Samurai Photo Experience in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto, Japan

Samurai Photo Experience

Outty Ranking 64 5.0 · 9 traveler reviews1.5 hoursFrom $55
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Outty Ranking

64/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 9 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Samurai Photo Experience worth booking?

Samurai Photo Experience is a 1.5-hour experience in Kyoto, Japan, from $55 per person. It scores 64 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 9 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
64 / 100
Rating
5/5 (9)
Duration
1.5 hours
From
$55 per person

Samurai Photo Experience – Now Accepting Reservations! Create unforgettable memories in Japan with our Samurai Photo Experience! Wear a kimono and take photos with a katana or a wagasa (Japanese umbrella). We also offer kimonos for women, babies, and children. After the photo shoot, enjoy a fun shuriken (throwing star) experience! Come and give it a try!

What you get

    About this experience

    Samurai Photo Experience – Now Accepting Reservations! Create unforgettable memories in Japan with our Samurai Photo Experience! Wear a kimono and take photos with a katana or a wagasa (Japanese umbrella). We also offer kimonos for women, babies, and children. After the photo shoot, enjoy a fun shuriken (throwing star) experience! Come and give it a try!

    What's included

    Included

    • 5 high-quality digital photos
    • Kimono Rental and Dressing for the Photo Shoot
    • Indoor Studio Photo Shoot (One Background of Your Choice)
    • Props such as katana (sword) or wagasa (Japanese umbrella)

    Not included

    • Hair Styling(This service is not available as an add-on, as there is no stylist available.)
    • Face Makeup(This service is not available as an add-on, as there is no stylist available.)
    • If you would like to upgrade to a Princess Kimono +¥1,000
    • If you would like to receive all photo data (per person) +¥3,000

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Kyoto

    Reception is on the 3rd floor. Please proceed upstairs to the 3rd floor.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Reception is on the 3rd floor. Please proceed upstairs to the 3rd floor.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Group size
    Up to 4 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    スタジオレンブラント

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • 階段しかない3階の店舗です。

    Photos

    Samurai Photo Experience in Kyoto, photo 2Samurai Photo Experience in Kyoto, photo 3

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 9 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Photo opportunities

    5 mentions

    The views and photo stops come up again and again.

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Traveler reviews

    9 verified traveler reviews for Samurai Photo Experience. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    9
    4 star
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    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
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    Sort
    yeseniag981 · June 2026

    Family Samurai photo shoot

    I loved this experience. It was done in an air conditioned studio which was great as it was hot outside. There are 3 backgrounds to chose from and all three were beautiful. The team of ladies were friendly and they had a great assortment of outfits to chose from. I came with my 5 year old and they wete great with him and patient. They took their time with us and did my hair beautifully. I would definitely recommend this experience.

    Response from the operator: Dear guest, Thank you so much for your wonderful review of your Family Samurai photo shoot experience with us. We are absolutely thrilled to hear that you loved every aspect, from our air-conditioned studio and beautiful backdrops to the friendly team who took the time and care with your family, including your 5-year-old. It brings us immense joy to know that your hair was styled beautifully and that we could provide such a comfortable and memorable experience for you. Our entire staff is dedicated to ensuring every guest, especially families with children, feels welcomed and enjoys a seamless and delightful journey with us. We pride ourselves on offering a wide assortment of quality outfits and creating a relaxing environment, even when it's hot outside. Your kind words are a great encouragement to our team. We are so pleased that you would recommend us and truly hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you and your family back to Studio Rembrandt again in the future for another unforgettable experience.

    via Tripadvisor

    Rabin N · April 2026

    Japanese photoshoot kimono experience.

    My wife booked a photoshoot with Rembrant photo studio. Kazuyo was amazing. The photo shoot was fun and props were spectacular and the photos are awesome. Thank you Kazuyo for an amazing experience. I highly recommend this shoot experience.

    Response from the operator: Dear valued customer, Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a wonderful review of your Japanese kimono photoshoot experience at Studio Rembrandt. We are absolutely thrilled to hear that you and your wife had a fun and amazing time, and we are especially delighted by your kind words about our staff member, Kazuyo. Her dedication to creating memorable moments is truly appreciated. It brings us immense joy to know that you found our props spectacular and were pleased with the awesome quality of your photos. Providing a unique and delightful experience, from the selection of beautiful kimono rentals to the final photographic masterpieces, is always our top priority at our photo studio. We are truly honored by your high recommendation and motivated by your positive feedback. We sincerely hope to welcome you back to our studio near Karasuma Oike Station for another delightful experience in the future. We look forward to creating more beautiful memories with you.

    via Tripadvisor

    Wander44268157912 · April 2026

    Fun and great experience to remember our trip to Japan

    It was a great experience overall. Both of the staff were wonderful and helpful. I am 193cm (6'3") and they were able to accommodate my large size. We walked in without appointment and they were able to make our day a memory.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for the wonderful review. We are delighted to hear that you had a great experience and that our staff were able to provide you with such wonderful and helpful service, especially in accommodating your size and making your day a cherished memory, even for a walk-in without an appointment. At our kimono rental photo studio, we strive to ensure every guest has a comfortable and unforgettable time. It fills us with joy to know that we could play a part in creating a special memory of your trip to Japan. We are located conveniently near Karasuma Oike Station, and we are committed to continuing to provide exceptional experiences. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you back again on your next visit.

    via Tripadvisor

    Kathryn U · March 2026

    Surpassed expectations!

    My family and I really enjoyed this experience - the options for the costumes and backdrop were beautiful. The stylist and photographer were both so patient and friendly - they put us all at ease. Highly recommend doing this experience in Kyoto!

    Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review! We are absolutely delighted to hear that your family's experience with us surpassed expectations and that you all enjoyed your time at Studio Rembrandt. It brings us great joy to know that you found our selection of costumes and backdrops beautiful, and that our stylists and photographers made you feel at ease with their patience and friendliness. We pride ourselves on creating memorable kimono rental photo studio experiences, and your kind words truly affirm our efforts. We are thrilled that you highly recommend this experience in Kyoto! We hope you will visit us again when you are near Karasuma Oike Station. We look forward to welcoming you back for another delightful session.

    via Tripadvisor

    corinneu387 · March 2026

    HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!

    Loved this photoshoot! The staff were so friendly and patient. So many options for kimonos and loved the backdrops. Would definitely recommend!!

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review and for your high recommendation of Studio Rembrandt! We are absolutely delighted to hear that you loved your photoshoot experience with us. It brings us immense joy to know that our staff were friendly and patient, and that you appreciated the wide selection of kimonos and our beautiful backdrops. Providing such a memorable and enjoyable kimono rental photoshoot is what we strive for every day at our photo studio. Your kind words truly motivate us to continue offering exceptional service. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you back to Studio Rembrandt again soon for another special experience!

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    1.5 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
    Price range
    $55 to $8,500
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    3
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 64

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)93
    Review evidence (18% weight)31
    Booking momentum (14% weight)22
    Value for money (12% weight)73
    Listing quality (10% weight)67
    Local standing (8% weight)56
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Samurai Photo Experience: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kyoto.

    How much does Samurai Photo Experience cost?

    +

    Prices start at $55 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kyoto usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Samurai Photo Experience take?

    +

    Plan for about 1.5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kyoto is not rushed.

    Is Samurai Photo Experience worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 64 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 9 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kyoto, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Samurai Photo Experience?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Samurai Photo Experience suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1.5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Samurai Photo Experience?

    +

    Around 3 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kyoto can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kyoto and add a light layer if any part of the 1.5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Samurai Photo Experience start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kyoto within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Kyoto?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Kyoto experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kyoto : Chopsticks Making Workshop with Engraving Option in Gion, Kyoto: Gion Hidden Gems & Geisha Culture Tour, Fushimi Inari Hidden Hiking Tour (Private Option Available). The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Kyoto?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Samurai Photo Experience?

    +

    Included: 5 high-quality digital photos; Kimono Rental and Dressing for the Photo Shoot; Indoor Studio Photo Shoot (One Background of Your Choice); and Props such as katana (sword) or wagasa (Japanese umbrella). Not included: Hair Styling(This service is not available as an add-on, as there is no stylist available; Face Makeup(This service is not available as an add-on, as there is no stylist available.); If you would like to upgrade to a Princess Kimono +¥1,000; and If you would like to receive all photo data (per person) +¥3,000. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Samurai Photo Experience?

    +

    Reception is on the 3rd floor. Please proceed upstairs to the 3rd floor. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Samurai Photo Experience?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    What happens to Samurai Photo Experience if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Kyoto. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Samurai Photo Experience?

    +

    Across 9 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, good for families. The views and photo stops come up again and again.

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