If you are looking for an amazing and truly unique photo shooting experience in Tokyo, then Esperanto Kokoro is the perfect choice!

My journey with Esperanto began several years ago in Kyoto, where I did an Oiran photoshoot on the recommendation of a colleague. That experience was unforgettable. The staff were incredibly warm, professional and welcoming, and the final results were simply stunning. This positive memory stayed with me – and it is exactly why I decided to return.

In 2024, I chose the Esperanto Kokoro Minami Aoyama Studio in Tokyo for a Kimono portrait shooting, and once again, I was not disappointed. From the very beginning, the team was professional, attentive and genuinely kind. From make-up and hairstyling to the photographer, everyone did an amazing job. I wanted to share this experience in case you are looking to capture something truly special – either alone or with your partner.

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☆ Esperanto Kokoro Minami Aoyama Studio
3 Chome-4-5 Minamiaoyama, Minato City, Tokyo 107-0062, Japan
tokyo.studio-esperanto.com

Prices
Studio Esperanto offers a range of themed portrait experiences in Tokyo – from glamorous makeover shoots to Lolita, Kimono, Samurai, Sharaku and seasonal plans (starting ~¥18,150). Most experiences include professional makeup, costumes, photographed shots and a set number of retouched images. Optional add-ons let you expand the number of images and creative effects for extra fees.

Options with Extra Fee

• 1 additional retouch JPEG data 1’650 yen
• 4 additional retouch JPEG data 5’500 yen
• All JPEG data 11’000 yen
• Face Painting 3,850 yen *Reservation required
• Use smoke machine 3,850 yen *Reservation required
• Group shot about 10 cuts 3’850 yen per person *Reservation required
• Shooting cut added about 10 cuts 3’850 yen *Reservation required

♡ My Plan
– Kimono Portrait Plan (Solo Course)
– Booth: Gurenge Garden
– approx. 24’750 yen
– additional extra: all JPEG data for 11’000 yen
– Duration total approx. 3 hours (~2h with make-up and shooting + ~45min for the data)
– Staff: Miyu (Make-Up/Hair) & Yuji (Photographer)

Opening Hours
Daily 10:00 – 17:00

From Styling to the Photoshoot

I had a morning slot and I highly recommend planning enough time. The entire experience takes about three hours. Around two hours are dedicated to make-up, hairstyling and the photoshoot itself. If you decide to add extra options – as I did by choosing all photos digitally for 11’000 yen – you should plan around 45 additional minutes.

After arriving, you will first fill out a form and then choose your Kimono. With so many beautiful options available, this was honestly one of the hardest parts. I had two favorites: a darker, more elegant and more “mature” style and a lighter, sweeter “kawaii” style. In the end, I chose the cute option.

Everything is very well organized. There are lockers for your belongings and you are allowed to bring your phone for selfies. Just keep in mind that photos are not allowed inside the photo booth, only at the flower wall.

One thing I especially love about Esperanto is the photography team. This was already true during my experience in Kyoto and it was no different in Tokyo. The photographer guides you through every pose, tell you exactly what to do and are incredibly supportive. This makes the experience very beginner-friendly, even if you are not used to being in front of a camera. I felt completely comfortable throughout the entire shoot.

Location, Value & My Thoughts

The studio is located in the Omotesando area, close to Harajuku and Shibuya, and is easy to find. Just make sure to reserve the appropriate plan in advance. A huge plus point is that the staff speak English, which makes everything smooth and stress-free.

While this experience is not cheap, the price-performance ratio is absolutely fair. Especially with the current Japanese yen exchange rate, I found it incredibly good value for what you receive.

A special thank you to Miyu-san and Yuji-san for their wonderful work and the beautiful results. I am truly happy with everything.

My personal highlight came at the very end. After I had already left the studio, a staff member suddenly ran after me. For a moment, I thought I had forgotten something – or forgotten to pay lol. But instead, she handed me a business card with my own portrait on it. I was genuinely touched. It is these small, thoughtful gestures that make Japan – and the people working there – so special!

Overall, Esperanto Kokoro is an experience I can truly recommend with all my heart 🌸!

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