Private Samurai Costume Photo Shooting in Gyoda Oshi Castle

Imagine stepping back in time and donning the revered attire of a samurai warrior. This exclusive opportunity at Gyoda Oshi Castle in Saitama, Japan, allows visitors to embody the essence of Japan’s iconic samurai culture. With expert assistance and a professional photographer, participants can capture stunning portraits that immortalize their transformation into these legendary figures. The allure of this immersive experience extends beyond the mere costume, inviting guests to explore the rich history and grandeur of the castle’s surroundings. Prepare to be captivated as you delve deeper into this captivating cultural odyssey.

Key Points

• Experience private Samurai costume photo shoot at Gyoda Oshi Castle in Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
• Obtain full Samurai ensemble including helmet, armor, sword, Kosode, Hakama, and Jikatabi.
• Professional photographer captures 30 shots of participants in traditional attire.
• Activity concludes at the meeting point near Gyoda City Hall for costume return.
• Opportunity not suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems and pregnant women.

Overview of the Experience

This private Samurai costume photo shooting experience takes place at the historic Gyoda Oshi Castle in Saitama Prefecture, Japan.

It includes dressing in a full Samurai ensemble – helmet, torso armor, sword, Kosode, Hakama, and Jikatabi. A professional photographer will capture 30 cuts of the participant in this traditional attire.

The activity ends back at the meeting point near Gyoda City Hall, where the costume is returned.

This private experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate, except those with back problems or pregnant women.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Participants meet at the Gyodashi Bus Terminal Information Centre, located at 3-5 Honmaru, Gyoda, Saitama 361-0052, Japan.

The meeting point is approximately 2 minutes’ walk from Gyoda City Hall. At the end of the activity, guests return to the same meeting point.

• The location is easily accessible, being near public transportation.
• An English guide is available if selected during booking.
• Confirmation is received upon booking.
• Cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience are free.
• The option to reserve now and pay later is available.

Additional Services

Along With the core photo shooting experience, several additional services are offered.

Participants can select an English guide to accompany them, ensuring a seamless experience for non-Japanese speakers.

Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled activity.

Those who prefer, can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

It’s also not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant individuals, though most can participate.

Accessibility and Participation

The Samurai costume photo shoot experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed.

Located near public transportation, the activity is generally suitable for most travelers.

However, it isn’t recommended for those with back problems or pregnant individuals.

The key things to know about accessibility and participation:

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Located near public transportation
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant travelers
• Most travelers can participate

Costume Size Information

The adult samurai costume sizes are suitable for individuals up to approximately 178 cm in height, while the children’s costumes cater to those between 115 cm and 145 cm. This ensures a proper fit and an authentic samurai experience for participants of all ages.

Costume Type	Height Range
Adult	≤ 178 cm
Children	115 – 145 cm

This private photo shooting is a unique opportunity to take in the captivating world of samurai culture, with the costume size options catering to a wide range of participants.

Highlights of the Gyoda Oshi Castle

Situated in the heart of Saitama Prefecture, Gyoda Oshi Castle boasts a rich historical legacy that serves as the backdrop for the private samurai costume photo shooting experience.

This 12th-century fortress offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past, with its impressive stone walls, ornate gates, and meticulously restored structures.

Some of the castle’s highlights include:

• The Honmaru Palace, a beautifully preserved example of traditional Japanese architecture
• The Miharashi-no-Roka, a raised walkway offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape
• The Tsukimi-yagura, a unique moon-viewing tower
• The Ninomaru Garden, a tranquil oasis of carefully curated plants and ponds
• The Gyoda Oshi Castle Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the site’s history.

Preparing for the Samurai Costume Photo Shoot

As participants arrive at the Gyoda Oshi Castle, they’ll be greeted by a team of costume experts who will help them don the traditional samurai attire. The process involves carefully selecting the right size and meticulously arranging each piece, from the iconic helmet to the Kosode and Hakama. This ensures a truly authentic look that transports the wearer back in time.

Step	Description	Duration
1	Fitting the Samurai Helmet	5-10 minutes
2	Putting on the Torso Armor	10-15 minutes
3	Tying the Kosode and Hakama	15-20 minutes

With the costume in place, you will feel the weight and presence of the samurai, ready to embark on their private photo shoot within the historical walls of Gyoda Oshi Castle.

The Photoshoot Experience

With the samurai costumes perfectly fitted, participants are now ready to commence the private photoshoot within the historic walls of Gyoda Oshi Castle.

Guided by the professional photographer, the group is directed to strike various dramatic poses, brandishing their replica swords and standing tall in their imposing outfits.

The session includes:

• Capturing individual portraits in diverse settings around the castle grounds
• Posing together as a formidable samurai unit
• Utilizing the castle’s architectural elements as backdrops
• Experimenting with different lighting and angles to achieve the most captivating shots
• Receiving direct feedback from the photographer to perfect each pose

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Camera to Take Additional Photos?

Yes, you can bring your own camera to take additional photos. The experience allows participants to take their own photos in the samurai costume during the private photo shoot.

How Do I Wash the Samurai Costume After the Photoshoot?

The provider recommends dry cleaning the samurai costume after the photoshoot. They ask that customers do not attempt to wash the costume themselves, as the intricate materials and design require professional cleaning to maintain the costume’s quality and appearance.

Are There Any Restrictions on the Poses or Themes for the Photos?

There are no explicit restrictions on the poses or themes for the photos. Participants can work with the photographer to create a variety of shots within the samurai costume and castle setting. However, appropriate and respectful conduct is expected.

Can I Keep the Samurai Costume After the Photoshoot?

No, participants can’t keep the samurai costume after the photoshoot. The costume is provided by the experience and must be returned at the end of the session. The cost covers the rental and use of the costume during the photography.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Customizing the Samurai Costume?

There are no additional fees for customizing the samurai costume. The costume rental includes the standard helmet, torso, sword, Kosode, Hakama, and Jikatabi, and cannot be modified or exchanged for other items.

The Sum Up

This private samurai costume photo shoot offers a unique and immersive experience. Participants don authentic samurai attire and are guided through a professional photoshoot at the historic Gyoda Oshi Castle. The personalized service and 30 beautifully framed photos capture the essence of Japan’s samurai culture, providing a memorable and one-of-a-kind souvenir.