Data from Little Red Note, Ctrip, and Mafengwo shows that between 2023 and 2024, posts and travelogues about Hanfu experiences and photos surged by over 60%. A search for “Hanfu + Xi’an check-in” on Xiaohongshu alone yields more than 150,000 results. Let’s be honest—many people buy Hanfu just for photos. After all, wearing Hanfu combines time-travel vibes, photography, and cultural immersion in one!  

But why do some people look stunning in Hanfu photos while others just normal? Even foreigners in Hanfu are common in my city, but nailing those shots takes skill. If you want to up your Hanfu photo game, keep reading.  

Ⅰ. Renting or Buying Hanfu  

For first-timers, renting is ideal—it’s cheap, convenient, and you won’t have to worry about maintenance. Historic cities like Luoyang and Xi’an are packed with Hanfu rental shops (search “Hanfu photography” locally). Book 1–3 days in advance, or earlier during peak seasons like holidays.  

If you plan to wear it multiple times or take it home, opt for lightweight styles on our site. We stock short, travel-friendly designs (e.g., modern summer hanfu Strawberry Ice Dew in our website) from top domestic brands like Shisanyu, Zhizaosi, Chonghui Hantang, Huazhaoji, and Hanshang Hualian.  

For everyday wear, check out our modern Hanfu section. These updated styles blend traditional elements with modern ease—no fussy layers or complicated styling, perfect for daily outings.  

Ⅱ. Choosing the Right Hanfu for Your Trip  

Pick styles based on your destination and season:  

– Summer outdoors: Try a qixiong ruqun (high-waisted top and skirt) with a sheer pibo . Tang-style Hanfu is lightweight, breathable, and flatters all body types—great for photos!  

– Winter travel: Go for Ming-style Hanfu with a cape. The Ming Dynasty endured a mini ice age, so these styles are warm, layered, and exude dignity.  

– Ancient towns or gardens: Song-style Hanfu (paired with a long beizi, a traditional coat) or Tang-style round-collar robes work best. Their quiet elegance matches the cultural vibe.  

– Indoor attractions: Opt for modern improved Hanfu or horse-faced skirt sets. They’re easy to move in, not bulky, and perfect for bustling days.  

Ⅲ. Styling Tips for Great Photos  

1. Color schemes:  

 – For ancient towns (e.g., Lijiang, Xitang): Soft hues like off-white + light pink or teal + gray-blue.  

– For red walls and green tiles (e.g., the Forbidden City, Dali): Rich tones like burgundy, navy, or forest green—they pop on camera.  

2. Hairstyles:  

– Beginners can use wig extensions or a topknot with headbands or tassels.  

 – Platforms like TikTok (Chinese version) and Xiaohongshu have easy “Hanfu hairstyle tutorials for beginners” with step-by-step pics.  

3. Makeup:  

  – Search for “Hanfu light makeup tutorials.”  

  – Start with basics: eyeliner, blush, and tinted lips to boost your complexion.  

4. Props:  

  – Fans, round fans, paper umbrellas, or scrolls (search “Hanfu photo props” online). Keep them portable!

 Ⅳ. Posing and Photography Hacks  

1. Poses: Try looking over your shoulder, lifting sleeves, holding a fan, or lowering your head for a side profile (credit: Xiaohongshu blogger Orange Jam Oval.o O).

2. Composition: Use pavilions, bridges, or tree shadows to frame your shot.  

3. Avoid: Stiff standing poses, selfies, or overly wide shots.  

Ⅴ. Travel Tips for Wearing Hanfu  

Practicality: Watch your skirt hem—wear comfy shoes like cloth shoes or white flats.  

Hot weather: Bring a small fan or mist spray.  

Bathroom breaks: Skip long, layered styles—they’re tricky!  

Best spots: Xi’an’s Datang Never Sleeps City (many Hanfu shops), Hangzhou Songcheng (Hanfu-friendly entry), Luoyang’s Sui-Tang Ruins, and Lijiang Ancient Town.  

Feminine looks:

Slight side turns with one hand raised (as if brushing the wind), hands crossed in front with a soft smile, or a sideways stance with one foot tiptoed and head tilted—elegant and lively.  

Masculine looks:

Stand tall (no slouching!). Choose loose, flowing fabrics for better drape. (credit: Xiaohongshu blogger Yi Xiao with a Li Bai’s carefree vibe ).  

Summary

I once came across a really touching post. It was about a Hanfu enthusiast who was taking photos in the Forbidden City while wearing Hanfu. A foreigner sitting nearby told them, “Your outfit is so special—excellent!” His wife added that she loved their hairstyle. Then another foreign tourist walked over specifically to ask if they could take a photo with his wife; he even handed them a small Chinese national flag to hold during the shot.

The poster ended by saying they hope one day, wearing Hanfu in the Forbidden City won’t feel “special” but “commonplace.” That really struck a chord. It goes to show that the beauty of Hanfu can truly be loved and embraced by people from all walks of life. ❤️

Hope you find your perfect Hanfu dress and add joy to your travels! Love this blog? Comment, share, and tag your friends.