Kyoto tour with photo session

Step into Kyoto’s most iconic scenes with a guided private tour that blends cultural discovery with professional photography.

This exclusive experience leads you through ancient shrine paths, traditional streets, and Kyoto’s most revered temple, all while creating a personalized visual story of your journey.

Unlike ordinary tours, this experience is crafted to balance immersive exploration with high-end photography. Complimentary iPhone photos will be taken naturally throughout the walk, allowing you to relax and stay in the moment. At the perfect time for golden hour light, we will conclude the day with a dedicated 45-minute professional photo shoot near the beautiful streets of Gion.

Guests who wish to wear a kimono are welcome—kimono shop recommendations and advice are available by request.

See the Photo Tour Gallery Here!

Highlights of the Experience:

• Private walking tour through Kyoto’s cultural heart

• Casual iPhone photography throughout the journey, complimentary (and edited)

• 45-minute professional photo session at Ninenzaka with expert editing

• Receive 100+ professionally edited images in a private online gallery

• Personalized insights into Kyoto’s traditions, architecture, and culture

Price: $699 (up to 6 guests)
Includes tour guiding, casual iPhone photography, a 45-minute professional photo session, and 100+ edited images.
Total tour time is 4-4.5 hours.

More than 6 guests or multiple families? Please contact us before booking. Additional fees may apply.

Our route

Kyoto Station: We meet at the center of Kyoto for a smooth beginning. Detailed meeting instructions will be provided after booking. Meeting time varies from noon to 2pm depending on season, so please check booking calendar.

Fushimi Inari Shrine: Begin your journey through the legendary tunnels of red torii gates. Your guide will share fascinating history and stories as we ascend partway up the sacred mountain, capturing casual iPhone snapshots at less crowded, photogenic points.

Private Taxi to Ninenzaka Area: Skip the crowded trains—relax as we arrange a quick taxi ride (approx. 1,500-2000 yen per cab [~$10-$15 USD], payable directly to driver) to Kyoto’s preserved historic district.

Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka: Stroll the atmospheric streets lined with traditional wooden buildings. Explore, shop, and savor Kyoto’s charm while enjoying casual snapshots and expert guidance.

Kiyomizu Temple: Conclude the sightseeing portion with a guided visit to Kiyomizu Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Admission to the rear shrine is optional and not included; approximately 500 yen cash/person if you wish to enter. We recommend it, though!)

Professional Photo Shoot (Final Highlight):
After visiting Kiyomizu Temple, we’ll begin your dedicated 45-minute professional photo session in the beautiful surroundings of Gion— perfectly timed for golden hour light. This ensures you leave Kyoto not only with memories, but with extraordinary photos capturing your journey.

faq!

How much walking is involved?
This is a moderately active walking tour. You’ll walk through shrine paths, historic streets, and temple areas. Comfortable footwear is strongly recommended. For those wearing kimonos, we strongly recommend wearing comfortable shoes and then, if desired, bring the sandals with you in a little bag to change into for professional photos.

What happens if it rains?
The tour will proceed rain or shine. In the case of rain, we will adjust the photography locations to maximize beautiful covered areas and maintain the best possible experience. (Please check the contract for more on our rain policy.)

Can I wear a kimono?
Yes! We are happy to recommend shops that allow hotel returns or next-day returns to accommodate our full tour schedule.
If you plan to rent a kimono, please book your rental appointment at least 1.5 hours before the tour meeting time.
Late arrivals will result in a shortened tour and may reduce your professional photoshoot time.

Does the start time change depending on the season?
Yes, start times vary throughout the year to match the best lighting conditions for your photo session.
The available start time for your selected date will be clearly shown on the booking calendar.
Please note that start times cannot be changed, as they are carefully timed to optimize your experience.

Is the schedule flexible if I want to spend more time shopping?
To ensure you receive the best lighting for your professional photo session, we follow a set overall schedule. We will allow time for short browsing, but staying on pace is important to complete the tour in the best conditions.

Will there be casual photos taken during the tour?
Yes! Complimentary iPhone photos will be taken casually throughout the tour to capture natural moments. These will be shot in RAW on an iPhone and professionally edited to be added to your gallery.

How many people are included in the tour price?
The tour price includes up to 6 guests traveling together (family, couple, or friends).
If you have more than 6 guests or are two separate families or unrelated groups wishing to combine, please contact us before booking.
Additional fees may apply to ensure the quality of your experience and photography coverage.

When is the professional photo shoot?
The professional 45-minute photo session takes place at the end of the tour, after visiting Kiyomizu Temple. It is timed carefully to align with Kyoto’s golden hour light. It will take place around Gion, including photos with traditional architecture and nature.

How many edited photos will I receive?
You will receive 100+ professionally edited photos delivered in a private online gallery.

When will I receive my photos?
Your gallery link will be sent to you within 2–3 weeks after the tour date.