Kids' Maiko Dress-Up & Photo Shoot at Shiki Studio in Kyoto

Step into the heart of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage with an experience tailored just for your child. Imagine the joy and wonder on their face as they're gently transformed into an enchanting Maiko. Under the skilled hands of seasoned professionals, watch as your child is adorned in the timeless grace of traditional geisha attire, allowing them to feel and become a part of Kyoto's age-old traditions.

As the transformation unfolds, our accomplished photographers stand ready to capture each precious moment. These photos won't just be keepsakes; they'll be cherished memories that bring you back to the cobbled streets of Gion or the serene ambiance of Kiyomizu-Dera Temple, both of which are just a stone's throw away from our studio. But the experience doesn't end there. After your child's Maiko makeover, you're perfectly positioned to explore some of Kyoto's most iconic sights, making it an all-encompassing day of cultural immersion. So, why wait? Embrace the magic and nostalgia of Kyoto with this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Secure your spot today and gift your child a memory they'll treasure forever. Book now!

Tour Itinerary

Heading to Kyoto with your family? There's more to this beautiful city than just its landscapes and tasty treats. Give your kids a taste of its deep-rooted traditions with a fun kimono experience.

• Arrival: Set foot in the iconic Maiko-henshin Studio Shiki, nestled in the heart of Kyoto. Let the ambiance and history of the place envelop you, setting the tone for the day.

• Detailed Makeover Session: Delve deep into the world of Maiko beauty. Our makeup artists, with years of experience, employ time-honored techniques to bring out the signature Maiko appearance. Every brush stroke, every detail counts, ensuring the authenticity of the look.

• The Transformation Journey: The magic continues as your child slips into the exquisite Maiko attire. Handpicked from a vast collection, these outfits are designed to accentuate their youthful charm, making them an embodiment of Kyoto's rich culture.

• Professional Photoshoot: Against the meticulously designed sets that resonate with Kyoto's ancient aesthetic, our seasoned photographer will orchestrate a series of poses. Their expertise ensures every click captures the essence of your child's Maiko transformation, telling a story of tradition and innocence.

• Capturing the Heart of Kyoto: Beyond just photographs, these are snippets of your family's journey in this timeless city. They reflect the laughter, the awe, the shared moments of discovery, and the sheer wonder of experiencing a cultural immersion.

Essential Info for Your Shoot

• Time: Set aside about 2 to 2.5 hours for the full Maiko experience and photo session.

• Makeup Magic: We'll give you the classic Maiko look with special white foundation and lashes. If that's a bit too much, just let us know and we can keep it simple and natural.

• Hair Choices: We include a half wig in the package, but if you'd like a full wig or prefer not to wear one at all, that's totally okay.

• Pick Your Kimono: We've got a big collection – over 50 designs! And guess what? We're throwing in a pair of Japanese socks for free.

• Photos: We'll click two photos in a traditional room and two more with a shiny golden screen as your backdrop.

• Memories to Keep: We'll hand over a small photo book with the best snaps and a USB with all the pictures.

• Extra Snap Time: Once we're done, feel free to use an additional 10 minutes to take any more photos you'd like.

What's Included:

• Photos in a studio and a traditional tatami room

• An extra 10 minutes to snap some more pics

• A neat little photo book with your best shots

• Makeup to make you look like a Maiko

• Your pick of a pretty kimono

• A half wig and some lashes finish the look

• Comfy Japanese socks

• A USB with all your pictures on it

Not Included:

• Anything you buy or spend on the side

• Anything we didn't mention above

• Extra photos? That'll be JP¥1,100 for each one.

Meeting Point:

• Studio Name: Maiko-henshin Studio Shiki

• Address: 208-7, Shimizu 2-chome, Higashiyama District, Kyoto City, Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a Maiko experience?

Ans: A Maiko experience is a unique opportunity for your child to step into the world of traditional Japanese geisha culture. It involves a complete transformation, with your child dressed as a Maiko, which includes intricate makeup, hairstyling, and wearing a beautiful kimono.

Q: Is this experience suitable for adults too?

Ans: Absolutely! While our Maiko experience is primarily designed for children aged 5-10, we're more than happy to accommodate adults who wish to partake in this enchanting transformation.

Q: What is the duration of the Maiko transformation?

Ans: The Maiko transformation takes approximately 3 hours. During this time, our skilled professionals will work on makeup, hairstyling, and dressing your child in exquisite Maiko attire.

Q: Can I choose the kimono my child will wear?

Ans: Certainly! We offer an extensive selection of over 50 kimono designs. You can select the one that best suits your child's style and preferences.

Q: Is photography included in the package?

Ans: Yes, photography is an integral part of the experience. Our team of professional photographers will capture every memorable moment. You'll receive a beautiful 4-page photo book and digital copies of your photos on a convenient USB drive.

Q: Are there any age or height restrictions for children?

Ans: Yes, this experience is tailored for girls aged 5-10 and with a height range of 110 cm–140 cm to ensure the perfect fit for the kimono and Maiko transformation.

Q: Can I cancel or reschedule my booking?

Ans: We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please refer to our cancellation policy. Cancellations made at least 8 days prior to the selected date have no cancellation fee, and we provide flexibility for changes within specified timeframes.

Q: Do I need to know Japanese to participate?

Ans: No worries if you're not proficient in Japanese. Our studio can provide basic Chinese correspondence to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Q: What should I bring for the experience?

Ans: We recommend bringing a small bag for personal items, comfortable shoes for ease of movement, and any accessories you'd like to complement the kimono. Other than that, just bring your excitement, and we'll take care of the rest, ensuring you have a memorable Maiko experience!

Related Read: Top Museums to Visit in Kyoto