When and How to Wear “Yukata” at Japanese Inns and Hot Spring Hotels

During a recent domestic trip with a client, we stayed at a Japanese-style hot spring hotel. Many foreign visitors were also staying there.At these traditional inns, a yukata is usually placed in the guest room. It’s a great chance for visitors to enjoy Japanese culture in a simple way!

However, I noticed that one foreign guest was wearing their yukata in the wrong way.So today, I would like to explain how to wear a yukata correctly.Please use this as a reference when you stay at a Japanese inn or hot spring resort.

What is a Yukata? When Do You Wear It?🤔

A yukata is a light cotton kimono with good breathability, often worn in summer.

At inns, people usually wear it:

• after taking a bath

• as relaxing room wear

• as sleepwear

You can think of it like a bathrobe or comfortable nightwear💡

a yukata is usually placed in the guest room.

How to Wear a Yukata (Simple Steps)👘

1. Put it on like a bathrobe.

2. Wrap the right side of the yukata to your left hip.

3. Then wrap the left side over the right side.

   • This is very important!

4. Hold the yukata in place and position the middle of the belt (obi) around your belly button.

5. Bring the belt around your back, cross it once, and tie it in the front.

For Women

• A simple bow knot looks cute.

• The bow can be in the front or the back.

• The length should show your ankles. If it’s too long, fold and tuck the extra fabric at the waist (called ohashori).

• The collar should be slightly closed—just enough to show a small dip at the base of the neck.

  
  

For Men

• Tie the belt lower, around the hip bones.

  
  

☑️Correct Appearance

From the front, the left panel should always be on top of the right, forming a “Y” shape.

This is the correct way for living people.

Sorry for the unclear photo。。。but Im wearing Yukata!!

⚠️ Why You Must Never Wear It the Other Way⚠️

In Japan, the wrong way—right over left—is used only for the clothing of the deceased at funerals.

So please be careful not to reverse the sides!

When I saw the foreign guest wearing it the opposite way, I kindly said, “Excuse me, it’s actually the other side on top!”

👍Helpful English Guide with Illustrations

This site has a clear explanation in English with illustrations.

It may be helpful for first-time visitors:

(From: Toyooka City Official Tourism Website)

https://visitkinosaki.com/plan/visitor-info/guides/yukata/　　

Reading the website made me want to visit the Toyooka area myself!

Have a nice trip!💗