Caputured a Surprise Proposal in Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Hello everyone!
Today, I’m excited to share a recent surprise proposal shoot we had the pleasure of photographing in Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
First, let’s hear from our clients.
“Masa was fantastic! He was very responsive and did a great job with our engagement photos.”
Friendly Tourist: The Game Plan
This plan is designed to create a natural and casual proposal, even in busy public locations. The process works as follows: first, you approach me as a passerby and ask me to take a photo of you with your smartphone. I take a few shots, then return the phone. At that moment, you can immediately propose.
I will already be ready with my camera, so as soon as you’re prepared, I capture the moment naturally. During the proposal, you can take your time delivering your speech and enjoying your private moment. The best positioning is usually in the center of the path, and I provide simple guidance to ensure everything looks natural in the photos.
A key tip for making the most of this plan is to ask a few people to take your photos beforehand. This helps the proposal feel natural and seamless, without drawing attention.
Rain Turned Out to Be a Blessing
It was an honor to photograph a beautiful proposal in Arashiyama, Kyoto. Unfortunately, it rained that day, but the rain made the greenery even more vibrant, creating a truly lovely atmosphere. With almost no people around due to the weather, we had the perfect environment for the shoot. It felt almost like we had the place to ourselves — rain definitely has its advantages!
Most of all, I was thrilled to see the couple fully enjoying the moment. After the proposal, we visited nearby spots for an engagement photo session, capturing more beautiful memories.
Thinking of a Proposal in Kyoto, Japan?
If you’re planning a proposal in Japan and would like to capture this special moment with beautiful photos, it’s important to choose the right photographer — it’s not something you can entrust to just anyone. We provide full support, including local knowledge and up-to-date weather forecasts, to ensure everything goes smoothly and your proposal is captured perfectly.
Let’s create something meaningful together.
📍Location: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Address: Ogurayama Tabuchiyama-cho, Saga, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto 616-8394, Japan
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and serene locations. Located in the Arashiyama district on the western edge of Kyoto, this enchanting path is lined with towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the wind, creating a peaceful, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Walking through the grove, visitors are surrounded by natural beauty and the soft sounds of rustling leaves and creaking bamboo. The filtered light and vertical lines of the bamboo make it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.
What makes this place especially attractive for photo sessions—especially in summer—is that the entire path is shaded. Even during Kyoto’s intense summer heat, the grove remains relatively cool and comfortable, making it ideal for families with children or anyone looking for a relaxing experience.
Easily accessible by train, Arashiyama is also home to other popular attractions such as the Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Temple, and the scenic Hozugawa River.
Book a Session Anywhere in Japan
We’re based in Kyoto, 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:
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Available in English & Japanese