Kyoto Kimono : Ooku Studio Photo Plan

A Unique Kyoto Experience: Kimono Photoshoot at Ooku Studio

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a Kyoto kimono and capturing that moment in a professional photoshoot, the Ooku Studio Photo Plan offers a compelling option. Priced at $130 per person, this experience takes you to the picturesque streets of Gion Shirakawa, widely regarded as one of Kyoto’s most charming and historic neighborhoods. It’s a chance to wear traditional kimono attire, enjoy a professional photoshoot, and take home beautifully retouched images—an experience blending history, fashion, and a touch of modern photography magic.

What we love most about this experience is how it allows you to choose from a wide variety of costumes, including elaborate kimono and accessories, and enjoy a professional photoshoot set against some of Kyoto’s most iconic backdrops. The fact that they incorporate advanced compositing techniques means your photos could feel like you’ve traveled back in time—real fun for history buffs and Instagram enthusiasts alike. Another highlight is the friendly, skilled staff, who make sure your experience is both smooth and enjoyable, creating a relaxed atmosphere in which you can truly enjoy yourself.

One thing to consider is that transportation to the studio isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to plan your own way there. Also, since this experience is tailored for ages 15 and up, families with younger children might want to look for alternative options. This tour suits travelers who love cultural dress-up, want authentic Kyoto backdrops, and appreciate professional photography as a keepsake of their trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Kimono Experience: Dress in traditional Japanese kimono with many costume options.
• Professional Photos: Enjoy a photoshoot with high-quality retouched and unretouched images.
• Kyoto Setting: Capture beautiful moments in Gion Shirakawa, one of Kyoto’s most scenic districts.
• Customizable Options: Select backgrounds and accessories to personalize your look.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Extra Costs: Additional printed photos and retouched images are available for purchase.

Exploring the Kyoto Kimono Ooku Studio Photo Plan

What is the Ooku Studio Photo Plan?

This experience offers an opportunity to wear a kimono in a beautifully curated setting, with a professional photographer capturing your moment. The $130 covers everything from the kimono dressing, accessories, a quick spot makeup session, to the photographs themselves. You start by choosing your preferred costumes and backgrounds, then get dressed in your selected kimono, which may include an Uchikake kimono—a lavish, formal garment worn by nobility during the Edo period.

The photoshoot takes place in the street setting of Gion Shirakawa, known for its traditional machiya houses, lantern-lit alleys, and preserved ambiance. The result is a blend of history and modernity, where ancient Kyoto feels just steps away from your own personal snapshot.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

One of the best features is its extensive costume selection. From classic kimono to luxurious accessories like kakeshita and kanzashi, you’ll look and feel like a part of Kyoto’s storied past. The studio combines traditional costumes with advanced compositing techniques to produce photos that look as if you’ve traveled back to the Edo era—imagine walking through Gion in a kimono that belongs to a different century.

Another highlight is the professional photography team, who are praised for creating a pleasant atmosphere that makes you feel comfortable in front of the camera. According to Sylvia’s review, she found the whole process “beautiful, with great crew, professional shooting, and beautiful pictures.” Such feedback suggests that even those who are camera-shy can enjoy the experience and leave with memorable images.

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What Should You Know Before Booking?

While the experience is packed with highlights, keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your journey to the studio. The timing is flexible once you reserve, but it’s best to arrive prepared and on time. Also, children under 15 are not permitted, so families with younger kids should consider other options.

Pricing-wise, the cost includes two retouched photos, 20 unretouched images, a printed folio, accessories, and the dress-up process. Additional printed photos or retouched images are available for extra fees, so if you’re looking for more keepsakes, budget accordingly.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Arrival and Dressing

Your experience begins with arriving at the studio, where staff will help you choose from a wide array of kimono and costumes. They also provide hair accessories and a quick spot makeup session to enhance your look. The dressing process is swift but meticulous, and you’ll appreciate how professional and friendly the staff are. Sylvia commented on the “pleasant atmosphere,” which helps you relax as you’re transformed into a Kyoto noble or samurai.

The Photoshoot

Once dressed, you’ll step outside into the streets of Gion Shirakawa, one of Kyoto’s most photogenic areas. The team guides you through different poses, with shots taken against the traditional wooden houses, lantern-lit alleys, and tranquil river scenes. The studio offers a choice of backgrounds, including composite images that transport you to different historical settings.

The photographer’s expertise shines through here, capturing natural, elegant moments. The pictures are then digitally processed with advanced compositing techniques to add backgrounds or effects, making the photos feel like scenes from a historical drama.

Reviewing and Choosing Photos

After the shoot, you’ll review your images and select the ones to be retouched. The package includes 2 retouched photos and 20 unretouched ones, giving you plenty of options. The printed folio with 2 photos is a lovely keepsake, perfect for framing or giving as a gift.

Additional Options

If you wish to have more printed photos or additional retouched images, these can be purchased separately. It’s also possible to buy printed copies of your photos at an extra cost, which some travelers find worthwhile for tangible souvenirs of their Kyoto adventure.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Sylvia’s glowing review highlights the professionalism of the crew and the beauty of the costumes and photos, emphasizing a sense of “a perfect experience.” Her comments underscore how this experience creates memorable moments with a relaxed, friendly vibe.

Other travelers might appreciate the wide selection of backdrops and costumes, which give each person a chance to craft their own story. The combination of traditional attire with modern photographic techniques means you leave with images that are both authentic and striking.

Practical Details and Tips

• Reserving is flexible, with the option to book and pay later, making planning easier.
• Be aware that transportation to the studio is not included, so plan accordingly.
• Since the experience involves dressing in kimono, it may take some time—allow about 1-2 hours for the full process.
• Children under 15 are not permitted, so this activity suits adult travelers or older teens.
• Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind if your plans change.
• Additional printed photos and retouched images cost extra, so consider your souvenir needs beforehand.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is ideal for those who want a taste of traditional Kyoto culture without leaving the city, offering a fun, visually stunning way to connect with history. It’s perfect for photo enthusiasts, couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a unique souvenir of their trip. If you’re interested in fashion and history, or just want some beautiful, professional photos in a classic setting, this experience will suit you well.

While younger children may not be able to participate, adults will find it a memorable, fun, and visually rewarding activity. It’s also an excellent choice for those who prefer structured, guided experiences that produce tangible keepsakes.

The Sum Up

The Kyoto Kimono: Ooku Studio Photo Plan offers a well-rounded blend of culture, style, and professional photography. Its extensive costume collection and authentic street settings provide a unique way to experience Kyoto’s past, all while creating beautiful photographs to cherish. The friendly staff and flexible booking make it accessible for many travelers, especially those who love fashion, history, and memorable photos.

If you’re after a personalized, fun activity that gives you a taste of traditional Japan with modern photographic flair, this is a solid choice. The cost provides good value given the quality of costumes, backgrounds, and images you’ll take home, making it an experience worth considering during your time in Kyoto.

FAQs

Is transportation to the studio included?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the studio, so plan accordingly.

How long does the experience last?
While not explicitly stated, this type of studio session typically takes around 1-2 hours, including dressing, photoshoot, and review.

Can I choose my background?
Yes, you can select two types of composite backgrounds, adding a personalized touch to your photos.

Are additional photos available for purchase?
Yes, extra retouched photos cost Yen 2,200, and printed copies are available at Yen 1,100 each.

Is this experience suitable for families with children?
It’s not suitable for children under 15, so it’s best for adults or older teens.

What should I wear or bring?
No specific clothing is necessary beyond arriving dressed comfortably. Be prepared for a quick makeup touch-up and dressing in kimono.

Is the experience appropriate for non-Japanese speakers?
Yes, the staff are professional and experienced, and the process is straightforward, making it accessible regardless of language.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of traditional costumes, Kyoto’s scenic streets, and professional photography makes it a distinctive and memorable experience.

Whether you’re seeking elegant keepsakes or an authentic cultural adventure, the Kyoto Kimono Ooku Studio Photo Plan is a rewarding choice—offering a fun, beautiful, and personal way to remember your Kyoto visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: