Surprise Sunrise Proposal in Hakone with Mt. Fuji
Finding Tranquility in Hakone's Sunrise
Nathan reached out, sharing his dream of proposing to Lizzy, not in Japan's bustling streets but in Hakone's serene landscapes, where Mt. Fuji nature could frame their special moment.
As a photographer who has fallen in love with Japan's hidden pockets of beauty, I couldn't have been more excited to help craft this chapter of their story.
After several conversations about what would make their moment memorable, we arranged everything to the minute. The iconic red Torii gate standing proudly—but with a twist that would make all the difference. I suggested, knowing how different Hakone feels in those quiet morning hours before tourists arrive. Nathan loved the idea immediately.
Hakone Shrine’s iconic Torii gates, including the striking one in Lake Ashi, stand as grand markers of this hidden forest sanctuary, blending history, nature, and serenity.
When Morning Light Meets Love
We set out while the city still slept, departing at an hour when most travelers were still dreaming. By 7 AM, we stood at the shores of Lake Ashi with absolutely no one else in sight. Usually surrounded by crowds, the famous Torii gate belonged only to Nathan and Lizzy.
The Torii gate stood majestically against the morning sky, its vibrant red creating a striking contrast with the surrounding greenery. As they walked hand in hand through this sacred gateway, I quietly captured their silhouettes, knowing these frames would soon hold even greater significance.
Our path continued to the nearby shrine, where centuries of prayers and wishes hang in the air.
Through my lens, I captured it all. The early hour blessed us with perfect conditions. The lake's surface was mirror-calm, creating perfect reflections of the surrounding mountains and, in the distance, the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji watching over their moment. They became engaged in a setting that seemed designed just for them.
After taking in its grandeur, we followed the stone path deeper into the forest, where the shrine itself lay hidden among towering cedar trees, exuding a quiet, spiritual energy.
We wrapped things up by the lake—such a peaceful spot to just take it all in.
After capturing their special moment and exploring more of Hakone's scenic spots for post-proposal portraits, I drove them back to Tokyo. On our drive back to their hotel, I shared some of my favorite celebration spots in the city—intimate restaurants where they could toast their new beginning, hidden gems that tourists rarely discover.
Planning Your Perfect Proposal in Japan
Every couple deserves a proposal that reflects their unique relationship. Like Nathan and Lizzy, I'm happy to arrange transportation from your hotel to our shooting location and back, especially for destinations like Hakone that sit beyond Tokyo's borders.
Whether you envision the tranquility of Hakone with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop, the seasonal beauty of Tokyo's gardens, or another special corner of Japan—creating a moment that feels authentically yours is what makes it memorable.
