Say ‘I do’ to summer wedding photos in Kyoto, a perfect backdrop of timeless beauty and cultural charm.
We recently tied the knot in 2024, and as a Thai person, I've always been curious about wearing Shiromuku (白無垢), the traditional Japanese white bridal kimono. So, my husband and I decided to take some wedding photos in Kyoto, and I couldn't be more excited!
At that time, I had just graduated and was waiting for my graduation ceremony. Before the big day, my husband visited me in Kyoto, and we thought it would be perfect to snap some wedding photos in our traditional kimonos before heading to Tokyo.
If you're on the fence about where to take wedding photos in Japan, check out our photos and see if Kyoto might be the spot for your dream wedding shoot.
Who Should Take Pre-Wedding Photos in Kyoto
I wanted to take our wedding photos in Kyoto for some pretty specific reasons. As we enjoy the classic and timeless vibe of our photos, let’s dive into those intriguing reasons that could totally match your style as well.
Let’s dive in!
If You Love Japan's Nostalgic Vibe, So You Should Take Wedding Photos in Kyoto
Japanese people often use the term ‘time slip (タイムスリップ)’ when they talk about time travel, whether it’s to the past or the future. I remember my husband saying while we were on a train in Kyoto, “I felt like I was traveling through time; even the train looks old,” since everything around us felt so vintage and nostalgic.
Kyoto really gives off a classic, time-travel feels because there are tons of traditional houses and buildings that have been kept as they are. It’s cool to see that people actually live in these places instead of just new constructions meant for tourists.
Life in Kyoto moves at a slower pace compared to other big cities. The chill vibe and less flashy buildings really make your traditional Japanese wedding kimono pop and look stunning.
If You Prefer Old Temples, So You Should Take Wedding Photos in Kyoto
When it comes to taking wedding photos in Kyoto while dressed in traditional kimonos, temples are the go-to spots. They have this calm and serene vibe that really goes well with the outfits.
Kyoto is packed with UNESCO heritage sites and ancient temples, but you don’t have to limit yourself to just the famous ones that you see in travel brochures. You’ll find plenty of charming temples all over the city that give off an amazing atmosphere.
We picked Bishamondo Temple because I'm a big fan of the Yamanashi area. I've visited the Yamashina Canal to check out the cherry blossoms, and I totally fell in love with them. So, considering the budget and the location, Bishamondo Temple turned out to be the best choice for us.
Just a heads up, though: taking wedding photos at temples in Kyoto isn’t free. Each place has its own fees, so it’s best to check with the studio handling your wedding plans for the details.
If You Appreciate a Tranquil Natural Setting, Consider Taking Wedding Photos in Kyoto.
Kyoto isn't just about its beautiful temples and shrines that give off those chill, old-school vibes; it's also packed with lots of gorgeous natural spots to check out.
I used to live and study in Kyoto, and I have to say, it’s a place where you can really just chill out and enjoy nature. Kyoto is gorgeous no matter the season, but summer really stands out with all the lush greenery that goes so well with the historic temples and old town.
Strolling through the town in Kyoto can totally lead to some amazing wedding photos. Every shot turns out gorgeous!
The Best Studio for a Wedding Photoshoot in Kyoto
If you are considering traditional Japanese wedding photos, you may wonder where to find a wedding photographer in Kyoto.
Based on our awesome experience, Enishi Wedding Photo Kyoto is a great pick. They have seasonal deals, and the service is top-notch. You can chat with them online or visit in person. They'll fill you in on everything you need, like location rental fees, outfits, makeup, and photographer options.
Shooting Time
The shooting time for each location is approximately 1.5 hours.
Shooting Data
They will take 150 shots at each location, which adds up to 200 shots for two locations.
Examples of Rental and Service Fees
- Photoshoot Package (starting from 150,000 Yen)
- Facility usage fees (starting from 10,000 Yen *Some temples in Kyoto are even more expensive than an entire photo package.)
- Designated photographer (around 30,000 Yen *in case you want to choose)
- Shiromuku (55,000~200,000 Yen)
- Shiromuku’s accessaries (around 10,000 Yen)
- Wataboshi, the headdress (around 10,000 Yen)
- Kimono underwear (5,500 Yen)
Tips for a Perfect Summer Wedding Photoshoot in Kyoto
Capturing wedding photos in Kyoto during the summer is a great choice because of the peaceful vibe and the sunny skies. The lush greenery makes everything look amazing, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the weather forecast in case it rains.
Importantly, one major concern when taking wedding photos in Kyoto during summer is the heat.
Choosing the Best Time of Day for Lighting
Summer in Japan is super hot. If you want to dodge the worst of the heat, it’s smart to snap wedding photos early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
We decided to snap some photos around 3 PM, which worked out well. We really like the warm glow of the sunlight and want it to hit the balcony through the space of leaves like ‘komorebi (木漏れ日)’ for those indoor shots.
Managing Kyoto’s Summer Heat
Once you decide on the best time of day for wedding photos, it’s important to be well-prepared. Since traditional Japanese bridal kimonos have a lot of layers and are pretty thick, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Ensure the Kimono isn’t Too Tight.
When you're putting on the inner layer of the kimono, there’s a point where the staff tightens the rope around your stomach. A kimono expert will ask if it's comfortable.
If it feels too tight and makes it hard to breathe, don’t hesitate to let them know to loosen it a bit. Otherwise, you might end up feeling unwell in the heat outside since it can be tough to breathe comfortably in a kimono.
Stay Hydrated
During the day, it's totally normal to take a sip of water. No need to stress about messing up your makeup—there’s a hairstylist and makeup artist around to do touch-ups for you. Plus, the staff will give you some sweet candy to give you a little energy boost!
Let's Take Wedding Photos in Kyoto
Ready to snap some amazing wedding photos in one of Japan's coolest spots, like Kyoto? Get set for your pictures to really pop in a place that’s all about vintage charm, tranquility, and stunning nature. It’s going to take your experience to a whole new level!
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