Wearing a kimono for photos in Kyoto is on many travelers' bucket lists. But how do you choose a kimono rental? Which colors look good on camera? How do you pose naturally? As a photographer who has photographed guests in kimono more than 100 times, I've put everything I've learned into this article.
🎎 How to choose a kimono
Which color?
- Light tones go with everything: white, beige and light pink look best against the stone paths of Gion
- Dark tones look elegant: navy, dark green and wine red are excellent in autumn leaf season and against the Senbon Torii at Fushimi Inari
- Patterns: large floral patterns photograph better than small, busy ones
- Obi: choose an obi belt that contrasts with the kimono's main color
Recommended kimono types
- Kofurisode: good for travel shoots, with medium-length sleeves that are easy to walk in
- Homongi: elegant and graceful, ideal for temples and tea rooms
- Iromuji: a solid-color kimono with a family crest, simple and refined
📍 Best places for kimono photos
- Light kimono → Gion / Ninenzaka: the gray tones of the stone paths bring out the kimono's gentle look
- Dark kimono → Fushimi Inari Taisha: red torii gates and a dark kimono make a striking contrast
- Understated kimono → Arashiyama bamboo grove: green bamboo with a plain kimono, full of Zen feeling
- Ornate kimono → around Yasaka Pagoda: an old-capital landmark with a gorgeous kimono
💃 Posing guide
Standing poses
- Glance back: turn your body slightly toward the camera and look back at it
- Walk-away shot: take a few natural steps away from the camera
- Lean on a wooden wall: turn slightly toward a machiya's wooden wall
Using props
- Wagasa umbrella: open it or rest it on your shoulder for an instant Japanese feel
- Uchiwa fan: hold it and wave it gently for a softer mood
💡 Photographer's tip: Try on and choose your kimono at the shop the day before. On the shoot day, have your hair done and get dressed in the morning, then arrive at the location around 9. Take small steps when walking in a kimono — it actually gives you the grace of a Kyoto woman.
👘 Kimono photo shoots
JLP PHOTO's kimono shoots include 1–2 hours of professional photography, and we know the best kimono rental shops nearby and the best shooting routes.