Where Do Kimono Wearers Keep Their Phone and Wallet?

One of the most common questions from people seeing kimono for the first time is:

“If kimono do not have pockets, where do people keep their phone and wallet?”

The answer combines both traditional and modern solutions.

Kimono usually do not have pockets

Unlike modern clothing, traditional kimono are not designed with built-in pockets.

As a result, people developed other ways to carry personal items.

The hanging part of a kimono sleeve is called the “tamoto.”

Historically, small items were sometimes placed there temporarily.

However, modern smartphones are usually too heavy to carry comfortably in the sleeve.

The area inside the kimono near the chest is sometimes called the “futokoro.”

Traditionally, letters and small personal items could be carried there.

Today, lightweight items such as handkerchiefs may still be placed in this area.

The most common solution today is simply carrying a bag.

Many kimono wearers use:

Most people carry smartphones the same way they would with modern clothing—inside a bag.

Kimono wearers regularly use smartphones, wallets, and other everyday items.

Kimono may not have pockets, but people have always found practical ways to carry what they need.

From sleeves and inner folds to modern handbags, these solutions reflect both tradition and everyday life in Japan.

Explore the Grandmother’s Kimono Archive
Learn more About alo