering low-priced clothing
ThomasJohnson
Second-hand and thrift stores specializing in yukata
Second-hand stores are veritable goldmines for finding yukata at low prices. Every year, stores like Chicago and ModeOff create a special "yukata" section in the run-up to summer. You'll find vintage or almost-new models, patterned or plain, at very affordable prices.
To find the best bargains, don't hesitate to explore neighborhoods like Shimokitazawa, Tokyo's hipster district, accessible via the Keio-Inokashira line. Koenji, to the west of the city (JR Chuo line), is another must for lovers of second-hand clothes and bargains on yukata.
Shimokitazawa by day
Flick-eerkmans
Second-hand yukata at flea markets and brocantes
Flea markets are the place to go for good deals on yukata in Tokyo. Popular with Tokyoites on sunny weekends, these markets often offer yukata and obi for under 1,000 yen (around 7.84 euros).
Among the most famous textile markets are :
- Yoyogi Park Market
- Oedo Antique Market flea market
- Oi Keibajo flea market in Shinagawa
- Ikebukuro Station West Exit Flea Market (JR Yamanote line)
These markets are the ideal opportunity for bargain hunters to unearth unique items at rock-bottom prices.
You can also find kimonos and yukatas at flea markets
Japantravel
Kimono boutiques offering yukata at reduced prices
Contrary to popular belief, some kimono boutiques also offer yukata at affordable prices. Shops like Tansuya, which can be found all over the capital, sometimes offer low-priced returns.
In Harajuku, the Sakaeya store (accessible via the JR Yamanote line) occasionally offers yukata for just 1,000 yen (7.84 euros). Similarly, Wataro in Itabashi (Saikyo line) sells fabrics for under 3,000 yen (23 euros), perfect for making your own yukata.
Kimono store in Tokyo
Wikimedia
Yukata rental: an interesting alternative for tourists
For tourists visiting Tokyo, yukata rental can be a very interesting option. With rates starting at 3,000 yen a day (around 23 euros), it's an excellent way to experience yukata without long-term investment.
Many stores offer this service, particularly in tourist areas such as Shimokitazawa and Asakusa. Some even offer packages including hair and make-up, for a complete immersion in Japanese culture. This is an ideal option for those who want to wear a yukata for a temple visit or an evening festival, without worrying about care or storage.
Tips for buying inexpensive yukata in Tokyo
To conclude, here are a few more tips for buying yukata at a good price in Tokyo:
- Anticipate your purchases: the month of June is ideal for making the best bargains, whether in supermarkets or online.
- Explore online shopping: sites like Rakuten offer a wide variety of yukata at the start of summer, often at bargain prices.
- Visit 100 yen shops: these discount stores can sometimes carry yukata accessories at very low prices.
- Don 't hesitate to bargain at flea markets, as this is a common practice.
- For lovers of Japanese textiles, consider buying items made from kimono or yukata fabrics, such as those offered by independent store Monoya Tokyo.
By following these tips and exploring the various options presented, you should be able to find the perfect yukata at an affordable price, allowing you to fully enjoy Japanese summer traditions without breaking the bank.
