School Uniform Rental on Komachi-dori, Kamakura | Explore the Enoden Line and Seaside with Kamakura Hanka

Step Into a Japanese School Uniform and Head Out Into Kamakura

This experience is offered by Kamakura Hanka (鎌倉半夏), a shop on Komachi-dori. Its uniform rental was created so that visitors from overseas can easily get a taste of Japanese school life.

Alongside blazers, sailor uniforms and gakuran (boys' stand-collar school jackets), the shop stocks some rarer uniforms, including designs actually worn at Japanese schools. Pair them with HARUTA loafers, a school bag and more, and head out in a look that's all your own.

The shop is about a 5-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station. Once you've changed, you're free to explore at your own pace. Have a think beforehand about where you'd like to take photos, whether that's the streets along the Enoden line or the seaside.

First, Choose Your Uniform and Accessories in the Shop

When you arrive, you'll pick your design and size while looking at the actual uniforms. There's no need to decide on an outfit in advance, and if you can't make up your mind, the staff are happy to help you put a look together.

Your outfit depends on the plan you choose: a simple set built around a shirt and skirt or trousers, a full set with a jacket, a sailor uniform and more. In the colder months, there are also plans that include a knit vest or sweater.

Basic accessories such as HARUTA loafers, ribbons, ties and school bags are included in the rental price. Disposable socks are provided too, so have fun matching everything from your shoes to your accessories.

Next, Set Off Along the Enoden Line in Uniform

If you're not sure where to go, head for the Enoden line. You can pick the spots you'd like to stop at along the way, such as the Gokurakuji Station building or the slopes leading down to the sea.

Match ribbons in different colours with your friends, or go for a blazer and sailor uniform as a couple. Even on familiar streets, you'll come away with photos that look nothing like your usual holiday snaps.

Rentals are available on rainy days too, and you can borrow a clear umbrella for free. When taking photos, please choose spots where you won't block other people.

By the Sea, Take Uniform Photos With Friends and Family

For shots with the ocean as your backdrop, head to Shichirigahama or the area around Kamakura-Koko-Mae Station. Line up holding your school bags, exchange glances with friends, and try out different poses.

Everyone can wear the same uniform or go for completely different styles — it's up to you. Capture the day's outfits together with the sea views.

Add a Professional Photo Shoot to Capture Your Day in Kamakura

If you'd rather leave the photography to someone else, you can add a location shoot with a professional photographer. Since you can arrange everything from choosing your uniform to changing and the shoot itself at the same shop, it's easy to get photos with every friend or both of you in the frame.

Let them know the places you'd like to visit — Kamakura's streets, temples and shrines, or the Shonan coastline — and the mood you're after. You can also ask about shoots using props such as paper lanterns or fireworks.

If you'd like a sunset shoot, check in advance the available times and locations, conditions for using props, and how to return your uniform. The photography service is charged separately from the uniform rental.

FAQ

■ Can I choose the uniform style and size? Yes. There are multiple designs and sizes for both women and men, and you can choose in person after you arrive. If you're concerned about sizing, please contact the shop before booking.

■ Do accessories like shoes and bags cost extra? Basic accessories such as HARUTA loafers, ribbons, ties and school bags are included in the rental price. Disposable socks are also provided.

■ How long can I keep the uniform? As a rule, uniforms must be returned by 18:00 on the same day. Next-day return is available for an extra 1,000 yen. If you'd like this option, please check the return method and next-day return time with the shop.

■ Is professional photography included in the price? No. Professional location photography is an add-on service. Please check the details of your chosen plan for shoot duration, locations, pricing and how you'll receive your photos.

■ Can I use the service on rainy days? Yes. The service runs as usual on rainy days, and clear umbrellas are lent free of charge.

■ Do I need to choose my outfit in advance? No. You can choose after you arrive. You can also ask about changing your plan on the day if you wish; please confirm the changes and any price difference at the shop.

■ Where is the shop, and what languages are supported? The shop is on the 2nd floor of Unit D, Rokken Nagaya, 2-7-11 Komachi, Kamakura, Kanagawa, about a 5-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station. Assistance is available in Japanese, English and Chinese.

Things to Check Before Booking

• Your preferred uniform plan, and your clothing and shoe sizes
• Your arrival time, and plans to return by 18:00 on the same day
• The extra fee and return method if you'd like next-day return
• The details and price of a professional shoot, if adding one
• Travel time and transport costs to the places you plan to explore
• The cancellation policy for the plan you book

Prices, plan details and return conditions are subject to change, so please check the latest information before booking.

Summary

Pick your favourite uniform, add a ribbon and a school bag, and head out into Kamakura. Stroll along the Enoden line or snap photos with friends against the sea for a day that's a little different from your usual trip.

If you're happy taking casual photos yourselves, go for the uniform rental; if you want great shots with everyone in them, add a professional shoot. Talk about the kinds of photos you'd like to take as you plan your day in Kamakura.

As well as uniforms, Kamakura Hanka offers kimono rental and location photography. Kimono options include komon, lace kimono, homongi and furisode, and women's kimono plans include dressing, hair styling and traditional accessories. You can see outfits and sample photos on the official Instagram account, @kamakurahanka.