Yukata Experience in Izu

Staying at an old onsen hotel in Izu with two meals included and changing into a Japanese yukata was the part of my trip I was looking forward to the most. 👘 At the hotel we checked in to, we could choose our yukata style as soon as we entered. There were many options, and I personally prefer brightly colored, large floral patterns. 👘 Yukata, called *yukata* in Japanese, is a type of kimono, but it's a little different from traditional kimono. They are mostly worn in casual settings, such as fireworks displays and summer festivals, and can also be worn as pajamas or after bathing. 👘 How to distinguish between traditional kimono and yukata? The main differences are the collar and socks. Kimono collars are double-layered, and socks are required. Yukata have only one layer and are generally worn barefoot. 👘 The correct way to wear a yukata: 1️⃣ Put your hands through the yukata sleeves and bring the right side of the yukata close to your body. 2️⃣ Then, cover it with the left side. Left over right is the correct way to wear it! 🚫 Do not wear it the other way around, as this is reserved for funerals. 3️⃣ Secure the yukata with a belt. Women tie it at the waist or slightly higher, while men tie it at the abdomen or slightly lower.