Hanfu Chinese Traditional Costume Try on

Discovering the Charm of Hanfu in Chicago

Our review explores a unique cultural activity right in Chicago’s Chinatown—the Hanfu Chinese Traditional Costume Try-on at the Chinatown Visitor Center. While we haven’t participated ourselves, this experience offers a fun, affordable way to connect with Chinese heritage without leaving the city.

What stands out immediately is the chance to wear an authentic Hanfu, complete with accessories like hairpieces, fans, swords, and belts. It’s a rare opportunity for both history buffs and selfie enthusiasts to step into an ancient tradition. Plus, the staff’s assistance with dressing and styling means you don’t need to be a fashion expert to look good in these elegant robes.

One potential consideration: the activity lasts about an hour, which might feel short for those wanting a more extensive culture. But for most, this short but sweet activity offers excellent value, particularly because of the stunning photos you’ll be able to share afterward. Ideal for families, friends, or anyone curious about Chinese culture, this experience brings history to life with a playful twist.

Key Points

• Affordable Cultural Experience: Only $20 per person for a full Hanfu costume with accessories.
• Photo-Friendly Activity: Staff-assisted styling and the opportunity to take selfies or professional photos.
• Authentic Costumes: Full Hanfu sets, including traditional accessories, create an immersive look.
• Accessible and Convenient: Located near public transportation in Chicago’s Chinatown, with a max group of 10 travelers.
• No Take-Home Cost: The rental is for the experience only; no option to keep the costume.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.

A Deep Dive into the Hanfu Costume Try-on Experience

Location and Logistics

Nestled within Chicago’s vibrant Chinatown, the Chinatown Visitor Center at 2189 S Wentworth Ave** serves as the welcoming hub for this activity. Its location near public transit makes it easy for city travelers to pop in without hassle. The experience is designed to be straightforward—meet at the visitor center, don the costumes, and take photos. The session ends back at the start point, so you can easily continue exploring Chicago afterward.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For just $20, you receive a full Hanfu set with accessories—hairpieces, a fan, a sword, a belt, and a shawl—along with staff assistance to help you dress and style your look. Whether you’re a first-timer or a costume veteran, the staff’s help ensures you’ll look authentic and photogenic.

You’ll have the chance to take selfies or opt for staff-assisted photos, capturing memories of your time in traditional attire. However, it’s important to note that there’s no option to take home the costume—the rental is strictly for the duration of the session, which lasts about an hour.

The Experience Itself

Once dressed, the fun begins. The staff carefully helps you put on the costume, ensuring proper fit and style. They guide you in posing for photos, making sure you look your best in this historical outfit. The accessories, such as the hairpieces and fans, add a lively touch, making the photos truly stand out.

Because the costumes are traditional, you can expect vibrant colors and intricate designs, representing different dynasties and styles of Hanfu. This visual authenticity provides a tangible connection to Chinese culture, fascinating for both adults and children. As one review mentioned, “the staff was attentive and made the dressing process smooth,” which is helpful for a stress-free session.

Photography and Sharing

The opportunity to take selfies or have staff-assisted photos is a highlight. Many visitors have remarked how fun it was to pose in these traditional costumes and share the images with friends and family. The photos often turn out stunning, with the costumes and accessories adding a regal, timeless quality.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the activity maintains an intimate, relaxed vibe. This small group size offers personalized attention, ensuring everyone gets enough assistance and feels comfortable. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups of friends looking for a casual yet meaningful cultural experience.

Value and Pricing

At just $20 per person, the cost is quite reasonable. Considering the full costume, accessories, professional styling, and photo opportunities, the value is solid—especially for those who want a memorable souvenir or a fun activity without breaking the bank.

One visitor noted, “It’s a great way to try something completely different and get some beautiful photos,” emphasizing how accessible and worthwhile it is.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Since the activity is indoors, weather isn’t a major concern. However, the experience is contingent on good weather if it’s canceled—such as due to severe conditions—you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund. Cancellation is free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if your plans change suddenly.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This activity is best suited for those curious about Chinese culture, history enthusiasts, or anyone who loves dressing up and taking photos. It’s especially appealing to families with kids, couples on a date, or groups of friends looking for a fun, interactive activity. Those seeking a deep culture or a long costume rental might find it too brief, but for a light-hearted, picturesque experience, it hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For a modest investment, this Hanfu costume try-on offers a delightful glimpse into Chinese tradition without requiring travel to China or hours in a museum. The costumes are authentic, the staff is helpful, and the photos turn out beautifully, making it a worthwhile activity for most visitors to Chicago’s Chinatown.

If your goal is to add some colorful, memorable photos to your trip or to experience a small slice of Chinese tradition firsthand, this activity delivers on both counts. It’s a chance to step into history, even if just for a little while, and leave with images that will surely be a highlight of your trip.

It’s ideal for those with a sense of adventure and appreciation for cultural experiences—offering genuine value at a very accessible price point.

FAQ

What is included in the Hanfu costume rental?
You get a full Hanfu set with accessories like hairpieces, a fan, sword, belt, and shawl, along with staff assistance for dressing and styling.

How long does the experience last?
The session runs approximately one hour, including dressing and photo-taking.

Can I take photos during the experience?
Yes, you can take selfies or have staff help you take photos in the costumes.

Is there an option to keep the costume?
No, the rental is only for the duration of the activity—there’s no take-home option.

Where is the meeting point?
The activity begins at the Chinatown Visitor Center, located at 2189 S Wentworth Ave, Chicago.

What is the group size limit?
A maximum of 10 travelers participate at once, ensuring personalized attention.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families and kids, as long as they are comfortable in costumes.

Is there a deposit required?
For sessions over one hour, a refundable $50 deposit per person is required if there are delays or damages.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This delightful, culturally rich activity offers a rare opportunity to dress in traditional Chinese attire without leaving Chicago. Perfect for a fun, memorable outing that combines history, fashion, and photography—all at a very reasonable price.