Kyoto Cherry Blossom Wedding Photos: Spring Guide from ¥154,000

This guide is for couples who are planning a spring trip to Kyoto and want wedding photos in kimono or a wedding dress under the cherry blossoms. You will learn when the blossoms usually open, why it helps to contact us early, what Keage Incline and Maruyama Park are like for a shoot, and what Bridal Salon Pure’s plans cost.

When do cherry blossoms bloom in Kyoto for wedding photos?

In most years, the cherry blossoms in Kyoto open around late March and stay into early April. The timing depends on the weather that year, so nobody can promise an exact peak date months in advance. A good approach is to choose a travel window inside that range and keep your shoot day a little flexible if your itinerary allows.

In Japan, cherry blossoms are traditionally seen as a sign of new beginnings, and their short bloom is often said to remind people to enjoy the present moment. Spring is also when many people in Japan start a new school or work year. That is why sakura (cherry blossoms) feel so fitting for a couple starting married life. For a wider look at how each season feels in Kyoto, see our four-season guide for travelers.

Why should we contact Pure early for a spring shoot?

Cherry blossom season is a busy time in Kyoto, and many couples hope for the same few weeks. The earlier you contact us, the easier it is to find a date that fits both your trip and the bloom period. Please ask us about availability when you contact us.

You can start from abroad. Pure offers online consultations, and you can send your questions in English through our contact form. Tell us your travel dates, whether you prefer kimono, a dress or both, and which locations you like. We will help you plan from there.

Keage Incline, Maruyama Park or a temple: which location suits you?

All three options below are on Pure’s location list. Each gives a different feel, so think about the mood you want in your photos.

Keage Incline

Keage Incline is a well-known cherry blossom spot in Kyoto. The straight lines of the tracks lead the eye through the photo, which works well for walking shots in a shiromuku (an all-white bridal kimono) or a flowing dress. You can see real shoots there on our Keage Incline wedding photo page.

Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park sits in Higashiyama, the same area of Kyoto as Pure. In spring it is a favorite place for hanami, the Japanese custom of gathering under the blossoms. Expect a festive mood and many visitors. Our photographer will look for angles that keep the focus on the two of you.

A temple with sakura

Our location list also includes temples such as Konkai Komyoji, Zuishin-in, Bishamondo and Daikakuji. Which temple grounds have blossoms in the frames you want can change by year and by spot, so please ask us when you contact us.

How much do cherry blossom wedding photos cost? Plans from ¥154,000

For blossoms, you will want a location plan. Here are the plans that include a location shoot. All prices are tax included.

Location costs may differ depending on the location. Shoots on weekends and Japanese national holidays add ¥33,000 (tax included). The full price list in English is on our page for international guests.

Kimono plans let the bride choose a shiromuku (traditionally a symbol of purity), an iro-uchikake (a colorful outer bridal kimono) or a hikifurisode (a long-sleeved bridal kimono). The groom wears a black montsuki, a formal kimono with family crests. Against pale pink blossoms, white looks soft and calm, while a red iro-uchikake stands out strongly.

How does a photo day fit into a spring Kyoto trip?

A location shoot at Pure follows a simple schedule, so you can plan the rest of your day around it.

• 10:00: The bride arrives at Pure and starts dressing, makeup and hair.
• 11:00: The groom arrives and gets ready.
• 11:30: Move to the location.
• 12:00: The shoot begins.
• 15:00: Back at Pure, change into your own clothes, a light hair set, any payment, and you are done.

You will still have the evening for dinner or a walk through Kyoto. Family members are welcome to come and watch.

What to bring

Please bring tabi (Japanese split-toe socks worn with kimono), undergarments and towels. If that is hard while traveling, Pure can prepare them for a fee; please tell your staff contact in advance. Makeup is provided, but you may bring your own if you prefer. Our 12-item checklist has more detail.

Small etiquette tips under the blossoms

• Do not pull or shake branches for petals. The trees are shared by everyone.
• Stay on paths and do not walk over roots or picnic areas.
• At temples, keep your voice low and give way to worshippers.
• Be patient with other visitors. Spring is busy, and a smile goes a long way.