An Early Morning Yes in Kyoto
Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, remains one of the most sought-after destinations for visitors. Rich in history and lined with stunning traditional architecture, it is often a non-negotiable stop on any Japan itinerary, even though it sits about two hours away from Tokyo by train.
Last week, I had the privilege of working with Vincent, a client from Los Angeles, who was planning a trip to Kyoto with his girlfriend, Krissy.
During our initial conversations, Vincent shared that he wanted to surprise Krissy with a proposal. He originally imagined popping the question while they were dressed in kimonos at a scenic location near a restaurant and hillside view, possibly around Yasaka Pagoda. Loved by many as one of Kyoto’s most representative historical landmarks, the pagoda beautifully captures the atmosphere of the ancient capital.
However, I advised him that Kyoto becomes very busy during the day, especially once kimono rental shops open around 10:00 a.m., which would likely make the area extremely crowded.
With that in mind, we chose Sannenzaka, a charming stone-paved slope leading toward the renowned Kiyomizu-dera. The path itself is filled with history and character, with several theories surrounding the origin of its name.
Midway up the slope stands the Koyasu Pagoda, known for prayers for safe childbirth. Like many corners of Kyoto, this location carries layers of cultural meaning, making it an ideal and intimate setting for such a significant moment.
On the day of the proposal, I prepared a bouquet upon Vincent’s request and arrived early to ensure everything ran smoothly. We coordinated via live location sharing on WhatsApp, and I recommended that they wear neutral, plain colors to complement the historic surroundings.
When the moment finally came, everything unfolded just as we had envisioned. Vincent went down on one knee, and for a few minutes, it felt like the entire street belonged to them.
We began the shoot around 6:45 a.m. to catch the 6:55 a.m. sunrise, and waking up early proved to be worth it. The crowd was minimal, with only about four or five people nearby.
As Vincent proposed, a few strangers quietly cheered, adding an unexpectedly heartwarming touch to the morning. It was beautiful in the most human way.
Moments like these remind me why I do what I do. Strangers celebrating strangers, two people stepping into a new chapter, and the quiet magic of an early morning in Japan.
If you are planning a proposal or engagement in Japan, I would love to help you plan every detail, from location scouting to seamless coordination on the day itself. Let’s create a moment that feels intentional, intimate, and truly yours.
Reach out and let’s start planning your story in Japan.
