Kiyosumi Gardens: A Serene Wedding Photo Spot in Tokyo
- boztsutomu
- May 28
- 3 min read
Updated: 6 days ago
Planning a wedding photoshoot during your trip to Japan?
If you're dreaming of a peaceful Japanese garden setting with stunning traditional charm, Kiyosumi Gardens might be the perfect spot.
Located right in the heart of Tokyo, this historic landscape offers a beautiful setting for both kimono and wedding dress photoshoots.
A Hidden Gem Among Tokyo's Nine Japanese Gardens
Kiyosumi Gardens is one of Tokyo’s nine official metropolitan gardens, each with its own unique history and layout. While we also recommend Koishikawa Korakuen (featured in another blog post), Kiyosumi Gardens stands out for its elegant simplicity and focus on water-centered design.
What Makes Kiyosumi Gardens Special?
Unlike many larger Japanese gardens, Kiyosumi is a more compact, walkable garden, with various photogenic spots clustered closely together. This allows for a rich and varied photo gallery — all without needing to walk long distances in traditional attire.
At the heart of the garden is a large pond (Dai-sensui), around which winding paths, stone bridges, and carefully placed rocks and trees create beautiful scenes from every angle.
The “Ryotei” teahouse, extending over the water, is a standout location for serene, reflective photos.
Perfect for Both Kimono and Wedding Dress Shoots
While Kiyosumi Gardens is traditionally associated with kimono and wafuku shoots, the neutral, natural tones and reflective waters make it equally suited for Western-style wedding attire. The contrast between a flowing white gown and the lush greenery or calm waters offers a stunning visual.
Whether you're planning a full wedding photo session, a romantic elopement, or an anniversary shoot in Tokyo, this location gives you a timeless, elegant backdrop.
A Glimpse into History
Originally a samurai residence during the Edo period, the site was acquired in the Meiji era by Yataro Iwasaki, the founder of the Mitsubishi conglomerate. He transformed it into a garden for entertaining guests and company employees.
After surviving both the Great Kanto Earthquake and World War II, the garden was donated to the city and opened to the public in 1932. Today, it remains a treasured historical and cultural landmark in Tokyo.
Important Info: Photography Permits and Access
To hold a professional photoshoot at Kiyosumi Gardens, a permit is required. You’ll need to apply in advance through the garden’s management office.
Approval is generally smooth if you provide your shooting schedule and purpose. However, bookings can get full during peak seasons (spring and autumn), so we recommend applying at least 2–4 weeks in advance.
Location Details:
📍 Address: 3-3-9 Kiyosumi, Koto-ku, Tokyo
🚉 Nearest Station: 3-minute walk from Kiyosumi-Shirakawa Station (Toei Oedo Line / Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line)
🕘 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM)
🎫 Admission: ¥150 for adults, free for children
Final Thoughts
Kiyosumi Gardens offers a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s bustling streets and a truly photogenic setting for couples who want to capture both the natural beauty and cultural depth of Japan. With water, stone, and seasonal foliage as your backdrop, your photos will carry a timeless elegance — whether you're wearing a traditional kimono or a flowing wedding gown.
If you're considering a photoshoot in Tokyo and want something elegant yet accessible, Kiyosumi Gardens is absolutely worth a visit.
We are Tokyo based wedding & family photography studio
bozphoto & Styles is a Tokyo-based photography studio specializing in wedding, engagement, and elopement photography. With a focus on documentary-style photography, we aim to preserve the emotions and stories behind each image, allowing you to relive those memories for years to come.
Whether an intimate elopement in the heart of Tokyo, or a stunning pre-wedding shoot amidst Japan’s breathtaking landscapes, we strive to deliver photographs that are both meaningful and unforgettable.
we believe that every picture tells a story. Let us help you tell yours.
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