Imagine this: You, wrapped in an elegant silk kimono, walking hand-in-hand with your beloved under the towering torii gates, the scent of fresh cedarwood in the air, and the soft sound of a distant temple bell marking the beginning of your forever. If that sounds like a dream, then Kyoto is where your wedding fairytale begins.
Steeped in history, Kyoto is home to some of Japan’s most sacred and visually stunning shrines and temples, offering couples the chance to say “I do” in a setting that blends ancient traditions with breathtaking beauty. Whether you envision an intimate Shinto ceremony or a grand temple celebration, Kyoto has the perfect spot for your special day.
Let’s dive into the best shrines and temples in Kyoto for a wedding, plus some essential tips to make your day as magical as the setting itself.
1. Shimogamo Shrine – A Love Story 2,000 Years in the Making
📍 Location: Shimogamo Shrine Official Website
Hidden within the sacred Tadasu no Mori forest, Shimogamo Shrine is one of Kyoto’s oldest Shinto shrines, dating back over 2,000 years. The shrine is dedicated to the gods of purification and good fortune, making it the perfect place to start your new life together.
💡 Why it’s perfect for your wedding:
- UNESCO World Heritage site – meaning your wedding photos will be nothing short of legendary.
- The shrine’s vibrant red torii gates create an unforgettable entrance.
- The surrounding nature offers a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere.
👘 Bonus: Couples often opt for a traditional Shinto wedding ceremony, which includes wearing a white silk kimono (shiro-muku) and participating in the san-san-kudo ritual—exchanging sake cups three times to symbolize unity.
2. Kamigamo Shrine – Where Heaven Meets Earth
📍 Location: Kamigamo Shrine Official Website
If you’re after something truly divine, Kamigamo Shrine is the place. One of Kyoto’s oldest shrines, it dates back to the 7th century and is famous for its peaceful gardens, wooden structures, and unique sand cones (tatesuna) that symbolize purification.
💡 Why it’s perfect for your wedding:
- Less touristy than other shrines, meaning a more private, intimate ceremony.
- The shrine is associated with harmony, peace, and longevity.
- The natural surroundings provide a tranquil and romantic setting.
🌸 Insider Tip: Spring and autumn are the best times for weddings here—cherry blossoms in April or fiery maple leaves in November make for a jaw-dropping backdrop.
3. Heian Shrine – Fit for Royalty
📍 Location: Heian Shrine Official Website
For couples who want grandeur and elegance, Heian Shrine is a stunning option. Built to honor the emperors of Kyoto, this shrine is a replica of the ancient Imperial Palace, offering a majestic, royal atmosphere for your big day.
💡 Why it’s perfect for your wedding:
- The massive torii gate at the entrance is one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks.
- Beautiful gardens, koi ponds, and cherry blossoms add to the fairytale vibe.
- It can accommodate larger wedding parties, so perfect if you want to invite family and friends.
📸 Photographer’s Dream: The shrine’s massive red pillars and elegant architecture will make your wedding photos look straight out of a history book.
4. Kiyomizu-dera – The Temple of Eternal Love
📍 Location: Kiyomizu-dera Official Website
Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most famous temples, and it’s deeply connected to love and romance. Legend has it that couples who visit the temple and successfully walk between the two “love stones” at Jishu Shrine (located within Kiyomizu-dera) will find true love.
💡 Why it’s perfect for your wedding:
- Perched on a hillside, the temple offers jaw-dropping views of Kyoto.
- The spiritual energy of the place is perfect for a meaningful, heartfelt ceremony.
- Rich history dating back to the 8th century.
📝 Pro Tip: A sunrise wedding here will feel like a scene from a movie—mist rolling over Kyoto, the city slowly waking up, and you, saying your vows in one of Japan’s most iconic locations.
How to Plan Your Kyoto Shrine Wedding
So, you’re officially in love with the idea of a Kyoto wedding. Now what? Here’s what you need to know:
✨ Can foreigners get married in a Kyoto shrine?
Yes! Many shrines welcome foreign couples, but you may need a local wedding planner or a translator to guide you through the process.
✨ How much does a shrine wedding cost?
Prices vary, but typically:
- Small, intimate weddings: ¥100,000–¥300,000 ($700–$2,000)
- Larger, grander ceremonies: ¥500,000+ ($3,500 and up)
✨ When is the best time for a Kyoto wedding?
- Spring (March–April): Cherry blossoms create an unforgettable atmosphere.
- Autumn (October–November): The maple trees turn Kyoto into a sea of red and gold.
- Winter (December–February): If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, snow-dusted temple wedding.
✨ What should we wear?
For a traditional Shinto wedding, brides wear a shiro-muku (white kimono) and grooms wear a black montsuki (formal kimono). Some couples choose to change into colorful iro-uchikake kimonos for the reception.
Capture Your Kyoto Wedding with an Expert Photographer
A Kyoto shrine wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you’ll want every moment beautifully captured. From the golden sunlight filtering through torii gates to your first look in a traditional kimono, these are memories worth preserving.
📸 Looking for a photographer who understands Kyoto’s magic? Check out my portfolio here: Your Happy Moments Photography Blog
🎥 Want to see my wedding photography packages? Explore them here: Photography Packages
📩 Have questions or want to book a session? Let’s chat! Contact me here: Get in Touch
Final Thoughts
Kyoto is more than just a wedding destination—it’s a place where history, culture, and romance intertwine to create something truly magical. Whether you choose a grand shrine like Heian Jingu or a peaceful sanctuary like Kamigamo, your Kyoto wedding will be a story worth telling for generations to come.
So, which shrine speaks to your heart? Let’s start planning your dream Kyoto wedding today! 💍✨
