1. Armor
Choose Your Warrior Style
Our studio holds a collection of more than 30 sets of Samurai armor. Around 7–10 sets are displayed at each studio at any given time, and the lineup changes monthly—giving returning guests the opportunity to discover different armor with each visit. The armor available for the experience is not antique. Each set is a high-quality, authentic-style reproduction, newly crafted by skilled Japanese artisans. Beautifully maintained, the armor features vivid decoration, impressive weight and presence, and exceptional attention to detail. Its clean, polished condition makes it ideal for photography and comfortable for first-time guests to wear with confidence. At SHOGUN STUDIO JAPAN, you can wear Samurai armor made by Marutake, one of Japan’s renowned armor makers. Marutake armor has been used in Samurai TV dramas, films, and other professional productions. As an official authorized dealer of Marutake armor, we can also assist guests who wish to purchase a particular set after their experience. Our armor is divided into three categories—A, S, and SS Rank—based on quality, specifications, and value. The rank selected affects the available experience and photography options.
A Rank: Valued at approximately ¥500,000–¥1,000,000
S Rank: Valued at approximately ¥1,000,000–¥3,000,000
SS Rank: Valued at approximately ¥3,000,000 and above
These values refer to the armor itself and are not photography-session prices. Photography session rates are available here, with experiences starting from ¥20,000. Each set of armor weighs approximately 15–25 kg (33–55 lbs). Wearing it allows you to experience the powerful presence and substantial weight that Samurai warriors once carried into battle. The feeling of being surrounded by real, heavy armor is something that simply cannot be experienced through photographs alone. Choose armor inspired by your favorite Shogun or Samurai warrior for your photo session. Our collection includes designs inspired by legendary historical figures such as Oda Nobunaga, Tokugawa Ieyasu, and Date Masamune, along with many other distinctive styles. If you are not sure which armor to choose, trust your first impression and let your instincts guide you. The armor you choose may become one of the most unforgettable parts of your experience at SHOGUN STUDIO JAPAN.
2. Kimono
Choose Your Kimono
Kyoto is home to a rich kimono culture that has been refined and passed down through generations. At our studio, we do not offer the mass-produced, printed kimono commonly found at tourist rental shops. Instead, our collection features authentic hand-painted Kyo Yuzen kimono, created brushstroke by brushstroke by female kimono artists active in Kyoto. Every color, delicate gradation, and intricate detail is carefully applied by hand, creating a depth and beauty that simply cannot be reproduced through printing. From a distance, the kimono appears vibrant and elegant; up close, the extraordinary precision and craftsmanship become even more apparent. Once worn, its presence enhances not only the appearance of the wearer, but also their expression and entire silhouette. The Kyo Yuzen kimono currently available at our studio are exceptional pieces with an original retail value of approximately ¥1.8 million each. However, the true value of this experience is not simply in wearing an expensive kimono. It lies in experiencing the time, skill, artistry, and dedication that have gone into creating each piece, and in discovering the beauty of authentic Japanese craftsmanship firsthand. As a photography studio, we also believe that wearing a beautiful kimono is only part of the experience. We want to preserve its beauty as a work of art through photography. The richness of hand-painted colors, the depth of the patterns, the graceful movement of the sleeves, and the way the fabric changes in the light all become part of the image. Our goal is to create photographs that could only exist with that particular person, wearing that particular kimono. Wear something authentic. Experience true craftsmanship. Preserve the moment as art. A Kyo Yuzen kimono discovered in Kyoto is more than simply something to wear — it is an opportunity to experience Japanese aesthetics, artistry, and tradition with your own senses. In the future, we also plan to expand our collection with designer kimono that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary creativity, bringing even greater individuality and artistic expression to the experience.
Kyo Uzen Kimono (SS rank)
D) Brush-Dyed (Deep Purple)
A) Sumi-Dyed・Hand-Painted (Sakura)
B) Kyoto Hand-Painted Furisode (Tulip)
C) Kyoto Hand-Painted Black Komon (Peony)
Designers Kimono (S rank)
D) Brush-Dyed (Deep Purple)
E) *Coming soon
F) *Coming soon
Mens Kimono
A) *Coming soon
Children
A) Ages 3-4
B) Age 7
3. TEA CEREMONY & MATCHA EXPERIENCE
TEA CEREMONY
Experience an authentic Kyoto Urasenke Tea Ceremony in a traditional Japanese tea room while dressed as a Samurai. Kyoto is the heart of Japanese tea culture, and Urasenke, founded in Kyoto, is one of Japan’s most prestigious and respected schools of tea ceremony. This special program offers an enjoyable and accessible introduction to the beauty, etiquette, and spirit of the Urasenke tea tradition. During this approximately 30-minute tea ceremony experience, you will learn how matcha is prepared and enjoyed while discovering the Japanese spirit of “Omotenashi” and “Wabi-Sabi”, as well as the historical connection between Samurai and the Way of Tea. Tea ceremony was deeply connected to Samurai culture, and many famous warriors during the Sengoku period practiced and valued the Way of Tea. Enjoy freshly prepared matcha together with seasonal premium Japanese sweets from “Sasaya Iori”, a renowned Kyoto confectionery with over 300 years of history. Experience Kyoto through all five senses—the aroma of matcha, the beauty of traditional Kyoto sweets, the tranquility of an authentic tea room, and the spirit of the Samurai.
MATCHA EXPERIENCE
Learn how to prepare your own matcha under the direct guidance of a professional from Kyoto’s Urasenke tea tradition, while dressed as a Samurai or Kimono. Urasenke is one of Japan’s most prestigious schools of tea ceremony, with deep roots in Kyoto. During this experience, an Urasenke tea professional will carefully teach you the proper way to prepare usucha (thin matcha), including how to handle traditional tea utensils and use a bamboo whisk. After learning the techniques and meaning behind the preparation, you will make and enjoy your own bowl of matcha. Your matcha is served together with seasonal premium Japanese sweets from “Sasaya Iori”, a renowned Kyoto confectionery with over 300 years of history. This is a special hands-on experience combining Samurai culture, Kyoto’s Urasenke tea tradition, and the art of preparing your own matcha.
*Held at our HOTEL EMION KYOTO Studio.
*Includes 5 Photos / Group
4. Studio Shooting
Samurai, Ninja & Kimono
ARASHIYAMA STUDIO
Located in Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most iconic sightseeing destinations, our studio offers samurai armor, ninja, and kimono photo experiences. Wear impressive samurai armor or beautiful kimono, pose with authentic props such as swords, and enjoy a cinematic, fashion-inspired photoshoot. This is more than simply wearing a costume and taking souvenir photos—our staff will carefully guide you through poses, sword stances, and facial expressions. Even if it is your first time wearing armor or kimono, you can feel confident and receive natural, powerful, and beautiful photographs. While respecting the timeless charm of Japanese tradition, the Arashiyama Studio creates modern and stylish imagery. It is ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, and friends looking for a memorable experience during their Kyoto trip.
* A diverse collection of original samurai armor
* Authentic ninja costumes for both adults and children
* Photoshoots at a temple
* Photoshoots at iconic locations such as Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove
* Short cinematic video shoots in the mountains or at shrines while dressed as a samurai or ninja
* Authentic photographic props, including swords, spears, bows, and a fog machine
* Professional photography by our team
HOTEL EMION KYOTO STUDIO
Enjoy an authentic samurai armor photoshoot inspired by legendary historical warlords such as Tokugawa Ieyasu and Takeda Shingen. Many of the armor sets we use are made by a renowned Japanese armor workshop whose work has appeared in Japanese films, television dramas, and historical TV productions. Wear finely crafted armor and experience the extraordinary feeling of stepping into the role of a real samurai commander. Our studio also features Japanese-style photo spaces, allowing you to combine your armor photoshoot with other cultural experiences, including a traditional tea ceremony supervised by Kyoto’s Urasenke tea school. This studio is ideal for history and samurai enthusiasts, families wishing to experience Japanese culture together, and anyone looking to create memories beyond an ordinary souvenir photo.
* Samurai armor inspired by famous Sengoku-era warlords, including Tokugawa Ieyasu and Takeda Shingen
* Opportunity to wear authentic armor made by a workshop whose pieces have been used in historical TV dramas and films
* Traditional tea ceremony experience supervised by Kyoto Urasenke
* Kimono rental for photoshoots or tea experiences
* Conveniently located one stop from JR Kyoto Station, directly by Umekoji-Kyotonishi Station
* Restaurants available inside the hotel
* Authentic Japanese tea room available
5. Location Shooting
Enjoy an outdoor samurai armor experience!
BATTLE PLAN
Enjoy an authentic samurai photo experience at our battlefield-style location deep in the mountains.
Surrounded by dense forests and a traditional shrine, the setting feels like stepping into a real samurai movie. Before the shoot, our staff will carefully teach you sword handling, action movements, and how to pose for cinematic photos, so even first-time participants can join with confidence. You can create exciting battle scenes with friends or family by dividing into opposing sides, and solo participants are also very welcome. For solo guests, we capture powerful samurai portraits with the forest and shrine as dramatic backdrops. This approximately 1-hour experience includes the use of authentic weapons such as swords and bows, allowing you to feel like the hero of a Japanese historical film. Photo shooting is included as standard, with an optional cinematic video package also available. All photo and video data will be delivered later via Google Drive. There is no other place in Japan where you can wear real samurai armor and create a cinematic samurai movie experience quite like this. Let us help make your Kyoto trip truly unforgettable.
ARASHIYAMA PLAN
This plan allows you to choose two locations from four popular sightseeing spots in the Arashiyama area and enjoy sightseeing and commemorative photography while dressed in full samurai armor. Visiting famous landmarks such as Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove in samurai attire is a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Other location options include a matcha tea experience at Hiranoya, a traditional establishment with over 400 years of history in the Oku-Saga area; Kiyotaki, a well-known summer retreat
Location Options
Please choose two locations of your choice:
1. Togetsukyo Bridge
2. Bamboo Grove
3. Hiranoya (includes matcha experience)
4. Kiyotaki
* During peak seasons (March–May and October–December), photography in the Bamboo Grove may not be possible. Availability will be decided on the day of the shoot. Thank you for your understanding.
KIMONO & ARMOR PLAN
For this special shooting experience, we use beautiful hand-painted Kyo Yuzen furisode created by a female Yuzen dyeing artist active in Kyoto’s Arashiyama area. Each kimono is carefully dyed by hand using traditional techniques, featuring delicate colors and elegant designs that give the garment the presence of a true work of art. The refined beauty and sophistication unique to traditional Kyo Yuzen add an extraordinary sense of luxury and authenticity to your photo session. The temple used for this experience is also a special studio-exclusive location, normally reserved only for television and professional media productions. Unlike ordinary public photo plans, guests are able to enjoy shooting in a peaceful and private atmosphere rarely accessible to the public. Inside the temple grounds, beautiful bamboo groves extend into the scenery, while the natural landscapes of Arashiyama create a breathtaking borrowed backdrop. During the autumn season, vibrant red and golden leaves surround the temple, yet the location remains incredibly quiet and serene — completely separated from the crowds of the Arashiyama tourist district. The sound of bamboo swaying in the wind and the tranquil atmosphere create a cinematic experience unlike anywhere else. Another unique highlight of this plan is the opportunity to experience two of Japan’s most iconic cultural traditions at the same time: “Samurai” and “Kimono.” The powerful appearance of samurai armor combined with the elegance of authentic Kyo Yuzen creates a truly unforgettable visual contrast, allowing guests to deeply experience the beauty and spirit of Japanese culture. More than sightseeing, this is an opportunity to encounter the true essence of Kyoto through a luxurious and exclusive photo experience.
Location : Arashiyama
Duration: 3 Hours
This special plan takes place at a quiet temple in Arashiyama, where guests can enjoy photo and video shooting in both kimono and samurai armor. The temple grounds feature seasonal scenery such as bamboo groves, autumn leaves, and cherry blossoms, while also offering beautiful views of Arashiyama’s surrounding nature. Using a private location not normally accessible for public photography, we create cinematic images and films in a calm and elegant atmosphere unique to Kyoto.
6. SHOGUN TOUR
SHOGUN SAKURA TOUR 2027
The highly sought-after seasonal experience “SHOGUN SAKURA TOUR,” which became fully booked throughout the 2026 season, will return in 2027 for another unforgettable spring experience. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Fukuchiyama Castle, famous for its beautiful cherry blossoms, guests can enjoy an authentic samurai and luxury kimono photoshoot surrounded by blooming sakura trees and historic castle scenery. Participants will wear real samurai armor or premium kimono pieces created by Kyoto artisans, creating cinematic and powerful imagery unlike ordinary sightseeing photos. During sunset, the castle, cherry blossoms, and golden sky combine to create a magical atmosphere unique to Japan’s spring season. Professional photo and video shooting will capture these unforgettable moments in a movie-like style.
After the shoot, guests may also enjoy an optional dinner featuring local cuisine (a non-dinner plan is also available). Perfect for couples, families, and friends, this limited spring-only experience offers a luxurious and deeply memorable journey into the beauty of Japanese culture and history.
7. Online Shop
Everything You Need to Become a Samurai
Official authorized dealer of Marutake Armor Workshop. From samurai armor and replica swords to traditional garments, accessories, and interior décor — everything you need to become a samurai is available for purchase online. Our physical store is located inside SHOGUN STUDIO JAPAN, where you can see the armor in person, touch it, and even try it on. Experience the weight, texture, and powerful presence that simply cannot be conveyed through photos or a screen — and feel it with all five senses.
ONLINE SHOP HERE
8. Rental
Samurai Armor Rental (Services available in Japan)
This service offers samurai armor rentals on a weekly or monthly basis for both individual and corporate clients. The armor is widely used for a variety of purposes, including interior decoration and lobby displays at ryokan and hotels, corporate receptions and events, special productions, exhibitions, and ceremonial displays at shrines and temples. All armor handled by our company is manufactured exclusively by Marutake, one of Japan’s leading armor makers whose works have been featured in numerous historical TV dramas and films. These authentic armors are distinguished by accurate historical research and an overwhelming presence. As an official authorized distributor of Marutake in Kyoto, we provide our services with the highest standards of quality control and management.
This service is primarily available within Kyoto City, where delivery and installation are provided free of charge. Delivery to other prefectures can also be arranged depending on the details of the request, so please feel free to contact us for consultation. From short-term rentals to mid- and long-term use, we offer tailored proposals to suit your space and objectives.
SHOGUN ARMOR RENTAL
