Introducing Popular Pre-wedding Photo Locations at Shōmyōji Temple!

Groom with an umbrella and bride in a pastel kimono descending the arched red bridge under a clear blue sky, Japan wedding photography at a temple

Hello to everyone reading our blog!
This is Wedding Avenue Yokohama!

Day by day it’s getting warmer, and we can feel the arrival of spring ♪
We can’t wait for the cherry blossoms to bloom…!!

Now, today we’d like to introduce “Shōmyōji Temple” in Kanazawa Ward, Yokohama City.
It is the family temple of the Kanazawa-Hōjō clan.
Its origin is said to date back to the personal Buddhist hall built within the Kanazawa residence of Sanetoki Hōjō, a key figure in the Kamakura shogunate.
With cherry blossoms in spring, yellow irises in early summer, and autumn foliage in fall, the temple offers seasonal beauty and serves as a peaceful retreat for visitors.

As the weather warms up, how about a location photo shoot at Shōmyōji Temple with the cherry blossoms?
Please enjoy reading to the end ( ^_^ )

1. On the Red Bridge

Back view of the bride in a kimono and groom in montsuki crossing the red bridge toward the main hall of Shomyoji Temple, kimono wedding photos

The biggest highlight of “Shōmyōji Temple” is without a doubt its “Pure Land-style Garden.”
Within the spacious grounds lies a large pond called Ajigaike. A small island is placed in the center, connected to the pond’s edge by a red bridge. Crossing the bridge symbolizes reaching the Pure Land paradise. This style of garden is known as a “Pure Land Garden.”
The arched bridge is called the “Soribashi,” the central island is “Nakajima,” and the bridge to the main hall is the “Hirabashi.”

This red bridge is a must-shoot spot in every season ◎

2. Strolling through the Garden

Bride with a red wagasa umbrella and groom with a cream umbrella smiling by a pond surrounded by pines, kimono wedding photos in a temple garden

Rich in natural beauty, Shōmyōji Temple offers different charms in each season!
Around Ajigaike Pond at the center, cherry blossoms bloom in late March, and in May, the pond’s banks are covered with brilliant yellow irises, creating a breathtaking view.
In autumn, ancient trees such as an over-800-year-old ginkgo turn golden, with their reflections beautifully mirrored on the pond’s surface.
At Shōmyōji, where you can enjoy the scenery of all four seasons, we will capture your photos while taking a leisurely stroll, cherishing your natural style.

This charming temple is available for both weekday and weekend photo sessions!

3. Away from the Hustle and Bustle, Purifying the Heart

Bride in a pastel floral kimono and groom pressing their palms together in prayer beside a temple bell rope, pre-wedding photoshoot

Beyond the red bridge, you can worship at the Kondō Hall, which carries on the tradition of a seven-hall temple complex.
Here, you can capture rare photos of worship scenes that are normally not possible in regular gardens.
The solemn atmosphere, the grandeur of the buildings, and the beauty of nature create a sacred feeling that calms the heart.

4. With a Scenic and Historic Backdrop

Couple in kimono standing in front of a thatched-roof temple hall at Shomyoji Temple, a traditional setting for kimono wedding photos

To the right of the main hall stands the Shakadō, a Zen-style structure built in 1862 (Bunkyū 3).
Its impressive thatched roof conveys a strong sense of history.
The combination of traditional architecture with kimono creates a refined, classic atmosphere, enhanced by natural beauty and historic charm—capturing special moments that feel timeless.

5. Creating a Dramatic Atmosphere in Natural Light

Groom in a beige montsuki and bride in a floral kimono holding hands under green trees at Shomyoji Temple, natural pre-wedding photoshoot

Shooting in a tranquil, nature-filled setting is above all a calming experience.
A pre-wedding session in such a place, where natural beauty and elegance coexist, becomes a truly memorable and touching day.

Why not step away from busy everyday life and leave behind emotional, beautiful photos while relaxing in nature?

6. In Conclusion

Back view of the couple in pastel kimono sitting on a bench facing the red arched bridge at Shomyoji Temple, kimono wedding photos

We have now introduced the many charms of Shōmyōji Temple!
With its beautiful scenery and historical background, it perfectly matches the elegance of traditional attire, making it an ideal place for kimono photo shoots (^^)/
Whether in a vibrant iro-uchikake or a pure white shiromuku, both will shine wonderfully against Shōmyōji’s serene atmosphere ◎

If you are even slightly interested, please feel free to contact us ♡

Shōmyōji Temple – Japanese Kimono Location Photo Plan ¥126,280

【Included in the Plan】
Photo data: 200 cuts delivered / Iro-uchikake or Shiromuku / Montsuki / Hair & Makeup / Attendant / Art Bouquet / Kimono Dressing / Kimono Accessories / Japanese-style Accessories / Photo Selection / Retouching (color correction) / Location Arrangement / Professional Photographer (400+ shots)

※ Application fee: ¥10,000
Taxi travel time: approx. 30 minutes