The sun hadn’t even risen over Kyoto when the couple started their Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Elopement. We met with them at their hotel and started with hair and makeup and dressing, driven by the anticipation of a day they’d remember for a lifetime. With a hint of the morning mist in the air, they set out, determined to beat the crowds that often flock to Kyoto’s iconic sights.
Before the Crowds, Beneath the Bamboo
Kyoto in spring is like a painter’s canvas. Cherry blossoms blush pink, temples echo with timeless tales, and amidst it all, two people embarking on an Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Elopement. But as enchanting as Kyoto is, during peak seasons, it can be brimming with tourists. It’s a challenge to find a secluded spot, yet, with some guidance from our side and luck that always plays a factor, they managed just that.
Morning Vows in Arashiyama
Their love story unfurled beneath the towering bamboo stalks of the Arashiyama forest. Nature played the perfect host as whispers of the wind carried their vows in the nearby park, drenched in early sunlight, witnessing their intimate elopement ceremony. It was a serene picture, with every leaf and twig seeming to pause and honor their commitment.
Post the ceremony, with the sun now higher and the forest bathing in its golden glow, they ventured deeper. Here, they captured portraits, moments of laughter, gentle touches, and shared dreams. It wasn’t just about the photos; it was about immortalizing a feeling, a promise of forever.
From Personal Vows to Officially Married
Beyond the boundaries of the bamboo forest, another chapter awaited them. We scheduled an appointment at city hall to help them complete the legal marriage process. With careful preparation and guidance from our team, they were able to navigate the steps required to get legally married in Japan smoothly. The city hall visit, where they made their union official, was the last chapter of their short but sweet Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Elopement experience.
For those inspired by such tales and envisioning a similar journey of love, explore our Japan Elopement packages. Every couple has a unique narrative, and we’re here to make sure it’s told the way it deserves. Questions? Feel free to contact us.
Kyoto Elopement Wedding Photos
Unique Elopement Idea: Legally Getting Married in Japan
Erin & Ivan Kyoto Spring Elopement
Hello there!
I'm Henry and this is my elopement planning team in Japan
I LEAD Your Elopement Experience Design & Planning team integrating Photography & Cinematic videography.
For over a decade, we’ve travelled throughout Japan, planning and documenting over 300 elopements and intimate weddings for couples from around the world.
We want to know what draws you to Japan and what excites you about getting married here. We want to know what makes you feel seen and heard so that we can create an experience around the two of you that you’ll never forget.
I LEAD Your Elopement Experience Design & Planning team integrating Photography & Cinematic videography.
For over a decade, we’ve travelled throughout Japan, planning and documenting over 300 elopements and intimate weddings for couples from around the world.
We want to know what draws you to Japan and what excites you about getting married here. We want to know what makes you feel seen and heard so that we can create an experience around the two of you that you’ll never forget.
You don’t need to have a plan to get started. Get in touch here to check availability and schedule a complimentary planning consultation. We’ll help you plan a wedding in Japan that's all about the two of you — and the adventure of a lifetime.
Photography and cinematic videography travel is included for most locations accessible by standard public transportation or commercial flights, giving you the freedom to consider many meaningful locations across Japan without worrying about separate travel arrangements.
An album design credit is included and applied toward a custom-designed wedding album. The design process is handled in-house, with thoughtful pacing and layout, and priority given to Signature and Multi-Day couples. You’re free to decide later whether you’d like to move forward with the album or explore additional options.
Coverage focused on real moments, atmosphere, and how the day feels — not staged performance or forced timelines. Our couples are real people like you and we know how to help you feel comfortable and look natural on camera without posing or pressure.
Hair & makeup, kimono support, officiant services, and cultural elements are coordinated through a trusted core team and long-standing partners, with broader coordination across styling, guest needs, and experience-related services — with services added as needed, and everything managed calmly behind the scenes.
We guide you through what’s possible in Japan, what actually works well, and what fits your priorities — including handling of all access, privacy, and permits.
We plan the day so it works even if weather, crowds, or conditions change. You don’t need to make hard calls on the day or worry about “what if” scenarios — those are handled in advance.
Aside from our published photography and cinematic videography, you’re supported throughout the day — not just photographed. The day is actively guided and coordinated on-site, with logistics, timing, and decisions handled as they arise. Behind the scenes, real-time support from our office team ensures everything stays on track, so nothing feels rushed, stressful, or left to chance.