Cinderella - Japanese Style

1- Changed into an ancient Japanese princess and walked around in the old village setting for one hour!! Even local Japanese asked to take photos with me.
2- Philosophy's Path under the blooming sakura is very romantic!
3- Ise grand shrine; Ise old street; Futami; Toba; Uji.

Quick Tips:

Book the Hen shin (makeover) service at Kyoto tourist information center well ahead for the Toei Eiga Mura Star Studio. The staff in the TIC is very helpful if you ask politely. She rang and booked for me.

Best Way To Get Around:

I got there by different ways. Once I walked from the Utano Youth Hostel by map. The other time, I traveled by bus. (Need to change buses if traveling from the hostel.)

Get JR West Rail pass outside Japan. Get Kyoto Bus pass in Kyoto. Rent a bike from youth hostel to avoid traffic jam.

4 bunk beds for a room. Each person got "bed curtains" and wall cabinet for privacy. Seperate female and male. There was a big common bath room with a very big bubbling bath. Very economical canteen.

It had an excellent view in back garden full of sakura trees!! You meet lots of friends from around the world. There's a washing and drying machine, locker service, & Internet service (all coin operated), free soap, shampoo and conditioner, and free colourful maps.

A tall young handsome staff member, Mr. Sato, speaks fluent English.

The YH is within walking distance to a number of cultural places (great temples).

It's large area of ancient-looking streets and sets inside with ocassional TV/moving taking in action. Pre-book a hen-shin with the shop at tourist information center one day ahead. I went and get made-up and dressed-up like a princess (Ohime sama)... (any roles you choose) and walk around in the ancient village for one hour. You'll be very happy...and prices vary depends on who you want to be. Really, it worths it! The entrance of the movieland is not too easy to find if you go by bus or on foot. Take a good map and keep asking. There are 3 shops there offering photography session with traditional clothing, but only one let you wear it and walk for one hour in the park. Ask and confirm that first!