Gion

We added a photoshoot package to our order for the first time. We chose this studio because we were worried about rain, and if it rained, the photos might not look as good, so we weren't really keen on going. This studio was one of the few that allowed free cancellation a day in advance, giving us some flexibility during our trip! Although there seemed to be a slight mishap during the photographer's consultation, the photographer who did the shoot was very nice and was very helpful with the subsequent retouching!

In short, it was a showcase of authentic Japanese culture. The performers' dances were serene and graceful, smooth and beautiful.

Disadvantages: The itinerary is tight, and with many people, you need to manage your time well if you want to see the sights or go shopping. Some members of our group were 10 minutes late and were still walking slowly; there were people who weren't punctual at every point. Katsuo-ji Temple offers stamp collection; the fee includes admission and a postcard per person, making it a great place for photos and stamp collecting—you'll finish before you know it. Lunch is only 40 minutes long; if you've booked a crab hot pot, it'll be rushed… Arashiyama (1 hour): Crowded, you'll cross the Togetsukyo Bridge, so you can't take the train. Bamboo Grove Path, shopping and snacks, the shopping street has different versions of the old and new ones, and it's a sloping area—a great place for shoppers. Kiyomizu-dera Temple admission is extra; you have to climb stairs, but it's highly recommended. Headache amulets cost 100 yen; the "walking in the womb" experience is very interesting; try your hand at the Benkei staff (you'll really cheer if you succeed; I encountered two that day); Otowa Waterfall helps ward off bad luck.