Kimono & Hair Makeover at Nezu Shrine, Tokyo — A Real Japanese Experience
Walking through a tunnel of vermilion torii gates, wearing a green kimono with a red wagasa (Japanese parasol) in hand — this is the kind of moment that stays with you long after you leave Tokyo.
This is a story from one of our recent guests. And it can be yours, too. For a full overview of what’s included, see our guide to the Kimono Makeover Experience in Tokyo.
From Our Private Salon to Nezu Shrine
She visited us at Biyodo, our private hair and makeup salon in Nishinippori, Tokyo. She had one wish: to experience Japan in the most authentic way possible — dressed in a beautiful kimono, with hair and makeup done by professional artists.
At Biyodo, our two professional artists — Miwa and Nana — welcomed her and got to work. Miwa handled the hair, while Nana took care of the makeup. Together, they bring years of experience working with clients for photoshoots, events, and traditional Japanese occasions.
First, the hair. Miwa crafted a traditional Japanese updo that framed her features beautifully — elegant, polished, and perfectly suited for a kimono. Then Nana took over with the makeup: defined contouring, a sharp and striking eye look that commanded attention, and a bold finish that felt powerful yet timeless.
The transformation took about 90 minutes. When she looked in the mirror, she smiled and said, “I really like this style!!”
Dressing in Kimono
Next came the kimono. Miwa helped her into a deep green silk kimono — the color of spring moss, rich and lustrous. The obi was tied in a modern style, giving the look a fresh, contemporary feel while honoring the traditional form.
The combination of deep green and vivid red suited her beautifully — elegant, striking, and full of presence. It was the perfect look for a day at the shrine.
Nezu Shrine — A Hidden Garden in the Heart of Tokyo
Nezu Shrine is one of Tokyo’s oldest Shinto shrines — and one of its most beautiful secrets. Rows of vermilion torii gates line a stone path through a quiet forest garden, bathed in the fresh, clear light after the rain. It feels like a different world, hidden just minutes from the city streets.
About 10 minutes by taxi from our salon, in the neighboring Bunkyo ward.
Please note that photography rules can vary by location. Casual personal photos are usually welcome at shrines and temples in Japan, but professional or commercial photography — including location photoshoots arranged through Biyodo — may require advance permission from the site. Special outings like this one are arranged in advance and subject to availability.
What’s Included in the Kimono Experience
At Biyodo, we offer several plans depending on what you’re looking for:
| Plan | Price (tax incl.) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Hair & Makeup only | ¥22,000 | 90 min |
| Hair & Makeup + Kimono Experience | ¥33,000 | Approx. 2 hrs, including kimono rental |
| + In-salon Photography | ¥38,500 | — |
| + Yanaka Location Photoshoot | ¥49,500 | — |
| Kimono postal return (optional) | ¥5,500 | — |
All plans include:
- Full hair styling by our professional hair artist
- Makeup by our professional makeup artist, tailored to your features and the kimono color
- Kimono fitting and dressing in our private salon
- English-speaking service ✓
Where We Are
Our salon is located in Nishinippori, Arakawa, Tokyo — a quiet neighborhood next to the historic Yanaka district. It’s one of the few areas in Tokyo that still feels like old Japan, with narrow streets, old temples, and local shotengai (shopping streets).
📍 2-7-3 Kobayashiko-po 301, Nishinippori, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo
🚉 6 min walk from Nishi-Nippori Station / 8 min from Nippori Station
⏰ Open from 9:00 AM
Ready to Try?
Whether you want a simple hair and makeup session, a full kimono experience, or an optional Yanaka Location Photoshoot — we’d love to welcome you at Biyodo.
Reservations required. We accommodate up to 2 guests at a time for a truly private, relaxed experience.
📧 tayori@biyodocorp.com ｜ 💬 WhatsApp / LINE
See more real Kimono Makeover looks on Instagram @kimono.makeover.tokyo.
All photos in this article were taken with the model’s full consent. Hair by Miwa, Makeup by Nana / Biyodo.