Photograph by: Coo and Yurika

How to Propose in Kyoto

Featured Kyoto Proposal Tips
  • Choose a special location to pop the question in Kyoto
  • Practice getting down on one knee beforehand
  • Think about what you will say
  • Make reservations so you have a reason to dress up
  • Hire a proposal photographer to plan and capture the moment

Since 2013, Flytographer has captured thousands of surprise proposal photos all around the globe. Explore romantic proposal ideas and tips from real couples, including their top proposal ideas and tips, and the best ways and the best places to propose in Kyoto. Explore our customers’ heartwarming Kyoto proposal stories below.

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Gabriel's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Matt & Hannah's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

School

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Yoshi in Kyoto for Flytographer

Kris & Scott's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Dating App

What is your love story?

When we started dating, he would bring me homemade sourdough bread baked with cherries inside. I'd have it for breakfast every morning, and whenever it ran out, there'd be a new loaf ready for me. He's kept me well-fed ever since! Between that and the fact that he actually finds enjoyment sitting next to me and watching me play my nerdy video games, I couldn't have found a better partner!

What made you choose this proposal destination?

We're both huge video game and anime otakus (nerds), and I've always wanted to make my proposal in a place far from home and special for us. Japan was a no-brainer. He had visited 2 times before, and this was my first time. It was unforgettable, and I'm so glad I picked this trip for such special day.

What is your proposal story?

Scott isn't a huge fan of surprises, and it was definitely suspicious that I had planned something for us in the outskirts of Kyoto at 8:30 AM (We never do anything at 8:30 AM, haha!). That said, it gave him the chance to also prepare his own proposal for the same time. On the special day, we woke up, hopped on a local bus with the morning commuters, and walked up to the most beautiful small temple with barely anyone there yet. Kyoto is a busy place, so we were very lucky to be able to have our moment surrounded by the nature carefully curated by temple caretakers. We went with some symbolism with our ring choices, as Scott's design comes to a peak, and my design has a little valley. Because of the design, we can put our rings together like a train wheel on a track. They go together just like us! After the proposal, we made our way to a coffee shop our photographer suggested (Kurasu, it was amazing!), had an amazing coffee, then ate buckwheat crepes across the street. Once we were fed and energized, we went to the Nintendo store to geek out as a newly engaged couple. After that, we caught the sunset at Kyomizu-dera and got a new stamp in my goshuincho. Hilariously, while I was in the holy place getting my stamp, a stranger from Hong Kong walked up to Scott and started hitting on him! We didn't think much of it and when he asked to join us as we walked around the temple, we said sure. As we were taking photos, another tourist asked Scott to take a photo for them, which happened a lot. When I told our new "friend" that Scott always ends up being asked to take pictures, he said "probably because he's handsome, right?". I thought to myself, yes, he sure is! He ended up walking with us all the way back to Kyoto City, where we had to walk him to the train station and say our goodbyes. Otherwise, I think he would have followed us back to our hotel room! It must have been a bit of a surprise for him after we traded socials that we had actually just sealed the deal with proposals that day. Just another funny little story about our special day that we'll never forget!

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Definitely do it early, Kyoto is a very famous city visited by travelers from all over the world. From what we hear, it is peak tourism season every day of the year there. Make sure you're respectful of the locals, especially in places of worship like the shrines and temples. We found that knowing a little bit of Japanese goes a long way when interacting with folks at temples and restaurants.

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Masa and Asami in Kyoto for Flytographer

Yensheng & Chungyi Pang's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Bar

What is your love story?

We met through mutual friends, and from the very beginning, everything just felt natural and effortless. There was a quiet understanding between us — we could talk about anything, or simply enjoy the silence together. Over time, I realized that love doesn’t always arrive with fireworks; sometimes it comes gently, like a calm morning light that slowly fills your world. I knew they were “the one” not because of a single grand moment, but because of countless small ones — the laughter, the shared dreams, and the steady sense of peace whenever we were together. They make ordinary days feel meaningful, and that’s when I understood this was the person I wanted to share every chapter of life with.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Kyoto has always held a special place in our hearts. Its quiet beauty, gentle atmosphere, and timeless charm make it feel almost magical. I wanted the proposal to happen in a place that reflects what our relationship feels like — calm, sincere, and deeply meaningful. The combination of history, nature, and elegance in Kyoto made it the perfect setting to begin our next chapter together. Every corner feels like a memory waiting to happen, and I couldn’t imagine asking such an important question anywhere else.

What is your proposal story?

The proposal took place on a quiet afternoon in Kyoto — the air was calm, the light soft, and everything seemed to move just a little slower than usual. We were walking through the garden, surrounded by the sound of leaves rustling and water flowing nearby. It felt like time had stopped for a moment, just the two of us and the peaceful beauty around us. When the moment felt right, I took a deep breath, looked into their eyes, and told them how much this journey together has meant to me — how every day with them feels like home. Then I asked the question I’d been waiting to say for so long. There were no crowds, no big audience, just an honest, quiet promise shared between us. It was simple, sincere, and perfectly us.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Kyoto is all about atmosphere — the stillness, the light, and the beauty in simplicity. My advice is to plan less around the perfect spot and more around the perfect feeling. Find a quiet garden or temple early in the morning or close to sunset, when the crowds are gone and the air feels calm. That peaceful moment will make your words even more meaningful. Also, take your time — walk together, talk, laugh, and let the proposal happen naturally when it feels right. Kyoto has a gentle way of slowing everything down, allowing you to truly be present. And if you can, capture it with a local photographer — they know the light, the mood, and the magic of the city better than anyone.

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Higashiyama District

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Leonard & Michelle's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

School

What is your love story?

When I was growing up my mom used to make taho, a special filipino dessert with brown sugar and tofu. It is very difficult to make. I knew Michelle was the one when she asked me what my favorite dish was. Then she made it for me perfectly! It was like I was a kid again! It showed Michelle's great listening skills and thoughtfulness. I knew I wanted to marry such a kind and giving person. It was really hard to choose just one instance beucase I have many instances of me wanting to marry Michelle such as her making me taho!

What made you choose this proposal destination?

What made me choose Kyoto to propose was because it was our first international trip together and she's always dreamed of visiting Japan. I wanted to make the trip extremely memorable, so I invited her best friends to join us!

What is your proposal story?

Our proposal story was Coo (our photographer) was going to act as a tourist photographing the area and he would pretend to take our picture and then I would bend down on one knee to surprise her! I'm not good at keeping surprises, so Michelle had an idea, but she didn't know about the photographer. It went so smooth! Coo was great and hit his marks perfectly! Me, however, I was a nervous wreck!!! She could see my legs shaking as I bend down on one knee and take the ring out. I stumble through my words but man, it was hard not to get emotional! I don't even remember what I said! But all that matters is that she said YES!!!

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Hire Coo, he's really good!

Proposed in Kyoto in October

Photo Shoot Location: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Christian & J's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

Proposed in Kyoto in September

Photo Shoot Location: Higashiyama District

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

DEVINE & Xen's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

Proposed in Kyoto in July

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Masa and Asami in Kyoto for Flytographer

Andrew & Serenity's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

School

What is your love story?

She became and has been the most comfortable person I speak to. We have been together since high school and wanted to wait until after college to make it official, but knew back in college.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Recommendation from Coo after we planned our trip to Japan!

What is your proposal story?

Woke up very early and went to see cherry blossoms. Key word was selfie and right after we took the selfie I got on one knee.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Look at weather and go very early before people are awake and going to work/school.

Proposed in Kyoto in March

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Asher & Faith's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Dating App

Proposed in Kyoto in April

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Masa and Asami in Kyoto for Flytographer

Kyle & Cherryl's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

School

Proposed in Kyoto in March

Photo Shoot Location: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Tyler & Raveena's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Bumble

Proposed in Kyoto in March

Photo Shoot Location: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Bryan & Julianny's Proposal Story in Kyoto

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Simon & Rebecca's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

We met at a concert over twenty years ago!

What is your love story?

Initially we were childhood sweethearts, however after a few years apart we got back together and have been for the last ten years. Rebecca is my soul mate, my best friend and the love of my life.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Having both been interested in going to Japan together for many years, when we finally decided to book it I just knew that it would be the right place. Especially Kyoto, somewhere so naturally beautiful and filled with amazing history. It’s a city that reminds me of Rebecca and now it will forever.

What is your proposal story?

On the day I had to act calm and casual, which having known someone as long as I have Rebecca was easy. We’d had a good few days before in Tokyo and Osaka and were already on the holiday of our lives. I just tried to continue that on the day and told Rebecca that we had to visit this shrine. When we booked to go to Japan she had shared a picture of the bridge there, so she was excited for a picture on her phone!

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Embrace it! Kyoto is packed filled with fantastic places. Enjoy the city and the culture on every corner and find the right spot. Whilst it can be busy in parts, there are so many wonderful places like this that aren’t as busy. Be clever with your timing and do some research first into how busy the area you are planning is.

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Yoshi in Kyoto for Flytographer

Serkut's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

School

Proposed in Kyoto in November

Photo Shoot Location: Philosopher's Path

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Gareth & -'s Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

OKCupid

What is your love story?

-

What made you choose this proposal destination?

She had previously mentioned of her ideal proposal as overseas. Kyoto, Japan seemed like a great location.

What is your proposal story?

We went early at 6am to take photos. There were already a handful of people around the Gion streets but most were very accommodating to allow us to take the shots. Recommend Coo and Yurika - they can fill you in with more details.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

(1) Time - 6am is good. Any later and the crowd streams in pretty fast at Gion / Kiyomizu Dera (2) Maruyama park is great for nature shots and just nearby (3) Autumn foliage cuts into late November nowadays, probably cant get much in Oct/ early Nov (4) Check the weather, we had typhoon the next two days post-proposal, so it was a lucky thing for us

Proposed in Kyoto in October

Photo Shoot Location: Higashiyama District

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Kyle & Grace's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Sports

What is your love story?

I knew my partner was the one because I can open up to her and I feel so comfortable around her. She honestly understands me better than I do. However, there was no specific day or event that caused me to know. We would spend all of our time together and over time we got to know each other more and more. Now I can't imagine a day without her being in my life.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Japan felt like a great proposal destination, since it had a lot of beautiful scenery and we were going to spend a few weeks in Japan. My partner also had hinted that she would like the proposal to happen somewhere scenic, and since my partner grew up in Asia, Japan seemed like a good choice.

What is your proposal story?

We spent the morning at Himeji castle, and then sauntered our way over to Osaka, where Coo was waiting for us at Osaka castle. I was super nervous, and was stressed about trying to get everyone over to Osaka at the agreed upon time, to the point that I forgot most of the speech I had prepared. Luckily, Coo was there to capture the photos and to guide us through an engagement photoshoot, despite my nervousness.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Stores open late at 11 am and close around 6-8pm, though some stores are willing to deliver products (e.g. flowers). There's a lot of tourists, so finding locations can be tricky, especially if you want it to be a bit more private.

Proposed in Kyoto in October

Photo Shoot Location: Custom Route

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Andy & Michelle's Proposal Story in Kyoto

Proposed in Kyoto in October

Photo Shoot Location: Higashiyama District

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Adem & Quynh's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

What is your love story?

We met 10 years ago. I knew she was the one as soon as I met her in person through a friend. She was the most kind, caring, sweetest beautiful person I’ve ever met. And the longer I get to know her the more I grew to love her and know what an amazing person she is. As years gone by, we both grew up, went through challenges, and grow together. She’s pushes me to become a better man. She became an even more wonderful women! I’ve always known she was the one for me, and I have chosen her from day one.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

Our first date was at a Japanese barbecue, we both love sushi, and we both love, Japan!

What is your proposal story?

Since she’s planned our whole Japan trip. I asked if I was allowed to just plan one day to show her something special about Japan that she does not have on her list. We came to the proposal location, and Coo (photographer) pretended to be a local photographer that offer to shoot some free photos and if we like it, then we can pay him and that’s when the magic happens.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

Go early in the morning. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a nice heel for your significant other in a backpack or bag.

Proposed in Kyoto in October

Photo Shoot Location: Higashiyama District

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

David & Jee Hong's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Friends/Family

What is your love story?

Our love story is a testament to the power of time, resilience, and deep connection. After being together for almost four years, the longest relationship I've ever had, it became evident that my partner was "the one" for me. We have weathered tough times together, demonstrating our unwavering commitment and support for one another. The bond we share is incredibly strong, and we feel completely comfortable in each other's presence. These factors combined made it clear that we were meant to be together and solidified my belief that my partner is "the one" for me.

What made you choose this proposal destination?

When selecting the destination for my proposal, I was drawn to this particular place due to its sheer beauty and captivating historical architecture. It was a city that held an allure for both of us, as we had never been there before. What truly sealed the decision was the fact that it offered a balance between nature and urban charm, with a greater emphasis on natural landscapes. The combination of stunning aesthetics, untouched natural beauty, and the allure of exploring a new city made it the perfect choice for such a special occasion.

What is your proposal story?

On the big day, I faced a few challenges as I had to carefully conceal the ring for about a week leading up to the proposal. I didn't want anyone to catch wind of my plans, so I went to great lengths to be discreet. When the much-awaited day arrived, nerves consumed me. I had written a heartfelt letter for her and chose to propose in a public setting. Seeing her touched by the gesture brought immense joy to my heart, and I am overjoyed that she said yes. It was a truly memorable and special moment that I will cherish forever.

Best tip for proposing in Kyoto

If you're planning to propose in Kyoto, it's a good idea to meet early. Getting to the location as early as possible will allow you to avoid the crowds and capture those special moments in a more intimate setting. Kyoto attracts a larger number of tourists than you might expect, so planning ahead and arriving early can ensure a more secluded and magical atmosphere for your proposal.

Proposed in Kyoto in May

Photo Shoot Location: Higashiyama District

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

Anna & Jeff's Proposal Story in Kyoto

How did you meet?

Bumble

What made you choose this proposal destination?

We both wanted to visit Japan during the Sakura season.

Proposed in Kyoto in April

Photo Shoot Location: Philosopher's Path

Coo and Yurika in Kyoto for Flytographer

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