Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple: Maiko and Samurai Couple Photoshoot

Kyoto’s historic Kiyomizu Temple offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the captivating world of traditional Japanese culture. Guests can don the elaborate attire of a maiko or samurai and pose for a professional photoshoot, capturing timeless memories in an iconic setting. With a range of over 100 kimono designs to choose from, participants receive expert hair and makeup services before embarking on a curated photography session. This intimate experience not only provides a cherished keepsake but also grants a glimpse into the rich heritage that has long defined Kyoto’s enduring legacy.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Photography Experiences In Kyoto.

Key Points

• Visitors can dress up as a maiko (geisha apprentice) or samurai at a photoshoot experience near Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto.
• The experience includes professional hair and makeup services, a kimono fitting, and a photography session in various traditional Japanese settings.
• Guests receive a 4-page photo book and a USB with all the photos taken during the 2-2.5 hour photoshoot session.
• The experience is limited to 2 participants per group and is not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women.
• Discounted pricing of $92.17 per person is available, with up to 10% in savings and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

Visitors can dress up as a maiko or samurai and take photos in traditional Japanese attire during this immersive experience. Participants can choose from over 100 kimonos and get their hair and makeup done by professionals.

The photoshoot takes place in a Japanese room, tea room, or with a gold folding screen as the backdrop. Guests will receive a 4-page photo book and a USB with all the pictures taken during the session.

The experience lasts approximately 2-2.5 hours and is limited to 2 participants per group, making it unsuitable for children under 12 or pregnant women.

Pricing and Booking

The discounted price for this experience is $92.17 per person, offering up to 10% in savings. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This photoshoot experience is limited to 2 participants per group and is not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women.

Pricing and Booking
Discounted Price	$92.17 per person
Savings	Up to 10%
Booking	Reserve now, pay later
Cancellation	Free up to 24 hours

The duration of the experience is approximately 2-2.5 hours, allowing guests to fully enjoy the traditional Japanese attire and setting.

Duration and Group Size

Limited to 2 participants per group, the Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple maiko and samurai couple photoshoot experience lasts approximately 2-2.5 hours. This intimate setting ensures a personalized and immersive experience.

The experience isn’t suitable for:

1. Children under 12
2. Pregnant women
3. Larger groups
4. Those seeking a longer duration

This concise duration allows for efficient dressing, photography, and photo finishing, providing participants with a meaningful and memorable Japanese cultural encounter within a manageable time frame.

Inclusions

What does the Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple maiko and samurai couple photoshoot experience include? The package offers a range of inclusions to enhance the authentic Japanese dress-up and photography session.

Participants can opt for white makeup, kimono dressing, and free Japanese socks. For an added touch, they can choose false eyelashes and a natural wig.

The photography session itself is included, capturing stunning images in a Japanese room, tea room, or with a gold folding screen. Afterward, guests will receive a 4-page photo book and a USB containing all the pictures taken during the experience.

Plus, a strolling option is available for an extra fee, allowing participants to explore the surrounding area in their traditional attire.

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Meeting Point

To begin the Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple maiko and samurai couple photoshoot experience, guests will meet at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple located in Kyoto. This iconic Buddhist temple, set on the beautiful hillside of Higashiyama, provides the perfect backdrop for the immersive Japanese cultural experience.

The meeting point is straightforward:

1. Address: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto
2. Arrive at the temple grounds and follow the signs or staff directions to the designated photoshoot location.
3. Be ready to transform into a maiko or samurai and begin your enchanting photographic journey.
4. Staff will be on hand to assist with the kimono dressing and any other preparations.

How to Dress Up

For the Kyoto Kiyomizu Temple maiko and samurai couple photoshoot, guests are transformed into these traditional Japanese characters through a comprehensive dressing-up process.

After choosing from over 100 stunning kimono designs, guests will receive professional hair and makeup services. This includes optional white makeup, false eyelashes, and a natural wig if desired.

The kimono dressing itself is a meticulous task, with staff ensuring a perfect fit and traditional style. Complimentary Japanese socks are also provided.

With the wardrobe and styling complete, guests are ready to step into the authentic Japanese settings and capture their memorable photoshoot experience.

Photography Session

The photoshoot session allows guests to showcase their transformed appearances in a variety of authentic Japanese settings. Participants can choose from:

1. Japanese room
2. Tea room
3. Gold folding screen
4. Other picturesque backdrops

Professionals guide guests through the photoshoot, ensuring each pose and angle highlights the intricate details of the traditional attire. The session culminates in a 4-page photo book and a USB containing all the captivating images. Guests leave with a cherished memento of their immersive Japanese cultural experience.

Souvenir Keepsakes

Guests leave the photoshoot session with a cherished memento of their immersive Japanese cultural experience. They receive a 4-page photo book and a USB containing all the pictures captured during the session.

The photo book showcases your dressed as maiko or samurai, posing in the traditional Japanese room, tea room, or with the gold folding screen. These high-quality images serve as a tangible reminder of the time they spent embodying these iconic Japanese personas.

The USB allows guests to easily access and share the photos with friends and family, extending the memories of their one-of-a-kind Kyoto adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Kimono or Yukata?

Participants can’t bring their own kimono or yukata for the photoshoot. The experience includes a selection of over 100 kimonos that will be provided and fitted by the professional staff.

Is It Possible to Have a Solo Photoshoot?

Yes, it’s possible to have a solo photoshoot. The experience is limited to 2 participants per group, but customers can book a solo session and enjoy the full range of traditional attire and photography options provided.

Can We Request Specific Hairstyles or Makeup Looks?

Yes, participants can typically request specific hairstyles or makeup looks for the photoshoot. The professionals will work with you to achieve the desired look, whether it’s a traditional maiko or samurai style.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

The experience is not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women. However, there are no other age restrictions, and participants can request specific hairstyles and makeup looks from the professional stylists.

Is There an Option to Extend the Photoshoot Duration?

There’s no option to extend the photoshoot duration, which is typically 2-2.5 hours. The experience is limited to 2 participants per group and isn’t suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women.

Recap

Immerse oneself in Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage at Kiyomizu Temple. This unique experience allows visitors to dress up as a maiko or samurai and capture the moment through a professional photoshoot. With a small group size and a range of traditional kimono designs, this activity offers a memorable way to explore Japan’s captivating traditions and traditions. The included photo book and USB provide lasting keepsakes of this enchanting cultural encounter.

You can check if your dates are available here: