As a man, this was such a fun experience. When I checked in, I think the (male) receptionist was a bit shocked to see it was only me, but he handled it with care and I didn't feel embarrassed at all. The photoshoot itself only lasted about 10 minutes, but they do offer to take some personal pictures with your cell phone. (So you don't only get the professionally shot photos advertised!) They also have an option to go to a private shoot in a home, but the cost was like $400 or something. Something to consider if you really want to have an extra special experience.

This was one of the best things we did in Kyoto. My wife loved it. The process felt very authentic to her and the kimono was elaborate and ornate. The makeup artist and stylist did a fantastic job and allowed her color and style choices. Even local Japanese were having Maiko Geisha makeovers at this studio so you felt good about their work

Unforgettable experience

All very well organized. We had lots of fun. The 4 ladies who did our make-up and who dressed us up as Maikos are very professional. They also had lots of fun to transform two men into a Maiko but made us feel all the time very good. The photographer she was also very professional. She did perfect pics of us and shared them on the same day via email with us. Absolutly worth to do this experience, even as a man ;-).