Taking its inspiration from the yukata, or the traditional Japanese summer kimono, The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is offering guests the chance to experience the city as a local with a customized fitting and yukata rental. The Kyoto Summer Experience allows guests to not only learn about this culturally significant garment, but to wear one while enjoying the sights, sounds, and experiences of summer in Japan.
As the weather warms in Kyoto, Japans cultural and spiritual heart, residents don their finest yukata to enjoy summer festivals and time spent outdoors at one of the citys many kawa-yuka, restaurant balconies which overlook the river. In order to take part in this local experience, guests of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto will have the chance to consult with a yukata advisor who can personally fit them for a garment and assist them in wearing the authentic dressing for the day. Strolling through the destinations magnificent temples, shrines, and gardens, or visits to off-the-beaten-path restaurants take on a new dimension when dressed as a local. Expanding on the idea of walking in another man’s shoes, this unique experience allows guests a window into local life and a time-honored tradition. In order to properly remember their time in Kyoto, the ladies and gentlemen at the property will take a photo of guests in their yukata and frame it for them to take home at the end of their trip.
Expanding on the idea of walking in another man’s shoes, this unique experience allows guests a window into local life and a time-honored tradition.
From the moment guests arrive at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto, they are truly immersed in Kyoto’s rich history and culture. The resort’s design combines tradition with modern luxury while more than 409 individual works of art interpret the delicate, graceful sentiment of the classic Japanese novel, The Tale of Genji. Completing the yukata outfit, guests will also receive a special uchiwa or original fan as an in-room amenity.
For those guests wanting a truly traditional tour of Kyoto, The Ritz-Carlton can also assist in arranging the rental of a jinrikishaman rickshaw to squire them about the city, even while wearing their yukata. The Dressed in a Traditional Yukata Kyoto Summer Experience is available for stays on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays between June 26 and August 31, 2015.