Shrines & temples
Where photos aren't allowed
Gardens, gates and grounds are usually fine to photograph. The limits are around things people worship, people at prayer, and some private streets in Kyoto.
Look for the sign
The sign says 撮影禁止 (no photography), often with a crossed-out camera. Places that commonly don't allow photos:
- Inside main halls, and the statues or objects being worshipped.
- Treasure halls and museums inside temples.
- Ceremonies, weddings and prayers in progress.
Common mistakes
- Pointing a camera at an altar or Buddha statue because there was no sign at that exact spot.
- Using flash in a dark hall.
Good to know: When unsure, show the line below. A nod means yes; crossed arms or a wave of the hand means no.
Priests, monks and people praying
Step by step
Ask before taking a close-up of anyone, including priests, monks and shrine maidens.
Keep out of the way of people praying at the front of a hall.
Common mistakes
- Taking close-up photos of maiko or geiko without asking.
- Posing in front of the offering box while others are trying to pray.
Kyoto's Gion: the private lanes
Some lanes off Hanamikoji in Gion are private roads. Local residents put up signs banning photography there, and signs warn that unauthorised photos may be charged 10,000 yen. Hanamikoji Street itself is a public road.
Common mistakes
- Walking into a side lane marked private to get a photo.
Tripods, selfie sticks and drones
Step by step
Leave tripods and selfie sticks folded in crowded grounds; many places ban them.
Don't fly a drone near shrines, temples or parks unless you have permission — local rules often ban it.
Common mistakes
- Setting up a tripod on a narrow path or staircase.
On HAKOBUNE Spot
Want photos in kimono? Rent one, or book a photo studio, and take your pictures where they're welcome.
Sources
Sources (checked 2026-11-04). Facts, numbers and prices on this page come from these official pages.
- Local governmentRegarding visits to shrines and temples (Kyoto Prefecture)(opens in a new tab)Kyoto Prefecture: manners when visiting shrines and temples
- Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and TourismDrone flight rules (MLIT)(opens in a new tab)Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport: drone flight rules
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