Eikando Hall Rental Guide

Home

Play Guide

Kyoto Kimono Photography Location Guide

Eikando Kimono Rental Guide

Why choose Eikando for your kimono?

Eikando Temple (Zenrin-ji Temple) is renowned as "Kyoto's premier spot for autumn foliage," and this reputation is well-deserved.

The temple grounds boast over 3,000 maple trees, creating a breathtaking spectacle of vibrant colors and rich hues in autumn. Wearing a kimono here will transport you to a living, breathing classical painting.

Symphony of Colors

The gradual change in color from pale yellow and orange-red to deep crimson at Eikando Temple is similar to the "gradient dyeing" technique used in traditional kimono dyeing.

Architectural View

The numerous study rooms, corridors, and windows of the temple naturally form picture frames, making them ideal for composing portraits and kimonos.

artistic conception

As an important Zen Buddhist temple, Eikan-do's tranquility resonates with the understated and restrained beauty embodied in the kimono.

Eikando Kimono Rental

Eikando Kimono Photo Location

Release Pond & Jinyun Bridge

Shooting Highlights: The pond reflects the vibrant red leaves and you in your kimono, creating a symmetrical and breathtaking scene.

Kimono Pairing: We recommend warm-toned kimonos (ochre, vermilion, golden yellow) to blend seamlessly with the autumn foliage; or choose cooler tones like deep blue or dark green to highlight your figure against the backdrop of the red sea.
Best Time: 2 PM to 4 PM, when the sunlight is at an angle, the maple leaves are translucent, and the water shimmers with light.

Pagoda and Stone Steps

Shooting Highlights: The Tahota Pagoda at Eikando Temple is an iconic structure, with the surrounding stone steps and maple trees creating a layered and structural effect.

Kimono Pairing: Choose a traditional and elegant visiting kimono or a irotomisode (colored tomesode) to complement the solemnity of the pagoda.

Composition Suggestions: Use the pagoda as a background element, with the subject standing in the middle of the stone steps, using the maple leaves as a foreground frame.

Academy Corridor

Shooting Highlights: Sitting by the veranda, framed by Japanese sliding doors (kata) and window lattices, with the autumn leaves of the garden as the canvas.

Kimono Pairing: Choose a more casual style such as a komon or tsuke-shita (蒼け下げ) to create a relaxed feeling of "enjoying autumn leaves at home."

Action Instructions: Sit sideways, lean against the railing and gaze into the distance, or pose as if admiring the garden, showcasing the beauty of tranquility.

Kiyomizudera + Eikando one-day tour

Kiyomizudera + Eikando itinerary

Regarding the distance between the shops and Eikando Temple, we recommend the following route combination.

This not only solves the transportation problem but also allows you to enjoy two classic experiences in one day.

🚌 Option A: Classic and Efficient Tour

9:00 AM Arrive at Kanwa Shop, choose a kimono and get your styling done (60-75 minutes)

10:15 AM Walk to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, visit and photograph key attractions (approx. 2 hours)

12:30 PM Enjoy lunch around Kiyomizu-dera Temple or Ninenzaka (1 hour)

1:30 PM Take a city bus from Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop (approx. 15-minute ride) directly to Eikando Temple

2:00 PM - 4:30 PM Explore Eikando Temple in depth, focusing on kimono photography during the autumn foliage season

4:30 PM Take a taxi or bus from Eikando Temple back to Hanwa Kimono Shop (approx. 15-20 minute ride)

5:00 PM Return your kimono to the shop.

🚕 Option B: Comfortable and Premium Tour

The morning itinerary is the same as Option A.

In the afternoon, take a taxi directly from Kiyomizu-dera Temple to Eikando to maximize time and energy for photography.

After the visit, you can also take a taxi back to the shop to return the items.

🚶 Option C: Hiking and Wandering

The morning itinerary is the same as Option A.

In the afternoon, stroll from Kiyomizu-dera Temple along the Philosopher's Path to Eikan-do Hall . This route is exceptionally beautiful in spring and autumn, and is a scenic spot in itself.

After the visit, return by bus.

📸 Photography Support

🪭Props rental

Japanese paper umbrellas and fans are provided free of charge to add charm to your Gion photoshoot.

📷Photography

We offer professional kimono photography services in Kyoto, capturing unforgettable travel memories.「Kyoto Kimono Photography Service」

🧳Item storage

Travel light and we will take good care of your personal belongings.

View Kanwa Kimono rental plans🔥

💡 Eikando Kimono Experience (FAQ)

Answering all your questions about kimono rental

💡Is it difficult to get to Eikando from your store?

Our designed "Kiyomizu-dera Temple + Eikando Temple" combination route makes transportation both logical and efficient.

💡What's the best season to visit Eikando Temple? Is autumn the only option?

Autumn (the season of red leaves) is the peak season, but the cherry blossoms and new greenery in spring, the lush greenery in summer, and the snow scenery in winter each have their own unique charm, and there are far fewer tourists.

💡Wouldn't it be tiring to visit Eikando while wearing a kimono?

The terrain inside Eikando Temple is somewhat hilly, but the main approach and classic photo spots are easily accessible.

💡If I only want to visit Eikando, what's the best way to plan my trip?

We suggest you make an appointment to arrive at the store around noon, dress up, and then take a taxi directly to Eikando. After spending 2-3 hours sightseeing and taking photos, you can then take a taxi back to return the items.

💡Do I need to make an appointment in advance?

Especially during peak seasons such as cherry blossom season and autumn leaf season, it is strongly recommended to make an appointment in advance to ensure your preferred time slot and a wider selection of styles.