The Deadly Mistake Tourists Make When Wearing a Kimono (Left or Right?)

Last updated: March 20, 2026

The Tourist Trap
Renting a beautiful Kimono or Yukata to walk around Kyoto is a dream for many tourists. Sometimes, tourists buy a cheap Yukata and try to put it on themselves in their hotel room. But beware: if you fold the fabric the wrong way, you might horrify the locals!

The Curse of “Left-Over-Right”
When wrapping the kimono around your body, you must ALWAYS bring the left side over the right side (so you can slip your right hand into the fold). If you do it the opposite way—bringing the right side over the left—you have just dressed yourself as a corpse!

The Funeral Dress
Why is this a deadly mistake? In Japanese Buddhist funerals, the deceased is dressed in a white kimono with the right side crossed over the left (called Kyokatabira). In the world of the living, things are done one way. In the world of the dead, things are done in reverse.

Walking Ghost
If you walk down the street with your kimono crossed the “dead way,” Japanese people will be deeply uncomfortable. It looks like a ghost has escaped from a funeral and is wandering around eating matcha ice cream! It is a massive cultural taboo.

Leave It to the Pros
To remember the correct way, just think: “The Left side is the Last to cross.” Or better yet, don’t try to put it on yourself. Professional Kimono dressers (Kitsuke) will ensure you look stunning, elegant, and most importantly—alive!

The World of Authentic Kimonos (Related Articles)
Learning how to fold your casual Yukata correctly is crucial, but what about real, formal kimonos? In Japan, traditional clothing is treated with incredible respect, whether it is worn by humans or beautiful dolls!

1. The Ancient Court Kimonos
If you visit a Japanese home with a daughter around March 3rd, you will see a spectacular 7-tiered display of elaborate dolls dressed in ancient court kimonos. These are not Barbie dolls; they are family heirlooms that can cost up to $10,000 and are displayed to protect the girl from bad luck.
👉 Why do mothers rush to pack them away?
Check out: “Why Do Japanese Families Hide These Beautiful Dolls Immediately? (The ‘Hina Matsuri’ Mystery)”

Why Do Japanese Families Hide These Beautiful Dolls Immediately? (The “Hina Matsuri” Mystery)

2. The Price of a Luxury Car
As we mentioned, you should leave dressing to the professionals, especially when dealing with authentic, high-end silk Kimonos! Unlike cheap rented costumes, a real Kimono is a wearable museum piece crafted by artisans that can easily cost $10,000 to $50,000—literally the price of a luxury car!
👉 Why is it so expensive and impossible to put on alone?
Check out: “Why Do Authentic Kimonos Cost as Much as a Car? (The Masterpiece You Can Wear)”

Why Do Authentic Kimonos Cost as Much as a Car? (The Masterpiece You Can Wear)

LEARN MORE JAPAN Fun Facts

HOME

Pick Up

Latest Articles

BACK TO HOME