What to do and see in Kyoto, Kinki: The Best Photography Tours

May 1, 2022 Randal Brittian

The shrines and temples of Kyoto offer a rare link between modern life in the city and its very ancient past. The Shimogamo Shrine dates to the 6th century and seems suspended in time, its serenity and spiritual power still palpable. Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, then see the life-sized Thousand Armed Kannon statues of Sanjūsangen-dō. Enjoy traditional geisha performances, then savor a tranquil meal at a restaurant overlooking the Kamo River.
Restaurants in Kyoto

1. Maiko Makeover Experience in Kyoto : Couple plan

Gion AYA Maiko & Geisha Makeover, 499-8 Shimokawarachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825, Japan Attractive JAPAN
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

【OUTLINE】 Let's take pictures of the two of you as a maiko and a samurai! You can have a experience to be a maiko and a samurai experience in a real teahouse (place where geiko entertain their guests) in the Gion district which is established in the Taisho Era (1912-1926). The main sightseeing spots in Kyoto Higashiyama are within a 10-minute walk so when you leave the teashop, you can see the Kyoto-like townscape. You don't need to prepare anything. Please leave everything to the staff. You will receive four 2L-size (127×178 mm) photos, two L-size photos, and a USB containing all the data. 【HIGHLIGHTS】 ・Change into a beautiful maiko and a cool samurai ・Pictures will be taken in a tatami room in a Japanese house ・Receive four 2L-size (127×178 mm) photos, two L-size photos, and a USB containing all the data.

Inclusions: Kimono rental, Hair and makeup & One Japanese hair ornament (women only), Photography (4 2L-size pictures, 2 laminated pictures, USB)

Exclusions: Make up products to use after the Maiko makeup is removed (Women only)

Reviewed By liangyuc1911

it was an amazing experience!! with the glass bottles i could use it was so fun and and simple!!!!!!!

2. Memoirs of Kyoto

595-3 Jihōin Anmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0871, Japan EYExplore
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Kyoto—a city of quaint streets and picturesque avenues lined with wooden houses from a time gone by. The denizens of the city still embody this old-fashioned existence. Their passion for their own heritage is embodied in their fashion and mannerisms. The city’s temples are not mere mausoleums to something long gone, but are living, breathing monuments to the spirit of the city that is Kyoto. We will learn how to photograph humanity and life in the famed old streets of Kyoto. You will learn the most effective camera settings and techniques for capturing moments on the fly. We will also practice approaching people and asking them to pose for our cameras, in particular those wearing beautiful kimono, bright splashes of color and elegant patterns.

Inclusions: Professional Photography Instructor

Exclusions: Bus fare, Gratuities

Reviewed By shirleytay123

I was in Kyoto for 3 days and one of the afternoon was dedicated to a photoshoot with a Maiko (an apprentice training to be a Geisha). I had a good session as the Maiko was accommodating and just before the actual session Lukasz showed me some possible photo ideas. This was especially good because my time with the Maiko was limited. After looking at the photos I’ve taken, I wished the lighting was better. There are some unflattering shadows on her face despite her being only 18 years old. Overall the session was good.

3. Maiko Makeover - Photo Session in the Traditional Japanese Room Plan in Kyoto

Gion AYA Maiko & Geisha Makeover, 499-8 Shimokawarachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825, Japan Attractive JAPAN
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

【OUTLINE】 Enjoy a traditional Japanese house as a maiko. You can have a maiko experience in a real teahouse (place where geiko entertain their guests) in the Gion district, which is established in the Taisho Era (1912-1926). The main sightseeing spots in Kyoto Higashiyama are within a 10-minute walk so when you leave the teahouse, you can see the Kyoto-like townscape. You don't need to prepare anything. Please leave everything to the staff. You will receive four 2L-size (127×178mm) photos. 【HIGHLIGHTS】 ・Change into a maiko with Japanese makeup, a gorgeous kimono and a brilliant hair ornament. ・The photographer, who knows the essence of the beauty of maiko, will take pictures in a Japanese tatami room. ・Walk around in Kyoto with sandals that only maiko wear.

Inclusions: Kimono rental, Hair and makeup, One Japanese hair ornament, Photography, 4 2L-size pictures, Album, Local taxes

Exclusions: Make up products to use after the Maiko makeup is removed, Transportation to/from attractions

Reviewed By liangyuc1911

it was an amazing experience!! with the glass bottles i could use it was so fun and and simple!!!!!!!

4. Dress like an 'Oiran': A Japanese Courtesan from the 17th Century

Studio Kokoro, Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryūji Susukinobabachō, 3番地18地下 1階 Attractive JAPAN
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Dress like a modern 'Oiran', the name for high-ranking courtesans who were the height of fashion in 17th century Japan. This experience will have you feeling like an actress getting ready on a studio set. This plan includes makeup, fitting and dressing into an Oiran costume, fitting into an overgarment called "Uchikake", and a photoshoot (three photos 127 x 178 mm).

Inclusions: All the necessities for Miako experience like an undershirt, socks, makeup remover, cosmetics, towels and drier are ready to use., Iro-Uchikake (colorful overgarment), Photoshoot in the in-house studio, 3 photos (127x178 mm)

Exclusions: Transportation to/from attractions, Please bring your own cosmetics as necessary after the OIRAN makeup is removed., *For customers using hard contact lens: Please bring your lens case. You need to take off your lens.

Reviewed By liangyuc1911

it was an amazing experience!! with the glass bottles i could use it was so fun and and simple!!!!!!!

5. Turn Into a Maiko - Garden Plan - in Kyoto

Gion AYA Maiko & Geisha Makeover, 499-8 Shimokawarachō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825, Japan Attractive JAPAN
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

【OUTLINE】 A maiko experience in a real teahouse (place where geiko entertain their guests) in the Gion district established in the Taisho Era (1912-1926). Prepare to become a maiko, typical for Kyoto and pictures will be taken of your beautiful maiko appearance in the Tsuboniwa courtyard in Kyo-Machiya (a traditional wooden house in Kyoto). No special preparation is necessary. Please leave everything to the staff that day. You will receive three 2L-size (127×178mm) photos. 【HIGHLIGHTS】 ・Change into a maiko with Japanese makeup, a gorgeous kimono and a brilliant hair ornament. ・Photography in the authentic Tsuboniwa courtyard in Kyo-Machiya (Kyoto townhouse), where water filled bamboo-tubes and garden lanterns have been arranged. ・A photographer, who knows the essence of the beauty of maiko, will take pictures

Inclusions: Maiko experience, Pictures of 3 poses, Three 2L-size (127×178mm) photos., Local taxes

Exclusions: Make-up products to use after the Maiko makeup is removed, Transportation to/from attractions

Reviewed By liangyuc1911

it was an amazing experience!! with the glass bottles i could use it was so fun and and simple!!!!!!!

6. Your Private Vacation Photography Session In Kyoto

Hanamikoji-dori, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, Japan Your Travel Story Japan
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5.0 based on 16 reviews

This is your private vacation photography session in Kyoto. Kyoto is one of the most popular destination of the vacation trip. The unique culture, delicious food, and fabulous scenery will be waiting for you. You would feel like to capture each the best moments in your trip in Kyoto with your partner or family. Then you can join this photography service. We are all local photographers. So we will not only take beautiful photography of you, but also give you why Kyoto is the best, some history and culture, and tips that help you enjoy Kyoto more.

Inclusions: About 50 beautiful edited photos

Exclusions: Transportation fee, Japanese traditional Kimono

Reviewed By RDoshi32

Satoshi was incredibly nice and took some amazing photos! He also gave me nice pointers on what do in Kyoto while touring me round the amazing sights. Would highly recommend!!

7. Beautiful Photography Tour in Kyoto

569 Gionmachi Minamigawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0074, Japan Your Travel Story Japan
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5.0 based on 38 reviews

In this tour, I will capture the best moments of your trip in Kyoto. The tour route is Hanami-koji⇒Yasuikonpira Shrine⇒Ishibekoji⇒Maruyama park. The main reason why you should choose this tour is that I'm not only good at taking beautiful photos of you, but also I'm very familiar to these area so I will take you to the hidden and secret spots that are less crowd, and do photo session there. I'm very good at taking photos of solo-portrait, couple, honeymoon and family. I will take photos of you one by one, group by group. So I would like you to wait for minutes while I take photos for another group. I will suggest spots, poses, and angles. But you can also tell me your preference. After tour, I will send the photos by data via Email on the SAME DAY or NEXT DAY of the tour. In addition, I will also tell you about local culture, good spots for food and fun, and some tips that help you enjoy Japan more. I will really do my best to capture the beautiful moment of you into the photography.

Inclusions: Professional photographer guide, Around 50 high quality edited photos

Exclusions: Kimono or Yukata (Japanese traditional cloth), Transportation (tour is all by walk)

Reviewed By B-Golotak

You will never go wrong in choosing Satoshi. I booked a private photo session with him in Kyoto during the spring sakura season. Despite the bazillions number of tourists, he efficiently worked around it and took breath-taking pictures of me wearing a kimono without sacrificing the beauty of the surroundings. His work is far better than other private photographers I searched before finding him, and not to mention he is local to Kyoto and speaks excellent English. Booking with him, even at the last minute, went smoothly. Satoshi is an amicable person and very professional. He also informed me of the historical facts on places we passed by and recommended places to see while in Kyoto without interrupting the session's amount of time. He went above and beyond my expectations. It's been my dream and one of my bucket lists to be professionally photographed surrounded by cherry blossoms. Thank you, Satoshi, for helping me make my dream come true.

8. [Kyoto Street Shot] Recording every wonderful moment of travel with shutter (free kimono experience)

59 Motoyoshichō, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0087, Japan Tri Memo
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・The staff are female photographers who can speak at least two kinds of languages. ・Original kimono rental free, limited quantity! ・We will take you to the recommended spots such as according to the season, such as cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, and take the best shot that you can leave just at that moment. -Free kimono rental for 2 people (hair set and makeup are charged separately) -Course length: approx. 1 hour for kimono dressing, approx. 1 hour shooting -Location: Gion Shirakawa, Tatsumibashi, Yasaka Shrine, Maruyama Park, etc. -Important information- ・ Kimono can be added on site. The fee is based on the situation at the site (from 4000 yen) ・ Free kimono rental does not include hair set and makeup. Hair set 1800 yen / person, simple makeup 3000 yen / person, full makeup 5000 yen / person. ・ Please arrive at least one hour before kimono dressing. ・ We will provide all unmodified photos taken during the service time. The edited photo data will be sent by email two to three weeks later. ・ Shooting location may be changed depending on weather or congestion. (Example: Shirakawa) ・ If you wish to travel by a taxi or shoot in a place where an entrance fee is required, you will be responsible for the cost, including the cost of the photographer. ・ The service limits to sightseeing shooting only, not includes wedding photography. email:[email protected] TEL:+819066624909

Inclusions: photo data information

Exclusions: umbrella

9. SnapKyoto's Cycle Photo Shoot and Tour (Kyoto's hidden gems)

Sanjoomiya Park, Japan, 〒604-8336 Kyoto, Nakagyo Ward, Sanjōōmiyachō, 272−1 三条通 Kyoto Photographer
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5.0 based on 7 reviews

The most unique tour will take you to a castle, palace, temple, shrine, a local shopping street, and a Japanese garden while offering three amazing things: 1. Cycle through the streets of Kyoto with a local without waiting or queuing for bus/train or behind other tourists. 2. Get your photos taken by a professional photographer to document your amazing memories and the next day you will receive 50-100 stunning images to share with family/friends. No need for camera/selfie stick. 3. Learn about the history, culture and the people of Kyoto and Japan from an expat who's lived in Kyoto for 12 years. No need to worry where to go and what to see. I'll take care of it all. You just enjoy the sites. If your prefered time is not available, please get in touch and I will create one. If you want a tour that includes Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari, and Gion Geisha area by public transport, I offer Half-day and Full-Day Photo tours, so please check snapkyoto my Instagram.

Inclusions: Use of bicycle, English speaking guide, 50-100 pro-level full resolution photos

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Reviewed By Ludifrance

We rented kimonos with my friend and asked Matt for a shooting at the bamboo Forest. It was a very good experience !! Even without editing , pictures are amazing! We were so shocked . He is very nice, professionnal and knows a lot about Japon History ! Thank you so much ! Si vous voulez un superbe souvenir de ce lieu magique ( bamboo forest ) à Kyoto je vous recommande ce photographe ! Il est très professionnel et en connait un rayon sur l'histoire nippone ! Les photos sont juste incroyables ! Je n'en revenais pas . Un grand merci!! Lulu et Adrianna France /USA

10. SnapKyoto's Photo Shoot and Tour

Yasaka-Jinja Shrine Nishiromon Gate, 625 Gionmachi Kitagawa, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0073, Japan Kyoto Photographer
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5.0 based on 13 reviews

Snapkyoto offers two unique things: 1. Pro-level photography (30-50 photos). 2. Guide in English about Japan, Kyoto, its people, culture and history. Explore Kyoto with your very own photographer who will show you around & snap your photos in Kyoto's most beautiful sites. The next day you will receive some amazing photos to share among friends and family or on social media. Gion/Higashiyama is famous for its geishas dressed in kimono, tea houses, colourful shrines and zen temples. Other photo tours by public transport: *Half-Day Tour: 2 epic areas (3.5 hours) 100 photos: *Full-Day Tour: All Kyoto's epic areas (7 hours) 200 photos. *Epic areas: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Golden Pavilion and Gion/Higashiyama. Instagram is snapkyoto. if your prefered time is not available, please get in touch. I will create one. I also offer cycle photo tour, please check it out.

Inclusions: 30-50 pro-level Photos, English guide

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Reviewed By Cor L

Matt took us to some cool hidden spots around Kyoto that wasn't packed with tourists so we were able to get some really nice posed and action shots that looked great on instagram! If you're looking for a cycling tour that comes with your own entertaining tour guide and professional photographer, this is the perfect tour for you! Thanks Matt! Wish we had enough time to book sushi making with your wife too! Hope to try that next time ☺️????????⛩️????????????????????

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