📜 Content
The Ashikaga District Study and Learning Center opened in March 2003, where you can learn about the history, culture, and nature of Ashikaga. The first floor of the building provides travel information necessary for the Ashikaga area, and you can freely pick up brochures and travel maps related to Ashikaga's traditional textile industries. There is also a spacious and comfortable resting area inside, which is highly recommended if you need to take a break after walking around.
The Ashikaga District Study and Learning Center serves as a tourism base for Ashikaga, so be sure to gather various travel information here before exploring!
The second floor of the learning center offers kimono and armor rental services, and staff will assist you in getting dressed, so it's perfectly fine to come empty-handed. The kimono experience is particularly recommended because you can choose to wear a kimono made from the traditional textile "Ashikaga Meisen," which is very famous in Japan. Meisen refers to a type of silk fabric that emerged in the first half of the 20th century, characterized by modern colors and novel patterns, attracting Japanese women of that time. Due to its reasonable price, it quickly became popular among young women. Even today, it remains a favored choice for women's kimonos representing a retro vibe. Here, you can not only choose your favorite style from a variety of colorful kimonos but also select accessories such as obi (belts) and obijime (decorative cords), experiencing the joy of wearing a kimono that is uniquely yours.
Strolling through the historic town in a kimono feels like stepping back in time!
The kimono experience package is quite comprehensive, offering not only women's kimonos but also armor, men's kimonos, and children's kimonos to choose from, making it even more enjoyable for the whole family! In the summer, yukata (summer kimono) is also available. As for the dressing time, it takes about 20 minutes for kimonos or armor, and around 10 minutes for yukata. Please inquire with the staff about the rental service fees and duration.
It is recommended to also visit the nearby Japanese heritage site, Bannaji Temple.
Be sure to wear your kimono when visiting the nearby Japanese heritage sites, Bannaji Temple and Ashikaga School!