As sakura gracefully fall into flowing rivers and more and more people put on masks to fight off the spell of hay-fever, Japan is reminded that a muggy but very exciting summer season is starting to peek out from around the corner. While there are loads of ways to live out the summer to the fullest in Japan, there is probably no more emblematic way of celebrating in Japan than soaking in all the fun of a summer festival (夏祭り, natsu matsuri). At a summer festival in Japan, you can enjoy fireworks shows, vendors selling delicious festival food and drink, and of course a wonderful festive atmosphere--and if you want to really go all out, then it's best to put on your summer yukata or kimono. Fortunately a Tokyo-based kimono specialty shop has released a unique Spring and Summer kimono/yukata collection that'll have you looking spot-on for a festival, without seeming overdressed.

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Source: PR Times

Y.&SONS, who just opened up a kimono specialty shop in Kanda, Tokyo, last year, are releasing a line of kimono and yukata tailor-made for the swing of summer, rolling out designs that range from traditional Japanese wear to some more bolder prints featuring hawks, bonito, and wild geese. While you can grab a yukata for the summer anywhere, Y.&SONS is offering kimono made especially for the summer, which are not typically seen in traditional kimono shops. Notable about these kimono are that while they maintain the traditional style guaranteed by a kimono-specialty shop, they also offer free-range when it comes to coordination.

Netted blue and white yukata

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Wild Japanese geese Yukata

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Bonito Yukata

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Hawk Yukata

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Yukata without any animal designs are also available, for those going for a more understated look.

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After the yukata come the summer kimono, which as you can see, are both refined enough to pull off a traditional look and casual enough to mesh well with sneakers and Western clothing.

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Those interested in the line can take a look at the online shop, so check out the Kanda location at the address below. Each kimono and yukata is priced differently, but the price tags start at 29,000 yen ($USD 269.20).

2-17-2, Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0021 11:00—20:00/CLOSED WEDNESDAY


By - grape Japan editorial staff.