12 · 07 · 2026
Kyoto, Japan
We invite you to join us as we exchange vows and celebrate the love that has brought us here.
A journey years in the making, now culminating in a moment we can't wait to share with you. We are thrilled to have you witness the beginning of our forever.
Read Our Story
"Whatever our souls are made of, his and mine are the same."
— Emily Brontë
July 12, 2026
Saturday
3:00 PM
Ceremony begins promptly
Kinkaku-ji Garden
Kyoto, Japan
Two wandering souls who found home in each other — somewhere between Tokyo and a midnight train.
A ceramicist with a love for morning matcha, long walks, and the quiet beauty of imperfect things. Born in Barcelona, raised by curiosity.
An architect who believes that every space tells a story. Originally from London, forever dreaming of the places he hasn't yet seen.
Everything you need to know to reach us in Kyoto.
The closest international airport to Kyoto is Kansai (KIX), approximately 75 minutes by the Haruka Express train. Osaka Itami (ITM) is also an option for domestic flights.
High-speed Shinkansen trains connect Kyoto to Tokyo (approx. 2h 15m) and Osaka (approx. 15 min). The JR Kyoto Station is the main hub and walkable from key hotels.
We will be providing complimentary shuttle buses from The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto to the ceremony venue and back to the hotel after the reception. Details to follow with your RSVP confirmation.
Taxis are readily available in Kyoto. GO Taxi and Uber are both available. We recommend downloading the GO app before you arrive for ease of booking.
We've reserved a block of rooms at special rates for our guests.
Our wedding venue hotel. We have reserved a block of rooms at a special rate — use code SOFIAJAMES26 when booking. Walking distance to the ceremony.
For those who prefer a more traditional Japanese experience, the Gion Hatanaka is a beautiful machiya ryokan in the historic Gion district — highly recommended.
Kinkaku-ji Garden, Kyoto — one of Japan's most serene and breathtaking locations.
Your presence is truly the greatest gift we could ask for. However, if you wish to celebrate with a gift, we have curated a small selection of meaningful options below.
Help us experience the wonders of Japan on our honeymoon — from ryokan stays to tea ceremonies and everything in between.
We are building our first home together and have curated a collection of beautiful, meaningful pieces from our favourite makers.
We are having an "unplugged" ceremony — we kindly ask all guests to put away their phones and cameras so everyone can be fully present. Our professional photographers will capture every moment and we will share the gallery with you shortly after.
We love your little ones, but we have chosen to make our wedding an adults-only evening from the reception onwards. Babies and infants under 12 months are of course welcome. Thank you for understanding.
July in Kyoto is warm and humid, with temperatures around 30–35°C (86–95°F). We recommend lightweight, breathable fabrics. The ceremony will be outdoors, so please plan accordingly.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many countries now have visa-free access to Japan for tourism. We recommend checking the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or contacting your local Japanese embassy.
Please reach out to our wedding coordinator Marta at marta@sofiajames2026.com. She will be happy to help with any questions or special requests.