Hokkaido: Wedding & Kimono Tours | Parks, Lakes & Shrine

Hokkaido: Wedding & Kimono Tours | Parks, Lakes & Shrine
Location: Hokkaido, Japan
Country: Japan
Price: $2,021 per group up to 2
Supplier: Heart Art

A Unique Blend of Romance, Tradition, and Scenic Beauty

Imagine stepping into a fairytale where you’re dressed in a beautiful wedding gown or kimono, surrounded by some of Hokkaido’s most breathtaking landscapes. For about $2,000, Heart Art offers a full-day, private photoshoot experience, perfect for couples seeking a memorable way to celebrate their love amid Japan’s northern splendor. Starting in Sapporo at the LECIEL PHOTO studio, you’ll enjoy professional hair and makeup services and then travel in a private car to locations like Otaru Canal, Furano, Blue Pond, and even Toyohira Shrine for a genuine Shinto wedding ceremony.

What really drew us in are two standout points. First, the stunning variety of locations—from the historic Otaru Canal to the surreal Blue Pond—each backdrop offers a different mood and story for your photos. Second, the authenticity of the experience, especially with the option for a real Shinto wedding at Toyohira Shrine, which adds a genuine cultural touch that’s rare to find in typical wedding shoots.

A small consideration to keep in mind is the weather. Since outdoor locations are at the mercy of snow, rain, or wind, you might need some flexibility or alternative plans. But rest assured, the team is prepared to adapt with different locations if needed.

This tour is ideal for couples who want more than just pictures—they want an experience that blends scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and professional styling in one seamless day. If you’re celebrating an engagement, anniversary, or just want a special keepsake of your trip to Japan, this could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Full-Day Private Experience: You get dedicated attention from professional photographers and stylists for the entire day.
• Multiple Locations: The trip includes visits to iconic spots like Otaru Canal, Furano, Blue Pond, and Toyohira Shrine.
• Authentic Cultural Option: The possibility of a real Shinto wedding ceremony adds meaningful depth.
• High-Quality Photos: Over 300 high-resolution images, with 30 professionally retouched, ensure plenty of memorable shots.
• Flexible & Personalized: Meet at LECIEL PHOTO, choose your outfits in advance, and customize your locations and style.
• Multilingual Support: Assistance is available in English, Chinese, and Japanese, making communication smooth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Closer Look at What to Expect

Starting Point and Preparation
Your day begins at the LECIEL PHOTO studio in Sapporo, where a professional hair & makeup artist will work their magic for up to 8 hours. This is a chance to relax, enjoy some pampering, and get your outfits fitted. We loved how smoothly the process was, with the team clearly experienced and attentive. Plus, knowing all the props and lighting equipment are included means there’s no stress about setup—just focus on looking your best.

Outfit Choices and Styling
You can select up to two wedding dresses or different styling sets. Options typically include traditional kimono styles like Shiromuku and Uchikake, which are perfect for those wanting an authentic touch, or more modern wedding gowns. This variety ensures you can create a look that matches your personality or the story you want to tell through photos.

Travel Between Locations
A private car will whisk you to three chosen spots, which may include Nakajima Park, Moerenuma Park, Otaru Canal, Blue Pond, Dream Beach, or even Furano and Biei for their striking landscapes. The flexibility to choose your locations allows you to tailor the experience to your preferences.

The Photography Session
Throughout the day, your professional photographer will capture over 300 high-res images. Many reviewers comment on how relaxed and enjoyable the shoot feels, thanks to the friendly staff and beautiful scenery. Expect a mix of candid moments and carefully posed shots, with the option to have 30 images professionally retouched for a polished look.

Special Option: Shinto Wedding Ceremony
One of the most unique features is the Shinto wedding ceremony at Toyohira Shrine. This ritual involves authentic shrine practices, offering a real cultural experience alongside your photos. It’s a rare opportunity to participate in a traditional ritual, making your photos all the more meaningful.

Photo Delivery and Editing
All your images will be ready within 2 days, with 30 retouched photos delivered in 7 days. This quick turnaround is a real plus, especially if you’re planning to use some of the photos for invitations or souvenirs.

The Locations and Why They Matter

Otaru Canal is famous for its historic brick warehouses and scenic waterways, offering a romantic backdrop especially at sunset. We loved the way the old-fashioned charm complements modern wedding attire.

Blue Pond is a surreal, almost otherworldly location, with its aquamarine water and surrounding trees. It’s become a must-see for photographers and travelers alike. The photos here are guaranteed to impress friends back home.

Furano and Biei showcase vast fields and rolling hills, perfect for capturing a sense of openness and freedom. If you love nature’s grandeur, these spots won’t disappoint.

Toyohira Shrine provides an authentic setting for a Shinto wedding, with traditional torii gates and peaceful grounds. Participating in a real ceremony adds depth and cultural authenticity to your experience, making it more than just a photo shoot.

Value and Practicalities

For $2,021, you’re getting an all-inclusive, full-day experience that combines professional photography, styling, transportation, and multiple scenic locations. Compared to hiring a photographer and stylist independently, this package offers a good deal—especially considering the convenience of private transport and the flexibility of location choices.

The small group size (limited to one couple per day) ensures you get personalized attention, which is often appreciated by couples wanting an intimate, tailored experience. Plus, the multilingual support means language barriers won’t be a problem, whether you’re fluent in Japanese or just starting in English.

One thing to consider is the weather—outdoor locations are susceptible to snow, rain, or wind, common in Hokkaido depending on the season. It’s advisable to have some backup options and be flexible with your schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits couples who value authentic cultural elements combined with stunning scenery. If you’re looking for a memorable way to celebrate a special occasion or want photos that reflect both Japan’s natural beauty and tradition, this tour hits the mark. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate professional styling and quick photo delivery—you’ll have your images in just a few days.

If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more traditional wedding, the Shinto ceremony option adds a unique touch. However, those seeking a simple, casual photoshoot might find the full-day commitment a bit much.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Sum Up

In our view, this Hokkaido wedding and kimono tour offers a rare opportunity to combine stunning scenery, cultural authenticity, and professional quality photography in one seamless package. The variety of locations—from historic canals to surreal ponds—lets you craft a visual story that’s both personal and beautiful.

The optional Shinto ceremony adds a layer of genuine cultural experience, making your photos genuinely special. The all-inclusive pricing covers everything from styling to transportation, giving you peace of mind and plenty of time to enjoy the day.

We believe this experience works best for couples who want more than just pictures—they want lasting memories and a story to tell. Whether celebrating an engagement, anniversary, or simply wanting to capture special moments in Japan, this tour provides a meaningful, picturesque adventure.

FAQ

How long does the photoshoot last?
The entire experience, including makeup, styling, and photography, spans a full day—about 8 hours.

What locations are included in the shoot?
Up to three locations are chosen for your shoot, such as Nakajima Park, Otaru Canal, or Blue Pond—the exact spots depend on your preferences and weather conditions.

Are outfits included?
Yes, you can select up to two wedding dresses or kimono sets, including traditional styles like Shiromuku and Uchikake. Additional outfits or kimono types may be available as add-ons or in premium plans.

Can I participate in a real wedding ceremony?
Yes, there’s an option for a Shinto wedding ceremony at Toyohira Shrine, which involves authentic rituals captured by professional photographers.

Will I receive my photos quickly?
All photos are delivered within 2 days, with 30 retouched images in 7 days, giving you plenty of time to review and share.

Is this experience suitable for non-Japanese speakers?
Absolutely. Multilingual support in English, Chinese, and Japanese ensures smooth communication throughout the day.

What if the weather is bad?
In case of heavy rain or snow, alternative locations will be arranged to ensure your shoot remains scenic and enjoyable. Flexible planning minimizes disappointment.

This Hokkaido wedding and kimono tour offers a well-rounded, authentic, and picture-perfect experience. It’s ideal for couples eager for a blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and professional quality—creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: