About Stasia Matsumoto, the founder of INKIMONO:

I am a professionally trained and licensed kimono stylist and photographer based in Asakusa, Tokyo. Through INKIMONO, I bring these two disciplines together to create personalized kimono styling and professional portrait photography.

The idea for INKIMONO was born in 2018. I wanted to create something that went beyond a standard kimono rental: an experience where the kimono itself, the styling, the photography and the person wearing it could all become part of one carefully considered story.

I have photographed over 1,000 portrait sessions.

My background:

I began my photography career in 2016, working in portraiture and street photography before developing a particular interest in photographing people in kimono and natural light. My work has included a photography campaign with KIRIN Australia and work as a behind-the-scenes photographer for GirlGaze, among others.

Over the years, I have developed a photography style that I would describe as dreamy, dramatic and romantic. I work primarily with natural light and take great pride in creating portraits that feel atmospheric, expressive and personal rather than simply documenting what someone is wearing.

My interest in kimono began in 2017, when I started studying at Aoyama Kimono Gakuin. In 2019, I obtained my professional kimono consultant and stylist licence, and in February 2022 I completed the advanced professional qualification 一級講師.

I am also trained in kimono hairstyling, which allows me to create a complete look for each client as part of the styling process. In addition, I have trained in wheelchair kimono kitsuke, including casual, formal, furisode and hakama dressing.

What makes INKIMONO different:

At INKIMONO I want you to understand what you are wearing and why it was chosen for you.

I personally select your kimono, obi and accessories based on your personal style, preferences, the season and the occasion. During the styling process, I also explain the type of kimono you are wearing, its patterns and motifs, their meanings, and the level of formality.

I work with an extensive collection of authentic kimono and traditional Japanese garments, including many vintage and one-of-a-kind pieces.

I do not repeat outfit combinations. Every client receives a look created specifically for them.

The result is not just a set of portraits, but a personal experience with a kimono look that is uniquely yours.

The studio:

I run my own modern kimono studio in Asakusa, Tokyo, where the styling and preparations for your photoshoot take place.

For regular sessions, I photograph around the neighbourhood surrounding the studio. I deliberately choose quiet, atmospheric locations rather than crowded tourist spots, allowing you to enjoy wearing kimono and being photographed without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

My photography is based almost entirely on natural light, so the atmosphere of each session is influenced by the season, weather and time of day. I embrace that unpredictability — it is part of what makes each photoshoot unique.

Kimono is for everyone:

I believe that everyone should be able to experience authentic kimono.

INKIMONO is LGBTQ+ inclusive, plus-size inclusive and wheelchair inclusive, and I adapt the styling and dressing process to each individual wherever possible. I want to create a look that feels beautiful, authentic and comfortable for you.

Recognition:

My work has been featured in magazines, newspapers, YouTube videos, radio and television. In 2026, INKIMONO was awarded Best LGBTQ+ Travel and Best Accessible Travel by the Japan Travel Awards.

I am proud that the studio I have built around kimono, photography and inclusion has been recognised not only for its artistic work, but also for creating an experience where more people can feel welcome wearing kimono.

@inkimono