We are a small, web-based business offering authentic, vintage Japanese kimono wearables as well as apparel, accessories, and display items created from these textiles. We also offer bundles of salvaged kimono fabrics for artisans and crafters.

We take great care in the handling of these cultural treasures; we have great respect for the generations of artisans that brought them into the world; and we are happy to offer them to those who would like to add a bit of "Japanique" into their wardrobe, home decor, or arts and craft work.

One-of-a-kind vintage Japanese garments (kimono, haori, obi, and other unique wearables), fabric (shibori, yuzen, ikat, and more), and collectibles come to us from the temple markets and auction houses of Kyoto, Japan. From elegant wedding kimono and bridal party attire to unusual collectibles to the occasional antique boro, our inventory of original, imported textiles changes almost daily.

In our Japanique Boutique, you'll find modified kimono jackets and robes, Asian-accent décor items, jewelry, purses, pocket squares, and other wardrobe accessories - each created or up-cycled from vintage kimono or obi fabrics

We also offer general information, videos, and resource links about kimono, Kyoto, and Japan in our blog: KimonoMania.
Whether you're here to shop for a kimono or just to learn more about vintage Japanese textiles, we hope you find what you're looking for at Kyoto Kimono. Feel free to chat with us, email Nancy (the owner) or call us M-F, 9-5 EST (607.765.3960).

Nancy McDonough - Founder and Owner

It all began in 1992, when Nancy arrived in Kyoto to teach English and train other ESL teachers. She soon fell in love with Japanese textiles and by the time she returned to the US in 1995, she had accumulated over 200. After that, there was no turning back -- what started out as a hobby business became full time after the first year on the internet in 2000. Each vintage kimono is unique, offering its own expression of Japanese life and culture. They are truly wearable art. Nancy can be contacted directly at nancy@kyotokimono.com.

Madeline Byrne - Summer Intern, Social Media Marketing

Maddy started in June 2018 as a summer intern, bringing the much-needed youth perspective to our marketing projects. Her experience with Instagram, Facebook and other social media combined with her training in business management at Binghamton University is of great value to Kyoto Kimono. When she's not interning, she is managing a local pizza shop or developing her skill as a real estate agent. She's also perfect as a model for our new item photo shoots. She will no doubt be in demand when she graduates in 2019. Maddy can be reached at madeline@kyotokimono.com.

Cindy Crispell - Designer, Seamstress

Cindy learned to sew at the age of ten and has been offering her seamstress services for over twenty years. She also has a degree in Human Services and has devoted much of her adult life to the medical field. Cindy joined the Kyoto Kimono team in 2008 and works from her home studio in Owego, NY. As a designer, Cindy helped create and refine our Japanique Boutique line of accessories and gifts. Cindy brings an experienced eye and a creative touch to our scarves, tote bags, pocket squares, and many other items. Cindy is available for private sewing projects, especially those using vintage kimono and obi fabrics, and can be contacted directly at ccrispell2@stny.rr.com.