Oiran Experience in Asakusa
Become one of Japan’s most iconic female legends in history
“I felt like a bad*ss Japanese Queen! I thought I could only authentically do this in Kyoto, but they have a studio in Tokyo too!”
Photographer: Momo @momo.irodori
Irodori Photo Studio Asakusa
is a female owned business in Japan operated by two sisters who are passionate about the magic of theatre from dancing to hair & make-up to costume. Their studio is located in the heart of Asakusa, Tokyo Japan. They had their grand opening on November 11, 2023.
The sisters love to dress up and take photos, but there weren’t many photo studios in Tokyo, that would go to the dramatic extent they were hoping for, so they made their own. There are many studios like this, but they are all in Kyoto.
I’m glad now I don’t have to go all the way to Kyoto!
Here is what you can expect in this plan:
Step 1: Make your reservation on their official website. Purple means it’s available
Pay online in advance with credit card to confirm booking
Google Map: 変身写真館 イロドリフォトスタジオ浅草 | Irodori Photo Studio Asakusa
BOOK HERE: Official Website (English)
Slots are filling up fast!
NOTE: Prices will increase in July, so hurry and grab a spot during June!
We will offer exclusive Bunny Gang discount starting from July.
Photo Shoot + All Data Plan= TBA price
Includes one free retouched image of your choice (usually all data plans do not include retouching).
Step 2: Check in
Then change into loose clothing & select two kimono
Inner wear is provided, but I recommend to bring a camisole or tank top. Socks not required during shoot.
Fully air conditioned room. Please note, it’s on the third floor (no elevators).
Inside kimono
Outside kimono
Step 3: Hair and make-up
This is the longest part of the process.
Owner, Yoko Ohtani did my make-up. Her background is in Dance, Theatre and Costume.
Theatre make-up is very different than your everyday makeup. So be emotionally prepared when you see yourself in the mirror!
Maybe don’t forget colored contacts for a dramatic effect and a foundation if your skin is a specific color.
Yoko does make-up
Momo does hair
Step 4: 30-min indoor photoshoot
The talented, Momo, works both in front and back of camera as a model & photographer.
She is also in charge of post-editing, but the raw photos look great that it barely needs any fixing.
Lots of props to play with! There’s more. Open to any requests!
Step 5: Change out and view the results!
After changing out and wiping the make-up off (optional), view your hard work in a slideshow.
All raw data will be sent to you (airdrop, LINE or GDrive) and please feel free to edit as you like!
Post away and tag @irodori_photo_asakusa if you like!
Don’t forget to select your one free retouched photo! Bunny Gang gift!
History Lesson: What is an Oiran?
Oiran is not born from royalty, she is rather, a brilliant self-made celebrity. She reminds me of the modern “Kim Kardashian,” but more likable.
Oiran were cultured women trained in Arts, literature, calligraphy, social conversation. Adored by their wit, grace and beauty. The more extravagant you are, the higher ranked you are- almost untouchable. The average working man would give all their yearly salary to spend one night with an Oiran. Only the wealthy had VIP access to these women of pleasure. This doesn’t necessarily mean intimacy. Stimulating the mind with the arts and literature was also part of this “pleasure.” Being in the presence of an Oiran was just enough!
Yes, they sold their bodies but not at first meeting. You are required to fill out an application, pass the interview, put down a deposit, meet the Oiran at least 3 times and consistently pay her expensive rate, then she can choose to sleep with the client on her discretion (which is an added fee). Sounds pretty reasonable right? This shows the client’s commitment and loyalty to the Oiran cause.
It’s fascinating to me how much value these women had! Of course, she couldn’t do all of this alone, she had a team!
Would I do it again??
OF COURSE!
This is a great souvenir + memory you can take back home. They also have a mermaid and fairy option, since Momo loves creative cosplay themed shoots.
It’s an awesome souvenir to celebrate your birthday. Or maybe your next family photo or holiday card?
There are no kids costume available, Irodori can rent kids costumes from another shop for you, so please feel free to inquire in the form.
Bringing in your own costume is ok!
Not many photo studios in Japan welcome men for some reason.
Irodori welcomes anyone, even men who want to dress up as Oiran and women who want to dress up as a samurai. What a challenge!
