Cinematic Japan Elopement & Portrait Photographer

Yes, absolutely! When I’m not behind the camera, I’m usually out scouting for “hidden gems”. I know exactly where and when the seasonal flowers are peaking, and I’ve found plenty of stunning spots that the internet hasn't discovered yet. Just tell me what you have in mind, and I’ll suggest a few perfect locations for you to choose from!

Most shrines, temples, and gardens in Tokyo (or Kyoto) do require a special permit for professional shoots in wedding attire. But don’t let the paperwork stress you out! I’ll take care of the entire application process for you to keep things totally seamless.

Also, if you’re visiting during peak seasons like spring or autumn, exploring spots just outside of Tokyo or Kyoto can offer much more flexibility. Many popular parks and gardens do not issue a photography permit during busy season due to the crowds, unless we book a private venue.

I also know plenty of beautiful public spots that don't require a permit at all—I’m happy to suggest a mix of options so we can find the perfect fit for your vision!

• Cherry Blossoms (Sakura): If you’re dreaming of those iconic pink petals in Tokyo, aim for late March to early April. However, we can find early blooms in February or later ones in early-mid April in Tokyo. In cold regions, mid-late April is the best time for cherry blossoms!

• May / October : The weather is comfortable (not too hot, not too cold), and May brings stunning flowers like Wisteria and nemophila. In October, we can find fields of vibrant colors of cosmos in the middle of Tokyo and locations are generally less crowded than during Sakura season.

• Autumn Colors: Fall foliage starts a bit later in Tokyo. For those deep reds and oranges, late November to early December is your best bet. In cold areas like Nagano and Kawaguchiko, colors start to change from early November.

• Winter (December – February): For those seeking a quiet, intimate vibe. While it is cold, the skies are usually bright blue, and other areas might have snow-dusted backdrops, creating a magical atmosphere without the crowds. And it's the best time to get a clear view of Mt. Fuji! It creates a magical, dramatic atmosphere without the crowds.

Japan has a few major holiday periods where the whole country is on the move! During these times, popular spots get very crowded, travel costs spike, and some locations actually close. If you’re still in the planning phase, I’d recommend trying to avoid:

• Golden Week (Late April – Early May): This is the biggest holiday week in Japan. Traveling outside of Tokyo will be very difficult during this period as all Shinkansen (bullet trains) and flights are booked well in advance. Major tourist spots like Kyoto and Kawaguchiko will also be incredibly packed with people.

• Obon (Mid-August): Not only are the crowds a factor, but mid-August is also the peak of Japan's intense summer heat.

• New Year’s (End of December – Early January): Many traditional gardens, parks and shrines close for the holidays. The shrines that are open become the site of "Hatsumode" (the first prayer of the year), meaning they'll be flooded with thousands of people.

I focus strictly on the photography, but I’ve spent years working with some of the best vendors in the business. If you need a hand with anything else, I’m happy to refer you to my favorite wedding planners, florists, and makeup artists to help complete your team!

If it’s just a light rain, We can switch the time or we go ahead as planned! We can use clear umbrellas, which add a beautiful, romantic atmosphere—plus, it usually means no crowds. If we’re facing heavy rain or extreme weather, we’ll simply reschedule to another date that works for everyone.

It means your photos are treated with a personal touch! I personally edit every single image in Lightroom (+Photoshop), carefully adjusting the color grade to bring out the emotions and atmosphere of the day. I don’t use batch AI editing or outsource my work; every photo stays in my care and is polished by my own human eyes.