Kyoto: Maiko Makeover and Photoshoot Experience (Women Only)

Kyoto’s Maiko Makeover and Photoshoot Experience offers women a captivating cultural journey. Participants can enjoy the world of traditional Japanese geisha, selecting from over 200 exquisite kimonos and receiving professional hair and makeup styling. The experience culminates in a personalized photoshoot, preserving the maiko transformation through a one-of-a-kind photo book and USB keepsake. This immersive activity allows visitors to fully embrace the artistry and elegance of the geisha tradition, creating cherished memories of their time in the historic city of Kyoto. What secrets might this experience unveil?

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

Key Points

• Women can transform into traditional Japanese geisha with a unique makeover and photoshoot experience in Kyoto.
• Participants can choose from over 200 exquisite kimonos and accessories to complete the authentic maiko ensemble.
• Professional makeup application, including the signature white "shiro-nuri" foundation, and hair styling create a fully immersive geisha appearance.
• The photography session takes place in a traditional Japanese room, with guidance from a professional photographer to capture the best shots.
• Participants receive a photo book and a USB with all the photos from the shoot, allowing them to relive and share the memorable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

The maiko makeover and photoshoot experience in Kyoto provides women with a unique opportunity to transform into a traditional Japanese geisha. Participants can choose from over 200 kimonos and have their hair and makeup done by professionals.

They’ll then engage in a photography session in a Japanese room, with the option to use a white makeup look and false eyelashes. The experience includes a photo book with 3 pages and a USB with all the photos from the shoot. Participants also have 10 minutes of free time for self-photography.

The activity is restricted to women and excludes outdoor photography and additional photo prints beyond the included book.

Kimono Selection

Participants can choose from a selection of over 200 exquisite kimonos for their maiko makeover and photoshoot experience. The kimonos come in a variety of styles, colors, and patterns, allowing each participant to find the perfect fit for their unique look. The experienced staff will assist in selecting the appropriate kimono and accessories, ensuring a seamless and authentic transformation into a maiko.

Vibrant hues like ruby red, emerald green, and royal blue are available. Traditional patterns such as cherry blossoms, chrysanthemums, and birds adorn the kimonos. Intricate obi sashes and traditional footwear complete the maiko ensemble. Participants can choose between a natural wig or opt for a no-wig option. Makeup and false eyelashes are also provided to enhance the maiko aesthetic.

Makeup and Hair

Once the participants have selected their desired kimonos, the experienced staff moves on to transforming their appearance with professional makeup and hair styling.

The makeup artist applies the signature white foundation, known as "shiro-nuri," to create the classic geisha look. False eyelashes are then added, enhancing the eyes.

Next, the hair is carefully styled, either with a natural wig or the option to forgo the wig altogether. The end result is a stunning, authentic geisha appearance, ready for the photoshoot.

This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each participant feels fully immersed in the maiko experience.

Photography Session

After the meticulous hair and makeup transformation, participants make their way to the photography session. They’ll be photographed in a traditional Japanese room, creating an authentic geisha-inspired look.

The session includes a variety of poses and backdrops to capture the essence of the experience. Participants can expect:

• Guidance from a professional photographer to ensure the best possible shots
• A range of poses, from demure to energetic
• Opportunities to experiment with different angles and expressions
• 10 minutes of free time for self-photography to capture personal moments
• The final photo book and USB with all the images from the session.

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Photo Delivery

After the photography session, participants receive their commemorative photo products. This includes a photo book with 3 pages showcasing the best shots from the session.

Participants also receive a USB drive containing all the photos taken during the shoot. The photo book and USB allow guests to relive the experience and share the memories with friends and family.

While additional photo prints beyond the included photo book can be purchased, the complimentary photo products provide a convenient and comprehensive way to capture and preserve the geisha transformation.

Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can save up to 10% on the Kyoto Maiko Makeover and Photoshoot Experience, with the price dropping from £399.66 to £389.70 per person. To book the experience, guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

Plus, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The booking and cancellation policy includes:

• Save up to 10% on the experience
• Reserve now and pay later
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant women
• Men can’t participate in this women-only experience

Age and Health Restrictions

The experience isn’t suitable for children under 12 years old or pregnant women. This is due to the traditional Japanese makeup and kimono fitting that may not be appropriate or comfortable for young children or expectant mothers.

The experience is designed for adult women looking to embrace the geisha culture through a transformation and photoshoot. Plus, male participants aren’t allowed to take part in this women-only experience.

These restrictions are in place to maintain the authenticity and culture of the activity, ensuring the comfort and safety of all participants.

Additional Information

Convenience and flexibility are hallmarks of this Kyoto geisha makeover experience. Guests can save up to 10% on the £389.70 per person package by booking in advance, and can reserve their spot without paying upfront. Those who need to cancel can do so for free up to 24 hours before the event.

The experience includes:

• A photo book with 3 pages and a USB with all photos from the shoot
• 10 minutes of free time for self-photography
• Optional white makeup, false eyelashes, and natural wig or no wig choice

This immersive cultural experience is exclusively for women and not suitable for children under 12 or pregnant individuals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Kimonos Customized for Each Participant?

The kimonos are not customized for each participant. Participants can choose from a selection of around 200 kimonos during the experience. The kimonos are pre-existing and not tailored specifically to each individual.

How Much Time Is Allocated for the Makeover Process?

The makeover process takes an unspecified amount of time, but participants can expect hair and makeup to be done by a professional before the photoshoot session, which includes 10 minutes of self-photography time.

Can Participants Bring Their Own Cameras/Phones?

Participants are allowed to bring their own cameras or phones for the 10-minute free time to take self-photographs during the experience. However, the professional photography session is included.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Increased Photo Prints?

Additional photo prints beyond the included photo book incur extra fees. The experience includes a photo book with 3 pages and a USB with all photos, but participants must pay for any extra prints they want.

Is This Experience Suitable for Individuals With Physical Disabilities?

The experience is not explicitly stated as suitable or unsuitable for individuals with physical disabilities. Interested participants should inquire about the accessibility and accommodations provided to determine if the experience meets their needs.

Recap

The Kyoto Maiko Makeover and Photoshoot Experience offers a unique culture, allowing women to embrace the artistry and elegance of the geisha tradition. With a wide selection of exquisite kimonos, professional hair and makeup styling, and a personalized photo book, participants can create cherished memories of their time in Kyoto. This immersive activity provides a truly unforgettable cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: