“My dream came true, and I am so incredibly happy.”
To the journey these two have walked over the past year, and to the bright future that lies ahead—Cheers!
Hello! I am Misa Endo& Luna Kodaira the of Nikko Kimono Rental COCON NIKKO.
The year 2026 has begun. New Year’s in Nikko is wrapped in a crisp, cold air, yet filled with a warm energy as visitors bring their “hopes” and “prayers” for the first shrine visit of the year.
Amidst this, we met a couple whose story touched our hearts deeply and gently. They traveled all the way from the far northern lands of Aomori Prefecture. Today, I’d like to share their anniversary story—a tale of love that overcame the barrier of long-distance to fulfill a “special dream” here in Nikko.
Chapter 1: The Story — A Bond Spanning 400km Between Aomori and Tochigi
Both of them are originally from the snowy prefecture of Aomori. They grew up looking at the same landscapes, but as fate—or perhaps a test of their bond—would have it, the boyfriend was transferred to Tochigi Prefecture for work.
1. Distance as the “Spice” of Love
Thus began their long-distance relationship. While she worked hard at a restaurant in Aomori, he was busy building his new life here in Tochigi. Living apart isn’t easy. Their days were connected through “Good morning” and “Good night” exchanged over smartphone screens. They say distance makes the heart grow fonder, but for their big anniversary, their heartfelt wish was simple: to be in the same place, laughing side-by-side.
2. Third Time’s a Charm: Their First Nikko Trip
This was her third visit to Tochigi, but her very first time stepping into the world-renowned heritage town of Nikko. A small dream had been living in her heart: “One day, I want to walk through Toshogu Shrine in a kimono with him…”
With her stay limited until January 1st, their visit perfectly aligned with a “double anniversary”—her birthday and their first year as a couple.
Chapter 2: The Choice — Choosing the “Anniversary Plan”
When booking, they hesitated between the “Couple Plan” and the more luxurious “Anniversary Plan.” They had been planning this Nikko date for a year, discussing over the phone: “It’s our anniversary and birthday… but is it too much of a splurge?”
What settled the debate was the boyfriend’s gallant decision: “Since it’s a special celebration, I want to give her the best memory possible.”
What is the COCON NIKKO Anniversary Plan?
It is more than just a rental; it is a premium selection designed to make the day a lifelong treasure. She chose the “Homongi”—a high-ranking, formal kimono that is more prestigious than the standard “Komon.” This choice elevated their day into something truly grand.
Chapter 3: Style Details — A Radiant Lady and Her Steadfast Partner
The moment they stood before the mirror after dressing, a collective “Wow!” escaped from our staff.
The Bride-to-be: The Magic of the Radiant Pale Orange Homongi
The “Pale Orange” Homongi she chose was breathtakingly perfect for her.
- The Color: More energetic than pink, yet softer than yellow. This “Coral Orange” tone complemented her skin beautifully, making her face light up like a flower in bloom.
- The Design: The seasonal flowers depicted in gentle gradients were perfect for a couple celebrating the “harvest” of their first year. It combined “cuteness” with the “elegance” of a mature woman.
The Groom-to-be: Sophisticated Brown Haori & Hakama
Escorting her was the boyfriend in a dignified “Brown” Haori and Hakama.
- A Sophisticated Image: The deep brown perfectly matched his tall, model-like stature. It felt warmer than gray and gentler than black, symbolizing his protective embrace of his long-distance partner.
- The Contrast: A refined look that didn’t overpower, but rather highlighted her vibrant orange. Together, they formed a perfect contrast that blended seamlessly into the retro streets of Nikko.
Chapter 4: The Itinerary — Toshogu Shrine and the Tastes of Nikko
Their day began long before they arrived at our shop.
1. The Long-Awaited Toshogu Shrine
They visited the shrine in the morning, offering gratitude for their first year and praying for their future happiness. Charged with the sacred power of Nikko, they then came to COCON NIKKO to transform into their kimono attire.
2. Warming the Heart with Nikko Gourmet
For lunch, they enjoyed “Yuba Udon” (tofu skin noodles), a Nikko staple, followed by a “Matcha Crepe” for dessert! The warmth of the Yuba and the sweet time shared over a crepe made the distance between Aomori and Tochigi feel like zero.
Chapter 5: The Message — A Dream Realized
When they returned from their stroll, their faces were even more radiant than in the morning. They left us with these beautiful words:
“Thank you so much for today! My dream came true, and I’ve made the happiest memories! Thank you!”
Hearing this, all our fatigue vanished. Seeing her dream and his wish unite at COCON NIKKO is the ultimate reason we do what we do.
Chapter 6: Reflection — Weaving a Future Beyond the Distance
Though they return to their separate lives in Aomori and Tochigi on January 1st, the photos they took are not just images. They are powerful charms that say, “We shared this beautiful time, so we will be okay.” We imagine them one day sharing these photos with their future children, telling the story of the day “Mom and Dad wore beautiful kimonos in Nikko.”
Closing: COCON NIKKO is Your “Home”
Happy Birthday and Happy 1st Anniversary! It was an honor to add color to your love story. A kimono experience is not just “dress-up”—it is a ritual to mark life’s milestones. Please come back for your 2nd or 3rd anniversary. We will be here with even better hospitality.
May your future be as warm and bright as that orange kimono!
Happy Birthday & Happy 1st Anniversary!
Misa Endo, Manager of COCON NIKKO
To Everyone Dreaming of a Special Anniversary Date
Nikko Kimono Rental COCON NIKKO
- Website: https://kimono-cocon.com/
- Anniversary Plan: Elevate your experience with Homongi and Hakama.
- Professional Styling: We coordinate based on your skin tone and vision.
- Local Guide: We’ll share the best photo spots and lunch secrets.
Next, why not start your story in Nikko?
Located just 5 minutes from Tobu Nikko Station. We provide everything you need for a “hands-free” experience. Let us help you discover a new side of yourself and create an irreplaceable memory.
Kimono Rental in the World Heritage City of Nikko
Kimono Rental COCON NIKKO
425-1 Ishiya-machi, Nikko City, Tochigi 321-1405
TEL：+81-288-25-6625
Hours：9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Closed Wednesdays
By Train:
- 5 min walk from Tobu-Nikko Station
- 8 min walk from JR Nikko Station
By Car:
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