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Offered languages
- English
Step into the heart of Kyoto and experience Japan’s ancient capital through a creative lens. From the iconic Kiyomizu-dera Temple to the hidden alleyways of Gion, this immersive photo tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a hands-on photography adventure tailored to your skill level.
This tour is perfect for absolute beginners wanting to learn camera fundamentals, and for seasoned photographers seeking a knowledgeable local guide to Kyoto’s most photogenic locations.
Wherever you’re starting from, this hands-on workshop will help you sharpen your skills and build confidence behind the camera. I’ll guide you step by step—teaching you how to use manual settings, understand the exposure triangle, and create strong compositions that capture the spirit of Kyoto.
You’ll learn how to control aperture, ISO, and shutter speed, while also exploring creative techniques like framing, light trails (in evening sessions), and storytelling through photography.
Irven Lewis Photography
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We will meet you at the statue of Izumo-no-Okuni, located near the Gion-Shijo Station in the historic Gion district of Kyoto
Itinerary
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1
Shirakawa Canal A serene, willow-lined waterway in the Gion district, perfect for capturing reflections, soft natural light, and Kyoto’s preserved architecture. With its quiet elegance and traditional bridges, this area offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s busier sites—ideal for slow, intentional compositions and storytelling shots.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Yasaka Shrine One of Kyoto’s most iconic shrines, known for its vivid vermilion gates, lantern-lit courtyard, and cultural atmosphere. Whether you're capturing traditional architecture or spontaneous moments during local ceremonies, Yasaka Shrine offers dynamic photo opportunities—especially in golden hour or at night when the lanterns glow.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
Ryōzen Kannon Temple Home to a striking 24-meter-tall statue of the Bodhisattva Kannon, this peaceful temple is a lesser-known gem ideal for capturing dramatic scale, symmetry, and spiritual atmosphere. The towering white figure set against Kyoto’s sky creates a powerful focal point, especially in soft morning or late afternoon light.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
Yasaka Pagoda Kyoto’s most iconic pagoda rises elegantly above the preserved streets of Higashiyama. Framed by traditional wooden townhouses and narrow stone paths, Yasaka Pagoda offers a classic, postcard-perfect shot—especially at sunrise or twilight when the streets are quiet and the lighting is soft. A must-shoot location for silhouette, symmetry, and leading lines.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Kiyomizu-dera Temple Perched on a hillside with sweeping views over Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a dream location for wide shots and architectural detail. Its massive wooden stage, dramatic rooflines, and seasonal backdrops—cherry blossoms in spring, fiery foliage in autumn—make it one of Kyoto’s most photogenic and atmospheric locations. Ideal for capturing depth, perspective, and scale.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
Fushimi Inari Taisha Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates winding through the forested hills, this Shinto shrine is one of Kyoto’s most iconic and photogenic sites. The repetitive patterns, shifting light, and deep cultural symbolism make it perfect for creative compositions and immersive storytelling. Arrive early or stay late to avoid crowds and capture the mystical atmosphere at its best.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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