How To Propose in Kyoto - The Ultimate Proposal Guide

Kyoto has everything you need for a romantic location – manicured gardens, magical temples, lush nature parks, and beautiful panoramic views. As Japan’s ancient capital, Kyoto’s cultural heritage and historical background make it the perfect spot if you want to explore Japan’s roots and meet warm locals. 

With the breathtaking views and sightseeing spots in Kyoto, it’s no surprise that it has become a popular city among travelers proposing to their partners. If you have been preparing to ask that big question, we’re here to help you! This guide explores everything about proposing in Kyoto – the best spots, recommended poses, and additional tips for a memorable experience.

The Best Proposal Locations in Kyoto

Kyoto definitely has a handful of beautiful spots where you can get down on one knee. Deciding where the proposal will happen depends on your own preferences, but we’re here to talk about the best ones you should check out.

Beautiful Temples and Shrines 

The temples and shrines in Kyoto are not your typical sightseeing spots. They feature serene scenery and peaceful surroundings, away from the bustling city center. Yes, they are the perfect location when planning your grand proposal. 

Temples and shrines in Kyoto are everywhere, but we want to highlight the following selections:

Okochi-Sanso Villa

Okochi-Sanso Villa in Arashiyama features multiple viewpoints where you can appreciate the city’s natural beauty. You can propose in one of the many networks of pathways, away from huge crowds so it’s just the two of you celebrating that special moment.

We highly recommend proposing to your partner in Okochi-Sanso Villa in autumn, when the fall foliage is just too mesmerizing to go unnoticed. You will also love the traditional architecture of the structures in this spot, which also makes a beautiful photoshoot backdrop.

The Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace

Imagine proposing to the love of your life inside a real palace – straight out of a movie scene, isn’t it? Imperial Palace Park features royalty vibes in its calming ponds, lush gardens, and forested sceneries. Like Okochi-Sanso, it also has different pathways surrounded by breathtaking views where you can get down on one knee and ask that life-changing question.

For more recommendations, make sure to read this guide: The Best Proposal Spots in Kyoto!

How To Hire a Proposal Photographer in Kyoto

You’re already stressing over preparing your grand proposal speech, so you can’t risk also stressing about how to capture the best shot. Instead of personally getting all the equipment you need and planning the best photo angle, why not hire a private proposal photographer?

Photo Trips can help you! They curate expert photographers in Kyoto and help you connect with them so you can plan the perfect proposal shots. These photographers are professional individuals who use outstanding equipment, guaranteeing you and your partner look the best in the photo!

Don’t know how to pose on the camera? Photo Trips’ private photographers can save the day! They will show you your best angles so you look handsome in your proposal shot.

Photo Trips has pre-packaged proposal photoshoots so it’s actually really easy to book them. The availability of the photographer is updated in Real-Time so you can book your photoshoot in just a few clicks.

Check out for example this package: Proposal Photoshoot in Kyoto with Private Photographer.

If you want to look for more options, you can also read this selection: Best Photographers in Kyoto.

How To Pose During The Proposal

Proposals only happen once in your lifetime. When it happens, you have to make sure you look the best when the photographer clicks the camera! To help you out, we prepared beautiful poses you can use as your inspiration so you and your partner look like the cutest couple!

Kneeling on One Knee – With A Shocked Girlfriend

The classic pose always begins with the guy getting down on one knee and the girl looking shocked. You have to ask the photographer to hide and place the camera at the centre where you and your girl can be seen.

A Back Hug – The Man Looking Proud

Another cute pose involves the man hugging the girl from behind, while the girl’s hands are on top of the guy so the ring is seen in the photo. This shot allows everyone to see how happy and in love the couple is, with both smiling ear to ear and eyes closed. 

Forehead Kiss - A Sign of Affection

A forehead kiss is also a beautiful proposal pose – one that shows the intimacy and love you have for one another. Ask your partner to place his/her hand on your chest so the ring is clearly seen in the picture. Another tip is to close your eyes so the shot looks more romantic and intimate.

Hands-Only Shot – Let Everyone See the Ring

Sometimes, the hand with the ring is enough to let everyone know your partner is getting hitched! This shot is perfect for shy couples out there who find posing on camera a bit awkward. Ask the photographer to zoom in on your hands and focus on the giant ring. Hold your partner’s hand gently to make the shot look romantic

Scooping the Girl Up – The Happiest Day for the Groom to Be

Finally, you can scoop your girl up for a cute pose! It’s like showing everyone how lucky and happy you are that your partner finally said yes to your life-changing question. Look at each other when you carry your partner so the photo can see your connection and love.

Additional Tips For Your Proposal in Kyoto

The preparations are starting to fall into place, and you really want to make sure everything is perfect on the day of your proposal. We are with you in this feat, so we also prepared our own tips and tricks to help you out.

Research all your venue options. Kyoto has several beautiful locations where you can propose, so it all boils down to each spot’s pros and cons. Weigh out the advantages and disadvantages, and choose a location you personally love.

You also have to consider the time when proposing. Early morning has fewer crowds than the afternoon, so it’s an excellent option when you prefer to ask the big question in peace. However, you should also take note that the sunset makes Kyoto’s surroundings look more stunning.

Get a photographer you can trust! Stop shouldering everything you need and look for an excellent photographer who can document each aspect of your proposal. Photo Trips can help you collaborate with reputable photographers to ensure the most beautiful proposal photos.

Finally don’t forget to check the weather and have a plan B just in case anything goes wrong. As long as you’re well-prepared for any circumstances, your proposal remains to be special and unforgettable.

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Proposing in Kyoto does not have to be challenging if you know how to pull all the stops. We hope this guide has helped you gain more insights regarding proposing in Kyoto.