Kyoto kiyomizu Temple : Maiko and Samurai Family Photoshoot

Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple: Maiko and Samurai Family Photoshoot offers an authentic glimpse into Japan’s cultural dress-up tradition. For around $161 per person, you spend approximately 3.5 hours stepping into the shoes of a Maiko, Samurai, or even a child in traditional kimono, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Kyoto’s historic Kiyomizu area. Guided by professional stylists, you’ll be outfitted with one of over 100 kimonos, have your hair and makeup artistically done, and pose in beautifully curated Japanese rooms, tea spaces, or gardens.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines culture with high-quality photography. The professional styling means you’ll look and feel like a true character from Japan’s past, and you get a tangible souvenir—a 4-page photo book plus a USB full of your images. Plus, the option to add a strolling session makes it even more memorable.

One potential consideration is that outdoor shoots and add-on options require good weather—rainy days mean fewer outdoor choices. This tour suits travelers who love visual storytelling, cultural dress-up, and capturing special moments in a unique, historical setting with loved ones.

Key Points

• Authentic Dressing Experience: Choose from over 100 kimonos and have your hair and makeup professionally styled.
• Memorable Photos: Receive a 4-page printed photo book and a USB with all images.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for groups of up to three people, including children and adults.
• Cultural Settings: Photos are taken in traditional Japanese rooms, tea rooms, or gardens—adding ambiance.
• Optional Strolling: For a fee, you can add outdoor walks, enhancing your photos.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 3) ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Kyoto Maiko and Samurai Photoshoot

What’s Included and How It Works

This experience is all about dressing up in traditional Japanese attire and creating lasting memories—whether you’re visiting as a couple, family, or small group. For 3.5 hours, you’ll be styled by professionals, choosing from over 100 kimonos—a selection that guarantees you’ll find one that suits your taste. Women can opt for white makeup (or skip it if you prefer), false eyelashes, and natural wigs—though options like no wig are available for a more natural look. Men are dressed in kimonos, with the focus on authenticity.

Children are also welcome, with special arrangements for girls and boys aged roughly 110cm to 145cm. For families, this can be a delightful way to connect with Japan’s traditional culture in a fun and visual way. The package includes 4 professionally taken photos—which can be individual or group shots—and the choice of shooting in different traditional settings, including Japanese rooms, teahouses, gardens, or gold folding screens, depending on the weather and your preference.

The Photography Experience

A key aspect of this tour is the professional photography. The staff will select the best shots, ensuring you get the most flattering and memorable images. You’ll spend about 10 minutes of free time for candid shots or extra poses—an opportunity for some spontaneous moments or to experiment with your poses. The photos and the printed 4-page album serve as wonderful souvenirs of your time in Kyoto.

The USB includes all images taken during the session, offering good value for those wanting a broad collection of memories. Additional photos or outdoor walks can be purchased for extra fees—so if you want to extend your experience outside the studio, you can.

The Settings and Atmosphere

The settings are carefully chosen to evoke traditional Japan. The studio offers Japanese rooms with tatami mats, tea rooms, lush gardens, and elegant gold folding screens. These backdrops help transport you to an earlier time and add a sense of authenticity and charm to your photos.

The optional strolling session (30 or 60 minutes) offers a chance to walk through Kyoto’s historic streets, capturing outdoor shots with iconic scenery—though this is weather-dependent and costs extra. If weather is poor, outdoor options may be limited, so plan accordingly.

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Transportation and Meeting Point

Getting to the studio involves a rough 20-minute bus ride from central Kyoto, getting off at the Kiyomizu-michi bus stop. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the studio. The location is convenient, situated near the famous Kiyomizu Temple area, making it easy to combine with sightseeing.

The experience concludes back at the meeting point, making logistics simple for travelers staying in Kyoto.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This photoshoot is perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a fun and memorable cultural experience. It’s especially appealing to those who love photography, dressing up, or want a high-quality keepsake from their trip. Since it’s limited to small groups, it provides an intimate setting where you can focus on having fun and looking your best.

What We Like and What to Consider

We love the professional styling and the variety of settings—these details elevate what could simply be a touristy costume rental into an authentic and artistic photo experience. The inclusion of a USB and printed album offers excellent value, turning your photos into tangible souvenirs.

A small downside is that outdoor photo options depend heavily on the weather. Rainy days might limit your options, but the studio’s indoor settings are still charming. Also, if you travel with more than three people, additional arrangements and costs are necessary.

This experience suits those who appreciate cultural traditions, enjoy having professional photos taken, and want a personalized, high-quality souvenir of Kyoto.

The Sum Up

This Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple Photoshoot as a Maiko or Samurai offers more than just a costume rental. It’s a chance to step into Japan’s historical attire, be styled by professionals, and create beautiful photos in authentic settings. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or small groups who cherish visual memories and culture.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the choice of settings allows for a variety of photo styles. The included photo book and USB make this an excellent value compared to other souvenir options. If you want a fun, stylish, and heartfelt way to remember your Kyoto trip, this experience hits the mark.

Just remember, good weather makes outdoor options more enjoyable, and booking in advance guarantees your spot in this popular activity. It’s a delightful way to connect with Japan’s traditions, even if just for a few hours.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, with special arrangements for girls and boys around 110cm to 145cm tall. It can be a fun family activity that introduces kids to Japanese culture.

How long does the photoshoot last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3.5 hours, including dressing, styling, and photo sessions.

What is included in the price?
Your package includes dressing in kimono, professional hair and makeup, four photos (single or group), a 4-page photo book, and a USB with all images.

Can I choose my setting for photos?
Yes, you can pick from several settings such as Japanese rooms, tea rooms, gardens, or gold folding screens, depending on your preference.

Is there an option to add outdoor photos?
Yes, outdoor strolling and photos can be added for an extra fee, offering a more dynamic and scenic backdrop, weather permitting.

What if I want more photos or additional styling?
Additional photos cost around 13,200 yen per person for extra images, and extra styling options or outdoor shoots are available at additional costs.

This activity is a charming and practical way to enjoy Kyoto’s traditional side, with professional photos that you’ll cherish long after your trip ends. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, photography lover, or just looking for a special experience with loved ones, it’s a memorable choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: