November is peak season in Kyoto. Wherever you go, it’s crowded, and finding a quiet place can feel almost impossible.

So when a couple told me they wanted a calm, peaceful place to get engaged, I knew exactly what to suggest: go early.

Why early morning?

The groom-to-be and I had been planning this for a long time. The two of them love nature, and they wanted a quiet, relaxed atmosphere for the proposal. In Kyoto, the best answer is almost always early morning. In November especially, the air is so clear and fresh that even a simple walk is worth it.

I know it can be hard to wake your partner up at dawn and bring her somewhere without telling her why. But it’s truly worth it.

The moment

We started at a small temple near the Philosopher’s Path. It was very quiet.

I was waiting in the temple garden when the two of them arrived. He asked me, “Excuse me, could you take our photo?” I happened to be nearby, so I said, “Of course!” and took a few pictures with their phone.

Then, suddenly, he got down on one knee and began his proposal.

I switched from the phone to my own camera and started recording the moment. There was nobody else around. She was so surprised, and I quietly kept shooting. It felt like the whole place was ours, just for the two of us.

“Nice to meet you”

After capturing their reactions, I introduced myself. She was so shocked, and she couldn’t hide her joy. It’s one of my favorite parts of every proposal.

A walk along the Philosopher’s Path

Next, we took a slow walk along the Philosopher’s Path. I took engagement photos along the way while we chatted. We continued south through Okazaki Park and past Heian Shrine.

With the 90-minute plan, it can feel like a little tour of the city, not just a photo session.

My favorite side of Kyoto

It’s been about 20 years since I first moved to Kyoto. Of course, the famous spots are beautiful, but what I love most are the small lanes, little shrines, and quiet places where few people go, the so-called hidden gems.

I’d love to think together about the right place for you, based on what you like. If you enjoy busy, famous places, we can shoot there too. But my goal is always the same: to choose the right place and the right atmosphere for the two of you.

Planning a proposal in Kyoto?

What matters most to me is that you and your partner are happy. Send me a message anytime, and let’s plan your story together.

Book a Session Anywhere in Japan

We’re based in Nagano, Kyoto and Tokyo, but we’re happy to travel anywhere in Japan for your photo session. Whether you’re traveling as a family, couple, or group, we’d love to help you capture natural moments in a meaningful setting.

Learn more or reach out here:

Photography Plans & Inquiry
Vacation Packages
Proposal Packages
Wedding Packages
See the Testimonials

Available in English & Japanese