From 'Local Photos' to 'Celebrating Shichi-Go-San in Ise': 80% of Users Come from Outside the Prefecture, Introducing a New Shichi-Go-San Experience Combining Travel and Shrine Visits. Pre-booking for 'hanataba plan' Opens Today, July 13, for Spring 2027.

Hanataba Photo, a photography unit born from a photo studio in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, has started advance bookings on July 13, 2026, for its limited-time shichi-go-san pre-shoot 'hanataba plan' in January to March 2027.

Approximately 80% of families using Hanataba Photo for shichi-go-san come from outside the prefecture.

Instead of simply going to a photo studio, more families are planning family trips centered around visiting Ise Jingu,

celebrating shichi-go-san as part of a special day.

They change into kimonos in the morning, enjoy the photo session, then visit Sarutahiko Shrine and Ise Jingu together as a family.

Reporting their child's growth to the gods and enjoying a walk through Okage Yokocho.

Not just a 'day for taking photos,' but a day for traveling as a family and reporting growth to the deities.

Hanataba Photo proposes a new kind of shichi-go-san made possible only in Ise.

Hanataba Photo creates a unique shichi-go-san for each child.

The 'hanataba plan' does not have fixed hairstyles or coordinated outfits.

The hairstyling and makeup are handled by the beauty team at Hanataba Photo, who propose a unique 'kawaii' look tailored to each child’s hair texture, facial features, and expressions.

The antique kimonos from 100 years ago are coordinated by photomar to match the world of hanataba.

On the day of the shoot, tulle, flowers, and accessories are combined to explore and co-create a new kind of cuteness suited to each individual.

Natural expressions made possible by childcare-trained photo staff

The photography is conducted by photo staff who hold childcare qualifications.

They play with and talk to the children, empathizing with their feelings,

and carefully capture their natural smiles and spontaneous gestures.

Specialized staff in hairstyling, kimono, and photography work as a team to bring out each child’s charm.

The popular 'tulle photo' that looks like a magazine cover

Completely changing the atmosphere from the antique kimono shoot, artistic photos using tulle and artificial flowers are also included in the plan.

The 'tulle photo,' shot with a magazine-cover-like aesthetic, is a signature and popular style of Hanataba Photo. Being able to enjoy two different worlds—kimono and model-like tulle photos—within a single plan is one of the reasons many families choose it.

Testimonials from actual customers

A customer from Nara

'Not only the shichi-go-san, but the entire family trip became our best memory. After the shoot, we strolled through Okage Yokocho and relaxed at a hotel in Futami overlooking the sea. Both parents and children were completely satisfied with the trip.'

A customer from Aichi

'I was always worried whether my child would wear the kimono, but the two staff members were so kind and supportive that I could relax during the shoot. When we saw the finished photos, the whole family was moved again.'

A customer from Osaka

'We were truly relieved that the main event—our shoot with hanataba photo—was met with smiles from the whole family. Every time we look at the photos, our hearts skip a beat (laughs). Thank you very much.'

Staff comments

Beauty stylist and photography assistant mayu・o

'I love the time spent discovering each child’s unique 'kawaii'. We choose hairstyles and accessories together, excitedly and joyfully. I’d be happy if the shoot day becomes a special memory.'

Childcare worker and photographer mayu・k

'Every time, I face each child with a bit of nervousness. While empathizing with their feelings, I value natural smiles and gestures. I aim to create a time they’ll remember thinking, 'That was fun.' I give my all in every shoot.'

Overview of hanataba plan

Event period January to March 2027 (on designated days)

Booking period From July 13, 2026 (first-come, first-served)

Price 55,000 yen (tax included) *Additional 5,000 yen on weekends and holidays

Contents

100-minute private studio use

Antique kimono rental

Kimono coordination

Hair and makeup by beauty professionals

Kimono dressing

Photography

50 photo data files

Complimentary family photo session

Post-shoot outings in kimono for shrine visits (optional)

Booking form

https://forms.gle/NX6dRcFYtNzdM7xQ8

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/hanataba_ise/

— Company Overview —

Company name: torch G.K. Representative: Taeko Soeda

torch G.K. is based in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, and operates primarily in the photo studio business, while also offering cultural experiences for inbound tourists, local events, and social initiatives.

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Main initiatives

photomar Founded in 2012, a fully reservation-based photo studio located on a hill surrounded by nature, approximately 700 tsubo in size, with an undisclosed address. Specializing in location shoots for shichi-go-san, family portraits, and wedding photography, currently planned and operated by torch G.K. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photomar___ise/

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torch Sarutahiko Shrine Front Store A photo studio offering easy kimono-wearing memorial photography, aligned with visits to Ise Jingu. With simple and clear pricing, it supports families in naturally creating memories. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torch.sarutahikojinjyamae/

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torch Ise Jingu Front Store Offers simple photo plans to casually preserve the 'present' of children and families, from ordinary days to special occasions. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torch.isejingumae/

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hanataba photo A semi-custom photo brand where beauty stylists and childcare staff collaborate to co-create new 'kawaii' with customers through hairstyling and photography. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hanataba_ise/

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once

A dog photography brand with the concept 'Turn your dog into art.' Conducts fully reservation-based shoots, capturing each dog’s individuality and expressions carefully, with a portion of sales supporting dog rescue activities.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/once___dog/

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Torch Experience Ise Offers private programs for inbound travelers to experience Japanese culture and local charms. More than sightseeing. Experience the Japan locals love. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torch_experience_ise

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Social Initiatives Engages in social activities aimed at increasing understanding of children with disabilities and their families. Collaborates with picture book creators tupera tupera and the character 'Hamin