When you think of summer in Kyoto, what comes to mind? While the Gion Matsuri and lush green maple leaves are beautiful, there is a hidden, breathtaking summer landscape known only to a few.
Deep in the northernmost mountains of Kyoto lies Kuta, a secluded village that transforms into a vibrant purple paradise every summer, thanks to the blooming Kitayama Yuzen Chrysanthemums (Kitayama Yuzen-giku).
The sight of a traditional, peaceful Japanese village blanketed in a vivid purple carpet is simply breathtaking. We are thrilled to announce an exclusive, early-morning photo tour designed to capture this hidden gem at its most magical moment.
What are Kitayama Yuzen Chrysanthemums?
The Kitayama Yuzen Chrysanthemum is a beautiful, rare summer flower cultivated primarily in Kuta, a remote and rural area in northern Kyoto.
Its most striking feature is its elegant, vivid purple hue. Blooming from late July to early August, these flowers create a stunning contrast against the backdrop of traditional thatched-roof houses (Kayabuki) and lush green mountains, evoking the nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan.
Nurtured by Kuta’s pristine water, crisp air, and the drastic temperature shifts between day and night, these flowers display an unmatched vibrancy. It is a hidden summer poetry of Kyoto that can only be witnessed for a very short period.
Why You Should Join This Tour: Highlights & Benefits
1. Capture the “Perfect Moment” in Magical Morning Light
The Kitayama Yuzen Chrysanthemums look their absolute best right after sunrise. The sight of the gentle morning sun piercing through the morning mist and illuminating the dew-kissed purple petals is nothing short of mystical. Unlike other standard sightseeing tours, we depart in the twilight hours. You will arrive before the crowds, allowing you to shoot in perfect silence and under the best natural lighting conditions.
2. Direct Transfer to Kyoto’s Hidden Secluded Village
While Kuta boasts untouched, pristine nature, it is incredibly difficult to access via public transportation (trains or buses). It is truly a “hidden village.” Our tour provides a comfortable private minivan, taking you directly from central Kyoto to the flower fields smoothly and without any hassle.
3. Small Group, Solo Travelers & Photographers Welcome!
We travel in a comfortable minivan with a strictly limited number of participants to ensure a high-quality experience. Whether you are a passionate landscape photographer with professional gear or someone who wants to capture a miracle shot on your smartphone, you are more than welcome. Solo travelers frequently join our tours, so please feel free to sign up alone!
4. Make the Most of Your Day: Return by 9:00 AM
After soaking in the morning energy and filling your memory cards with stunning shots, we will return to central Kyoto around 9:00 AM. Since the tour ends early, your day has just begun! You will be back in time for hotel breakfast or to enjoy a full day of standard Kyoto sightseeing, maximizing your precious travel time.
5. Bilingual Support (English & Japanese)
The tour is fully supported in both English and Japanese. You can relax and enjoy the journey and photography without worrying about any language barriers.
Tour Details & Schedule
Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026
Price: 17,000 JPY per person (Includes round-trip transfer)
Minimum Participants: 4 people
Languages: English / Japanese
Around 04:30 AM Depart from Kyoto Station or other central Kyoto locations (The exact meeting point will be finalized and communicated closer to the date). Enjoy a comfortable drive to the Kuta region in our private minivan.
Early Morning (Right after sunrise) Arrive in Kuta. Dedicated photo session with the Kitayama Yuzen Chrysanthemums. Enjoy the stunning contrast of the morning mist, the vibrant purple fields, and the idyllic Japanese countryside.
Around 09:00 AM Return to central Kyoto and disband.
How to Book & Important Notes
- Payment Method: PayPal
- Tour Confirmation: If we do not reach the minimum headcount of 4 participants by 10 days prior to the tour date, the tour will be canceled. In such a case, we will notify you in advance.
Why not capture a once-in-a-lifetime landscape of Kyoto this summer? We look forward to shooting with you!
