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Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour

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Classic Japan Cherry Blossom

28 March – 10 April 2021


14 days | AU$8290* pp – EARLY BIRD PRICE – 8 places left | BOOK NOW

– Missed a place? Consider our Central Japan Cherry Blossom Tour
– Read our 2016 Tour Report


Intro & Highlights

Explore Japan during the beautiful cherry blossom season

Japan is a fascinating country full of incredible contrasts, and well-known for its beauty during the cherry blossom (sakura) season.

In this 14-day Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour you will get to experience the best that this diverse country has to offer at its prettiest time of year. Incredible photographic opportunities await you as we explore a melting pot of traditional culture, futuristic cities, diverse landscapes, and ancient temples among the sakura.

We explore street and night photography in Osaka and Tokyo, and visit famous areas including Dotonbori, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku and Ginza.

View the majestic beauty of Mt Fuji while setting up the perfect landscape shot as the shinkansen (bullet train) whizzes past.

Make a sobering visit to the Hiroshima Peace Park, then visit the stunning floating torii gate at Miyajima. See the unique wooden construction of Kintaikyo Bridge at Iwakuni.

Explore magnificent Kyoto temples and their incredible details, all surrounded by blossoming cherry trees. Visit some of the most incredible gardens in the world at Saihoji and Ritsurin.

See geisha up close and watch the elegance of their traditional art and service.

This is a travel and photography tour unlike any other. If you’ve ever wanted to visit Japan and come away with amazing photos, and better photography skills, and have a great time doing so, this is the tour for you!
Book now and take advantage of our special pricing!

Highlights

This tour provides a wealth of incredible photography opportunities and unlike any other during Japan’s cherry blossom season. We visit a selection of incredibly photogenic sights where you’ll learn how to improve your photography and create the images you’ve always wanted to.

Our highlights include:

  • Saihoji (the “Moss Temple”) – Kyoto’s most exclusive temple open to the public and a World Heritage landmark.
  • Tokyo Skytree – Asia’s tallest building at 634m with spectacular views over Tokyo.
  • Chidorigafuchi moat – arguably Tokyo’s most photogenic cherry blossom spot.
  • Tsukiji Fish Market – famous for its tuna auction, and due to move location from late 2015. Visit this Tokyo icon while it’s still in Tsukiji!
  • Ritsurin Garden – one of the best gardens in Japan, often rated alongside Japan’s “three most beautiful gardens” (I’ve been to all of them and think it’s the best!)
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine – famous for the thousands of red torii gates on the mountainside.
  • Otagi Nenbutsuji – one of Kyoto’s quirkiest and least-visited temples featuring hundreds of stone statues.
  • Visits to several Kyoto World Heritage monuments, including Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), Ginkakuji, Ryoanji, and Nijo Castle.
  • Himeji Castle – after years of renovations, Japan’s best castle has now reopened!
  • Miyajima – famous for its iconic “floating” torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.
  • Kintaikyo – this beautiful bridge is one of the best examples of wooden bridge architecture in the world.
  • Private geisha dinner – it’s just our small group with a geisha and interpreter!
  • Mount Yoshino – Japan’s most famous cherry blossom location for centuries.
  • Photographic training and personalised feedback from Julius Pang, a multi award winning photographer and Japan travel expert.
  • Great food and optional activities!
Inclusions

Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour includes:

    • 13 nights accommodation (3-4 star hotels)
    • 13 breakfasts, special geisha lunch
    • All local land transport (except airport transfers)
    • Japan Rail Pass
    • Photography tuition over entire tour
    • 2 photography workshops
    • Entry fees and cultural activities as listed in itinerary
    • 2 luggage transfers

Tour does not include:

    • International airfares
    • Travel insurance
    • Airport transfers
    • Meals and food not listed in itinerary
    • Portable wifi internet access
    • Beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
    • Personal spending money
    • Tips & gratuities (not expected in Japan)

Activities:
Tokyo Skytree, Tsukiji Market, Meiji Shrine, Shibuya, Himeji Castle, Ritsurin Garden, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Itsukushima Shrine, Kintai Bridge, Kinkakuji, Ryoanji, Todaiji, Gion walking tour, private geisha dinner, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Nanzenji, Ginkakuji, Nijo Castle, Otagi Nenbutsuji, Saihoji, Mount Yoshino.

Dates & Prices

28 March – 10 April 2020

$8690*pp $8290pp EARLY BIRD SPECIAL

BOOK NOW


* All prices shown are based per person twin share in Australian dollars and include all taxes, gratuities, land transport (except airport transfers), and some meals. Single supplement is $1290. Airfares are not included and must be organised separately. Prices and itineraries are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change. Payments online using Paypal attract a 3.6% service charge. No service charge applicable for direct deposit payments. Please check the inclusions and email us to confirm or to find out more details. View our full terms & conditions here.

Bookings

2020 Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour – Booking

To book your place on the 2020 Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour, you will need to complete a Booking Form and make a deposit*. We accept payments via direct deposit, Paypal or a credit card (through Paypal).

Click to download Booking Form


ONLINE PAYMENT


Choose Payment Option:



*NB: Deposit payment by Paypal includes a 3.6% service charge.


DIRECT DEPOSIT PAYMENT
Australian clients, please transfer payment to the following bank account and email the transaction record to admin@incrediblephototours.com:
Bankwest – Garden City, 125 Riseley Street, Booragoon WA 6154
BSB: 306066
Account number: 2762488
Account name: Incredible Photo Tours

International clients, we recommend using either Transferwise or Hifx for direct deposit payments to us. Please contact us for more details.


SEND US YOUR BOOKING FORM
Please email the completed booking form to us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will get back in touch with you regarding room preferences.


International Telegraphic Transfers:
If you are making an international telegraphic transfer (TT) into our account, please email us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will provide you with further details so you can proceed with the telegraphic transfer. Any bank fees incurred to accept the telegraphic transfer will be payable by the sender.


* Tour deposit is non-refundable and the balance payment of the tour is to be paid to our bank account via direct deposit or Paypal no later than 45 days of tour departure. Payment details will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your deposit payment and allocation of your place on the tour. Full Payment and balance payment online using Paypal includes a 3.6% service charge. There is no service charge using direct deposit. By making a Deposit or Full Payment you agree to our booking terms and conditions.

BOOK NOW


QUICK DETAILS


Start: Tokyo, 28 March 2021 (Sun)
End: Kyoto, 10 April 2021 (Sat)

Places visited: Tokyo, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Iwakuni, Himeji, Takamatsu, Kyoto, Osaka, Mount Yoshino

Transport: Bullet train, regular train, public bus, taxi*.
* please note this tour includes extensive use of public transport and walking as main methods of transport.

Accommodation: 3 to 4-star hotels in Tokyo, Hiroshima, Osaka, and Kyoto.

Type of tour: Small group photography tour
Group size: Min 2, Max 8
Fitness level: Moderate (please refer to FAQ)

Price: AUD$8690pp  $8290pp twin share – save $400!
(single supplement AU$1290)



TESTIMONIALS


I consider that when I “Googled” “photo tours in Japan” it was one of my luckiest days as it gave me the details for one of the best tours I have ever heard about.

Sue & Rob Pursell

Thank you very much for a wonderful tour of Japan. I thoroughly enjoyed all the places you took us to and also the great photo opportunities we had. Japan is an amazing place and it was a great introduction to all that Japan is, the traditions, customs, people, tourist attractions.

Maria Jenkins
Read more

ITINERARY

Day 1 – TOKYO | 28 Mar. 2021 (Sun)

Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport and make your way to our accommodation in central Tokyo. A welcome dinner will be held and we’ll discuss the photography and activities we will undertake in Tokyo over the next few days.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: D



Day 2 – TOKYO | 29 Mar. 2021 (Mon)

An action-packed first day exploring Tokyo, including visits to Harajuku, famous for its crazy fashion and youthful vibe, and the spacious and peaceful grounds of Meiji Shrine.

After lunch, we visit Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo's most popular temples. We finish off our day at Tokyo Skytree, the second-tallest structure in the world and tallest in Asia at 634m! There are amazing views to be had and fantastic opportunities to capture the Tokyo cityscape literally beneath you as the sun sets and the night lights illuminate the city.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B


Chidorigafuchi, Tokyo



Day 3 – TOKYO | 30 Mar. 2021 (Tue)

We start off our day with a morning visit Toyosu Market, the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. You can choose to have a delicious and amazing fresh sushi lunch after the visit.

After Tsukiji Market, we visit Tokyo Imperial Palace Gardens and Chidorigafuchi moat, one of Tokyo’s most photogenic sakura (cherry blossom) spots.

In the evening we visit Shibuya, home to the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing. We finish off our day with a visit to Ginza, home of the flagship stores of many luxury fashion brands and incredible architecture.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B


Meiji Shrine, Tokyo

Meiji Jingu (明治神宮)

Tuna inspection at Tsukiji Market

Buyer inspects tuna at Tsukiji Market.

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Station and Shibuya Crossing

Night view from Tokyo Skytree

Day 4 – TOKYO | 31 Mar. 2021 (Wed)

Shinkansen day! Often referred to as the bullet train, the shinkansen is Japan’s incredible high speed train and one of the country’s greatest technological achievements. After checkout, we will take a ride on the shinkansen south to Shizuoka prefecture to photograph the shinkansen against the backdrop of Mt Fuji (weather permitting).

We return back to Tokyo in the afternoon so sit back, relax, enjoy a bento lunch and experience a 270km/h train ride. The evening is free time for your to explore Tokyo on your own and get some souvenir shopping done.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B



Day 5 – HIMEJI | 1 Apr. 2021 (Thu)

Plenty of travel today as we make our way south to Hiroshima on the shinkansen. We stop en route at Himeji to visit Japan's most celebrated castle. Himeji Castle is Japan’s finest surviving example of castle architecture and it looks incredibly picturesque during spring with its many sakura in bloom.

Accom: Hiroshima
Meals: B

* The Main Building of the Peace Memorial Museum is undergoing renovation work until spring 2018. The East Building still remains open for visiting.


Shinkansen and Mount Fuji



Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle

Day 6 – HIROSHIMA, IWAKUNI, MIYAJIMA | 2 Apr. 2021 (Fri)

This morning we visit Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the location of the Atomic Bomb Dome, Children’s Peace Monument (the “Sadako statue”), the Memorial Cenotaph, and the Peace Memorial Museum*. These monuments make for a moving experience and time for contemplation.

After lunch we make our way to Iwakuni City. Iwakuni is home to Kintai Bridge (Kintaikyo), a multi-arch bridge made entirely of wood and without the use of any nails. Kintaikyo is one of the finest examples of wooden bridge architecture in the world and is considered one of the three most beautiful bridges in Japan.

From late afternoon, we visit Miyajima, home to Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic “floating” torii gate in the water. This sight is ranked as one of Japan’s three best views.

Accom: Hiroshima
Meals: B


Miyajima

Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社)

Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima

Atomic Bomb Dome (原爆ドーム), Hiroshima (広島)

Kintaikyo Bridge, Iwakuni

Kintaikyo Bridge (錦帯橋)

Day 7 – KURASHIKI, TAKAMATSU | 3 Apr. 2021 (Sat)

We visit Kurashiki this morning with its beautiful canal-lined Bikan Historical Quarter, featuring buildings dating back to the Edo period.

In the afternoon, we make our way across to Shikoku island via the Great Seto Bridge (13.1km long!) and to the city of Takamatsu, where we visit Ritsurin Garden. This is one of Japan’s greatest gardens and is often ranked alongside the famous “three most beautiful gardens of Japan” which are Korakuen (in Okayama), Kenrokuen (in Kanazawa), and Kairakuen (in Mito).

We make our way to Osaka in the evening and checkin. The evening is free time to explore on your own, with the neon-lit buildings of the Dotonbori food and shopping district just a short train ride away.

Accom: Osaka
Meals: B


Kurashiki


Ritsurin Garden, Takamatsu

Day 8 – NARA, OSAKA | 4 Apr. 2021 (Sun)

In the morning we head to Nara. Nara was a former capital of Japan and has several significant historical monuments. We will be visiting Todaiji temple, one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, and housing the world’s largest wooden Buddha statue inside. We will also walk around Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer!

The afternoon is free time and we will provide some ideas for things to do, or you can simply take the time to sit back and relax.

In the evening, we regroup and visit Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous food and nightlife district. Osaka is home to some of Japan’s famous street food, including okonomiyaki (Japanese-style “pancake”), and takoyaki (octopus-filled batter balls – you just have to try it!).

We will explore Dotonbori and you will get to see and shoot the enormous neon signs surrounding Ebisu Bridge.

Accom: Osaka
Meals: B



Day 9 – KYOTO | 5 Apr. 2021 (Mon)

We make our way to Kyoto early in the morning and two of Kyoto’s most famous temples today, the gold-covered Kinkakuji, and Ryoanji, featuring Japan’s most famous zen rock garden.

We spend the afternoon in Arashiyama and enjoy the atmosphere and street food on offer. In the evening we make our way to downtown Kyoto to visit Nishiki Market, famous for selling many of Kyoto's food specialties.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B


Todaiji, Nara

Todaiji, Nara

Rainy evening around Dotonbori


Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Day 10 – KYOTO | 6 Apr. 2021 (Tue)

A very early start as we visit Fushimi Inari Shrine for sunrise, with its thousands of torii gates making seemingly endless vermillion tunnel up the mountain side. The gates look amazing as the light changes from twilight to sunrise.

Returning to downtown Kyoto, enjoy some free time until the afternoon to explore Kyoto on your own. Enjoy the fun atmosphere at Maruyama Park, where locals hanami (flower viewing) parties will be celebrated with plenty of drinking involved!

Mid-afternoon, we will visit the geisha district of Gion and view a performance of the Miyako Odori, Kyoto’s famous springdance performance staged by the geisha of Gion Kobu.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B


Fushimi Inari Shrine lanterns

Beautiful lanterns at Fushimi Inari Shrine (伏見稲荷大社)

Fushimi Inari Shrine torii gates

Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社)

Day 11 – YOSHINO | 7 Apr. 2021 (Wed)

Today we head to countryside Nara to visit Mount Yoshino (Yoshinoyama), Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spot. There are thousands of sakura trees planted on Mount Yoshino, creating a beautiful patchwork of pink during sakura season as you look down the mountain.

We visit several temples as we make our way up the mountain and stop at various viewpoints. The hike up is vigorous at times but the reward is a glorious view of the sakura-dotted mountainside.

We return to Kyoto in the evening where you have free time to explore around downtown Kawaramachi.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B


Mount Yoshino

Mount Yoshino (吉野山)

Day 12 – KYOTO | 8 Apr. 2021 (Thu)

This morning we visit a quirky and very off-the-beaten-track temple in Kyoto, Otagi Nenbutsuji. This temple features hundreds of stone faces, all different and custom-made.

After lunch, we visit the spectacular Saihoji*, also known as Kokedera (“Moss Temple”). This is Japan’s most exclusive temple open for public access and requires advance booking due to a small daily visitor quota. Kokedera’s moss garden is regarded by many as one of the best zen gardens in the world.

After dinner, we visit Nijo Castle and its spectacular night time cherry blossom illumination.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B

* Saihoji has a visitor quota and places are subject to availability from the temple and are not guaranteed. We will visit an alternative temple if we cannot secure places for all our guests.


Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple


Saihoji, Kyoto

Saihoji (西芳寺)

Nijo Castle

Sakura at Nijo Castle (二条城)

Day 13 – KYOTO | 9 Apr. 2021 (Fri)

In the morning, we visit some more of Kyoto’s famous attractions including Nanzenji, the Philosopher’s Path, and Ginkakuji (“Silver Pavilion”).

We meet up in Gion around lunchtime for one of the highlights of our trip – a walking tour of Gion guided by a Kyoto guide, with a special private lunch accompanied by a geiko, there to serve and talk with us! Learn more about the world of geiko while enjoying Kyoto cuisine. This is a truly exclusive lunch, it’s just our group, our interpreter, and the maiko. And yes, you will have the chance to take photos with the maiko!

After our amazing maiko lunch, the afternoon is free for you to explore Kyoto on your own and catch up on shopping.

We return to our hotel in the evening, and celebrate with our final dinner together and share the best images we have taken over the past two weeks!

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B, L, D



Day 14 – KYOTO | 10 Apr. 2021 (Sat)

The end of our tour and after checkout we will assist you with transfers to the airport for your flight home.

Accom: N/A
Meals: -

Geiko

April 3, 2019/by Julius Pang
https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png 0 0 Julius Pang https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png Julius Pang2019-04-03 17:27:172020-03-20 09:44:09Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour

Classic Japan Autumn Tour

  • Enkoji, Kyoto
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社)
  • Hogonin
  • Maiko Toshinana
  • Himeji Castle (姫路城)
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Classic Japan Autumn Tour

12th – 29th November 2018


18 days | TOUR PRICE – AU$8395* pp | SPECIAL PRICE – SOLD OUT

– Missed a place? Consider our Kyushu Japan Tour
– Read our 2016 Tour Report


Intro

Experience the vivid autumn colours of Japan!

Autumn/fall is one of the most picturesque times in Japan, when maple leaves transition through majestic colours of the sun. Join us on our incredible 18-day Classic Japan Autumn Tour, where you will experience the best this season has to offer – and how to capture the pictures that will reflect memories for a lifetime.

You name it, Japan has it all – traditional culture proudly practiced in modern day, leading futuristic cities, diverse landscapes showcasing spectacular natural wonders, and ancient temples preserving thousands of years of history.

Led by Julius Pang, a Japan expert and award-winning travel photographer, you’ll learn how to take better travel photos and visit the best spots in Japan to take amazing photos of the autumn colours.

We roam the great cities of Osaka and Tokyo, capturing the buzz of the night and the bustle of the day. Experience the energy and buzz of Dotonbori, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku and Ginza, some of the most famous urban areas in Japan, and perfect for street photography and cityscapes.

Leaving Tokyo, we visit Lake Kawaguchi, part of the Fuji Five Lakes area, which boasts stunning views of Mount Fuji. No visit to Japan is complete without experiencing a Japanese castle, and we visit to two best ones, Matsumoto Castle and Himeji Castle.

After paying our respects with a sombering visit to Hiroshima Peace Park, we journey to nearby Miyajima island, home to the World Heritage listed Itsukushima Shrine and its stunning ‘floating’ torii gate. We also visit  Korakuen (one of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens”) and Ritsurin, a masterpiece of Japanese garden design.

Our trip also includes a visit to Mount Koya, the center of Shingon Buddhism, where we overnight at a temple lodging (shukubo), visit the amazing Okunoin cemetery, and get a glimpse at the daily lives of monks.

No trip to Japan is complete without a visit to magnificent Kyoto, mighty in temples, glorious in landscape, and saturated in proud culture. This is the city to witness geisha up close and watch the elegance of their traditional art and service, a peek into their exclusive world. The gardens of Enkoji, Eikando, Hogonin, and Tofukuji are at their best – vivid, rich, and popping with colours red, orange, yellow and green.

We finish off with a visit to the Snow Monkeys in the Yudanaka Onsen area. Capture the antics of these world famous monkeys and enjoy a soak in a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring)!

This is the tour that shows you the postcard shots, the history, and the secret hot spots of Japan. Book now for our early bird special – all you need is your camera and passport!

Highlights

This tour provides a wealth of incredible photography opportunities and unlike any other during Japan’s autumn season. We visit a selection of incredibly photogenic sights where you’ll learn how to improve your photography and create the images you’ve always wanted to.

Our highlights include:

  • Autumn colours at their peak during the season!
  • Tofukuji Temple – one of Kyoto’s most famous autumn colour spots.
  • Rurikoin – One of Kyoto’s most exclusive temples open to the public only seasonally.
  • Mount Koya temple stay – Experience an overnight temple stay on Mount Koya, the centre of Shingon Buddhism.
  • Tokyo Skytree – Asia’s tallest building at 634m with spectacular views over Tokyo.
  • Tsukiji Fish Market – famous for its tuna auction and amazing variety of seafood.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine – famous for the thousands of red torii gates on the mountainside.
  • Todaiji Temple – besides being one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, Todaiji also houses the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.
  • Visits to several Kyoto World Heritage sites, including Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), Ginkakuji, and Ryoanji.
  • Matsumoto Castle – an original Japanese castle, often considered as beautiful as Himeji Castle.
  • Himeji Castle – Japan’s finest original castle
  • Miyajima – famous for its iconic “floating” torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine.
  • Private geisha lunch and photo session – it’s just our small group with a geisha and interpreter!
  • Photographic training and personalised feedback from Julius Pang, a multi award winning photographer and Japan travel expert.
  • Great food and optional activities!
Inclusions

Japan Classic Autumn Colours Tour includes:

  • 17 nights accommodation (incl. 1 night in ryokan, and 1 night in temple stay)
  • 17 breakfasts, 3 dinners
  • All local land transport (train, bus, taxi – except airport transfers)
  • 14-day Japan Rail Pass
  • Photography tuition over entire tour
  • Entry fees and cultural activities as listed in itinerary
  • 3 luggage transfers

Tour does not include:

  • International airfares
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals and food not listed in itinerary
  • Additional local transport and entry fees outside of itinerary
  • Portable wifi internet access (available through our partners Japan Wifi Rental Service)
  • Beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
  • Personal spending money
  • Tips & gratuities (not routinely expected in Japan)
Dates & Prices

12 – 29 Nov 2018

TOUR PRICING – $8395* pp

Limited places available for this Japan autumn photography tour!

BOOK NOW

* All prices shown are based per person in Australian dollars and include all taxes, gratuities, land transport, and some meals as indicated. Accommodation provided is based on twin share. Single supplement available at additional cost of $1295. Airfares are not included and must be organised separately. Prices and itineraries at time of publishing but are subject to change. Payments online using Paypal attract a 3.6% service charge. No service charge applicable for direct deposit payments. Please call or email us for more details. View our full terms & conditions here.

Bookings

2018 Classic Japan Autumn Tour – Booking

To book your place on the Classic Japan Autumn Colour Tour, you will need to complete a Booking Form and make a deposit*. We accept payments via direct deposit, Paypal or a credit card (through Paypal).

Click to download Booking Form


ONLINE PAYMENT


Choose Payment Option:




DIRECT DEPOSIT PAYMENT
For direct deposits, please transfer payment to the following bank account and email the transaction record to admin@incrediblephototours.com:
Bankwest – Garden City, 125 Riseley Street, Booragoon WA 6154
BSB: 306066
Account number: 2762488
Account name: Incredible Photo Tours


SEND US YOUR BOOKING FORM
Please email the completed booking form to us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will get back in touch with you regarding room preferences.


International Telegraphic Transfers:
If you are making an international telegraphic transfer (TT) into our account, please email us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will provide you with further details so you can proceed with the telegraphic transfer. Any bank fees incurred to accept the telegraphic transfer will be payable by the sender.


* Tour deposit is non-refundable and the balance payment of the tour is to be paid to our bank account via direct deposit or Paypal no later than 30 days of tour departure. Payment details will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your deposit payment and allocation of your place on the tour. Full Payment and balance payment online using Paypal includes a 3.6% service charge. There is no service charge using direct deposit. By making a Deposit or Full Payment you agree to our booking terms and conditions.

BOOK NOW


QUICK DETAILS


Start: Tokyo, Mon 12 Nov. 2018
End: Tokyo, Thu 29 Nov. 2018

Places visited: Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchi,  Himeji, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Okayama, Mt Koya, Matsumoto, Yudanaka Onsen, Osaka.

Transport: Bullet train, regular train, public bus, taxi

Accommodation: 3-4 star Hotels in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Himeji, Okayama and Osaka; Ryokan (Japanese style inn) in Lake Kawaguchi; Shukubo (temple lodging) in Mt Koya.

Extra days: Pre and post tour accommodation available. Book here.

Type of tour: Small group photography tour
Group size: Min 4, Max 8
Fitness level: Moderate-High (please refer to FAQ)

Price: AU$8395 pp twin share
(single supplement AU$1295)



TESTIMONIALS


I really enjoyed the Classic Japan Autumn Tour. Julius is an excellent guide and an amazing tutor.  His greatest skill is his interest in people, his ability to lead and encourage a group is something that has to be seen to be believed. His focus on customer service is way beyond the norm. I can wholeheartedly recommend this tour.

Ciarán O'Muiri

I greatly enjoyed my photography holiday to Japan with Incredible Photo Tours and Julius. It was an action packed holiday with an excellent overview of Japan and ample time to take photographs.

Jan Ison

My partner and I went on the Japan Autumn Tour 2016 with Incredible Photo Tours. Not having gone on a photography tour before we were both a little anxious and did not know what to expect.

What we received was nothing short of an amazing experience.

Michele & Peter

ITINERARY

Day 1 – TOKYO – [Mon 12th Nov]

Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport and make your way to our accommodation located in Asakusa. If you arrive early you can take the opportunity to explore the world-famous shopping area of Ginza or around Tokyo Station.

A welcome dinner will be held and we’ll discuss the photography and activities we will undertake in Tokyo over the next few days.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: D



Day 2 – TOKYO – [Tue 13th Nov]

A packed first day as we start off with an early morning visit to Tokyo's most famous temple – Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. Followed by Tsukiji Market*, famous for its early morning tuna auction, and in the process of moving in 2017. You can enjoy a super fresh sushi meal nearby after seeing all the incredible variety of seafood on sale.

We next visit Harajuku, the youth fashion hub of Tokyo, where you'll encounter all manner of crazy fashion and sweet snacks galore!

A little further away is Shibuya, home to the world's busiest pedestrian crossing. Be part of the experience of crossing the street with a thousand other people at the same time!

We finish off our day at Tokyo Skytree, the second-tallest structure in the world and tallest in Asia at 634m! There are amazing views to be had and fantastic opportunities to capture the Tokyo cityscape literally beneath you as the sun sets and the night lights illuminate the city.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B

* Tsukiji Market banned photography in the inner market area as of Nov. 2017. During our visit to the inner market we will not be encouraging photography. If you are interested in visiting the tuna auction this requires arriving at Tsukiji Market by 2:00am in order to safely secure a spot for the auction (first in best dressed, with only 120 places available for two auctions) and will not be accompanied by the tour leader. The first auction is from 5:25-5:50am, the second from 5:50-6:15am. We do not consider Tsukiji Market and the tuna auction photographer-friendly. We have an alternative and much better tuna auction we can visit at the end of the tour. Tsukiji Market is also due to move location to Toyosu on 11th October 2018, and the tuna auction may be suspended. Please contact us for more details if you are interested in the Tsukiji Tuna Auction and the photography restrictions.



Night view from Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo and Mount Fuji (東京と富士山)

Sensoji

Sensoji (浅草寺)

Sensoji

"God-sized" straw sandal (大草鞋, owaraji) at Sensoji (浅草寺)

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing

Day 3 – TOKYO, LAKE KAWAGUCHI – [Wed 14th Nov]

A morning visit to Showa Memorial Park, one of the largest parks in Tokyo and a fantastic autumn colours location. The highlight here are the ginkgo trees, including a beautiful ginkgo avenue.

In the afternoon we make our way to Lake Kawaguchi, with its famous views of Mount Fuji.

Accom: Lake Kawaguchi
Meals: B



Day 4 – LAKE KAWAGUCHI – [Thu 15th Nov]

A brand new addition to our tour this year is Lake Kawaguchi, part of the Fuji Five Lakes area and located 3 hours from Tokyo. Lake Kawaguchi is a popular spot for views of Mount Fuji in Japan, and is especially photogenic during autumn season.

Accom: Lake Kawaguchi
Meals: B



Day 5 – LAKE KAWAGUCHI – [Fri 16th Nov]

A whole day exploring around Lake Kawaguchi today and with good weather some great views of Mount Fuji.

We depart Lake Kawaguchi in the late afternoon and make our way down to Okayama.

Accom: Okayama
Meals: B


Showa Kinen Park, Tokyo


Autumn leaves and Mount Fuji
(Image credit: skyseeker)

Autumn leaves and Mount Fuji

Day 6 – HIROSHIMA, MIYAJIMA – [Sat 17th Nov]

Hiroshima is best known as the first city to suffer an atomic bomb attack in history. Despite this tragic event, the city was rebuilt after the war and a number of monuments are present to remember the atomic bomb victims and to promote peace.

We spend the day in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, the location of the Atomic Bomb Dome, Children’s Peace Monument (the “Sadako statue”), the Memorial Cenotaph, and the Peace Memorial Museum. These monuments make for a moving experience and time for contemplation.

From late afternoon, we visit Miyajima, home to Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic “floating” torii gate in the water. This sight is ranked as one of Japan’s three best views.

Accom: Okayama
Meals: B



Day 7 – HIMEJI, KOYASAN – [Sun 18th Nov]

We bid farewell to Okayama in the morning and head to Himeji to visit one of Japan's most famous buildings, Himeji Castle. This castle is considered the most beautiful of Japan's original castles.

After lunch, we have a long transit to Mount Koya (Koyasan), the center of Shingon Buddhism. We stay overnight at a temple lodging (shukubo) where you can get a taste of a monk's lifestyle. There is also the option to visit the Okunoin Temple cemetery as part of a night tour* run by one of Mt Koya's temples.

Accom: Temple stay
Meals: B, D

* Okunoin night tour subject to weather and temple scheduling.

Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima

Genbaku Dome (原爆ドーム)

Miyajima

Floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine (厳島神社)

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle (姫路城)

Okunion Cemetery, Mt Koya

Okunoin (奥の院) Cemetery

Day 8 – KOYASAN, OKAYAMA – [Mon 19th Nov]

We have an early start to experience the unique morning prayer ritual of our temple before breakfast. We explore more of Mount Koya including Okunoin Temple, where the Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism is enshrined. The cemetery surrounding Okunoin is the largest in Japan.

In the centre of town, we visit Kongobunji Temple, the headquarters of Shingon Buddhism and featuring beautiful screen doors and Banryutei, the largest rock garden in Japan.

After lunch, we make our way to Osaka.

Accom: Osaka
Meals: B



Day 9 – OKAYAMA, KYOTO – [Tue 20th Nov]

In the morning, we visit Korakuen, one of Japan's "Three Great Gardens" and with the stunning backdrop of Okayama Castle, also known as "crow castle" due to its black exterior.

The afternoon will feature a special editing workshop and photography critique sessions. In the evening, we make our way to Osaka.

Accom: Osaka
Meals: B



Day 10 – KYOTO – [Wed 21st Nov]

This morning we visit Arashiyama in western Kyoto, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike especially during cherry blossom and autumn colour seasons. Among the attractions in Arashiyama are the famous Sagano bamboo forest, the Kimono Forest, and Jokkajoji Temple, with its stunning autumn colours.

The afternoon is free time to explore more of Kyoto on your own.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B

Morning prayer ritual

Morning prayer ritual at Koyasan

Eikando autumn illuminations

Sagano Bamboo Grove (嵯峨野竹林)

Kimono Forest in Arashiyama

Kimono Forest in Arashiyama

Day 11 – KYOTO – [Thu 22nd Nov]

A free day morning to relax and explore Kyoto on your own. We recommend visiting the following temples: the gold-covered Kinkakuji (also known as the “Golden Pavilion”); Ryoanji, featuring Japan’s most famous zen rock garden.

After lunch, we visit Komyoin, a beautiful small temple with a stunning moss garden.

In the evening, we visit one of Japan's most beautiful autumn illuminations at Eikando Temple.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B


Eikando autumn illuminations

Eikando (永観堂)


Day 12 – KYOTO – [Fri 23rd Nov]

A pre-dawn start as we visit Fushimi Inari Shrine and its thousands of torii gates, which make a seemingly endless vermillion tunnel up the mountain side. Try finding one of the lanterns attached to a gate! The gates look amazing as the light changes with sunrise.

Our next location is Rurikoin, an off-the-beaten-track temple with incredible atmosphere and stunning autumn colours.

Our day finishes with Enkoji, a quiet temple with a unique sand garden and autumn colours.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B



Rurikoin Temple

Rurikoin

Kinkakuji

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Ryoanji

Ryoanji (龍安寺)

Komyoin

Komyoin

Fushimi Inari Taisha

Torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha (伏見稲荷大社)

Enkoji, Kyoto

Enkoji

Day 13 – KYOTO, OSAKA – [Sat 24th Nov]

For our final day in Kyoto we have have an early start with a visit to Tofukuji temple, one of Japan’s most famous autumn colour locations.

Next is our tour's special highlight – a walking tour of Gion guided by a Kyoto guide, with a special lunch followed by a photography session with a maiko (apprentice geisha), there to serve and talk with us! Learn more about the world of geisha while taking photos in a traditional Kyoto teahouse. This is a truly exclusive gathering, it’s just our tour group, our guide/interpreter, and the geisha. And yes, you will have the chance to take photos with the geisha!

The late afternoon is free time before we make our way to Osaka.

Accom: Osaka
Meals: B


Tofukuji

Autumn colours at Tofukuji (東福寺)


Day 14 – NARA, OSAKA – [Sun 25th Nov]

Today we head to Nara, a former capital of Japan with several significant historical monuments. We will be visiting Todaiji temple, one of the world’s largest wooden buildings, and housing the world’s largest wooden Buddha statue inside. We will also walk around Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer!

In the evening, we visit Dotonbori, Osaka’s famous food and nightlife district. Osaka is home to some of Japan’s famous street food, including okonomiyaki (Japanese-style “pancake”), and takoyaki (octopus-filled batter balls – you just have to try it!).

We will explore Dotonbori and you will get to see and shoot the enormous neon signs surrounding Ebisu Bridge.

Accom: Osaka
Meals: B


Maiko Toshisumi

Maiko Toshisumi (とし純)

Young deer in Nara Park

Young deer in Nara Park

Todaiji

Todaiji (東大寺)

Day 15 – OSAKA – [Mon 26th Nov]

This morning is free for you explore on your own until lunchtime. Take the opportunity to visit some of Osaka's landmarks, including Osaka Castle, the Umeda Sky Building, or Osaka Aquarium. If you are especially keen, you could also visit the Osaka Central Wholesale Market* which has its own tuna auction, a much more intimate affair compared to Tsukiji's popular one.

We make our way to Matsumoto from lunchtime.

Accom: Matsumoto
Meals: B

* The Osaka Market is open Mon-Sat, except national & temporary holidays. The tuna auction starts at 4:15am, and currently there are no restrictions on tourist access, but this may be subject to change.



Day 16 – MATSUMOTO – [Tue 27th Nov]

We visit Matsumoto Castle today, one of the best original castles in Japan, and incredibly photogenic with its distinctive black cladding and elegant moat and surrounding gardens.

We make our way to the Yudanaka Onsen area in the afternoon.

Accom: Yudanaka Onsen
Meals: B



Day 17 – SNOW MONKEYS, TOKYO – [Wed 28th Nov]

An early morning start to check out snow monkeys! The snow monkeys in Yudanaka are famous for their habit of soaking in hot springs. They especially like a long soak once the colder weather starts from late autumn, all through the long winter in this area.

We return to Tokyo by mid afternoon, where there is free time for you to relax or catch up on shopping. In the evening, we have our farewell dinner.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B


Snow monkeys

Snow monkeys


Day 18 – TOKYO – [Thu 29th Nov]

The end of our tour and after checkout we will assist you with transport advice to the airport for your flight home or your continuing travel in Japan.

Accom: N/A
Meals: B

Tuna auction in Osaka


Rainy evening around Dotonbori


Himeji Castle


Baby snow monkey

Baby snow monkey

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Kyushu Japan Tour

  • Mt Sarakurayama night view

    Sarakurayama night view
  • Kokura Castle and Riverwalk

  • Kikuchi Keikoku Gorge

  • Kurokawa Onsen

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Kyushu Japan Tour

28th October – 12th November 2019


16 days | AU$6495* pp | EARLY BIRD PRICE – 6 places left


Intro

Experience exotic Kyushu!

Head to southern Japan and experience exotic Kyushu! Join us on our incredible 15-day Kyushu Japan Tour, where you will experience stunning natural landscapes, deep history, and exquisite cuisine of this region.

Led by Julius Pang, a Japan expert and award-winning travel photographer, you’ll learn how to take better travel photos and visit the best spots in Kyushu, an off-the-beaten track location that is full of some of the most stunning scenery in Japan.

Starting from the Osaka, the second largest city in Japan after Tokyo and the economic centre of the Kansai region. The Dotonbori district is famed as Japan’s kitchen, full of delicious food to sample, while Osaka Castle and the Umeda Sky Building are well-known landmarks in this bustling city.

We explore the gateway to Kyushu, the city of Kitakyushu, famous as an industrial base in Japan and featuring some of Japan’s most stunning night views. Further west is Fukuoka, with its bustling international flavour and famous as the home of tonkotsu ramen. 

Thanks to the support of the Kitakyushu City Tourism Division, TOTO, and West Japan Railway Company, we are able to bring you some unique experiences in Kitakyushu and Fukuoka not available on any other tour! These include a factory visit to a TOTO factory, and a tour of a shinkansen (bullet train) railyard!

Our Kyushu tour also coincides with the Karatsu Kunchi Festival, one of Japan’s top 3 float festivals and a featuring intricate and beautiful hikiyama floats. We also visit Nagasaki, a bustling port city with a tragic history as the second city to be destroyed by atomic bomb. Offshore from Nagasaki is the incredible Hashima Island, nicknamed “Battleship Island” (Gunkanjima) due to its shape.

Right in the south of Kyushu is Kagoshima, situated right next to Mount Sakurajima, one of the world’s most active volcanoes! We visit Yakushima via high-speed jetfoil. This small island features some of Japan’s most pristine natural landscape, with an ancient cedar forest covering most of the island. The stunning Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine here was the inspiration for the forest in the famous animated film Princess Mononoke.

Our trip also includes a visit to Mount Aso, the largest active volcano in Japan, and featuring one of the world’s largest calderas. We also visit the famed Kurokawa Onsen in countryside Kumamoto Prefecture, often regarded as the best hot spring area in Japan.

We finish off with a visit to the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto.  This amazing city is deep in history and full of stunning temples, shrines, and gardens. The gardens of Hogonin Temple and Komyoin Temple will be popping with autumn colours.

This is the tour that takes you off-the-beaten track, and shows you the secret hot spots of Japan. Book now for special pricing – all you need is your camera and passport!

Highlights

This tour provides a wealth of incredible photography opportunities and unlike any other during Japan’s autumn season. We visit a selection of incredibly photogenic sights where you’ll learn how to improve your photography and create the images you’ve always wanted to.

Our highlights include:

  • Kitakyushu – one of Japan’s most important industrial cities, and the gateway to Kyushu.
  • Mount Sarakurayama – one of Japan’s top 3 night views.
  • Dazaifu – a former administrative centre for the whole of Kyushu.
  • Hashima (Gunkanjima) – nicknamed “Battleship Island” due to its shape, this historic place was once the world’s most densely populated area.
  • Karatsu Kunchi Festival – one of Japan’s top 3 “float” festivals, featuring giant and intricate hikiyama floats that are paraded through Karatsu City.
  • Nagasaki – despite a tragic past as the second city to be destroyed by an atomic bomb, Nagasaki was rebuilt and is now a vibrant port city.
  • Mount Inasayama – another one of Japan’s top 3 night views – we cover two on this tour!
  • Kikuchi Keikoku Gorge – a beautiful gorge in remote Kumamoto prefecture, and one of the premier “forest bathing” sites in Japan.
  • Mount Aso – the largest active volcano in Japan and featuring one of the world’s largest calderas.
  • Takachiho Gorge – one of Japan’s most picturesque gorges, featuring sheer cliffs of basalt and Minainotaki Waterfall cascading down to the Gokase River below.
  • Kurokawa Onsen – one of Japan’s most famous and beautiful hot spring areas.
  • Yakushima – one of Japan’s natural wonders, featuring an ancient cedar forest with some of Japan’s oldest trees, and the stunning Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine.
  • TOTO Factory and Museum – a unique factory tour experience of one of the world’s largest toiler makers, and a beautifully designed museum covering the 100-year history of TOTO.
  • Private tour of West Japan Railway Company railyard – an exclusive and rare opportunity to see Japan Rail’s railyard up close in Fukuoka!
  • Autumn colours coming alive in Kyushu and Kyoto.
  • Photographic training and personalised feedback from Julius Pang, a multi award winning photographer and Japan travel expert.
  • Great food and optional activities!
Inclusions

Kyushu Japan Tour includes:

  • 14 nights accommodation
  • 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners
  • All local land transport (train, bus, taxi – except airport transfers)
  • Rail Passes
  • Photography tuition over entire tour
  • Entry fees and cultural activities as listed in itinerary
  • 2 luggage transfers

Tour does not include:

  • International airfares
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals and food not listed in itinerary
  • Additional local transport and entry fees outside of itinerary
  • Portable wifi internet access (available through our partners Japan Wifi Rental Service)
  • Beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
  • Personal spending money
  • Tips & gratuities (not routinely expected in Japan)
Dates & Prices

28 October – 11 Nov 2018

SPECIAL PRICING – $5895* pp

Limited places available for this special Kyushu photography tour!

BOOK NOW

* All prices shown are based per person in Australian dollars and include all taxes, gratuities, land transport, and some meals as indicated. Accommodation provided is based on twin share. Single supplement available at additional cost of $895. Airfares are not included and must be organised separately. Prices and itineraries at time of publishing but are subject to change. Payments online using Paypal attract a 3.6% service charge. No service charge applicable for direct deposit payments. Please call or email us for more details. View our full terms & conditions here.

Bookings

2018 Kyushu Japan Tour – Booking

To book your place on the Kyushu Japan Tour, you will need to complete a Booking Form and make a deposit*. We accept payments via direct deposit, Paypal or a credit card (through Paypal).

Click to download Booking Form


ONLINE PAYMENT

Bookings closed – Please contact us about our 2019 Japan tours


DIRECT DEPOSIT PAYMENT
For direct deposits, please transfer payment to the following bank account and email the transaction record to admin@incrediblephototours.com:
Bankwest – Garden City, 125 Riseley Street, Booragoon WA 6154
BSB: 306066
Account number: 2762488
Account name: Incredible Photo Tours


SEND US YOUR BOOKING FORM
Please email the completed booking form to us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will get back in touch with you regarding room preferences.


International Telegraphic Transfers:
If you are making an international telegraphic transfer (TT) into our account, please email us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will provide you with further details so you can proceed with the telegraphic transfer. Any bank fees incurred to accept the telegraphic transfer will be payable by the sender.


* Tour deposit is non-refundable and the balance payment of the tour is to be paid to our bank account via direct deposit or Paypal no later than 30 days of tour departure. Payment details will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your deposit payment and allocation of your place on the tour. Full Payment and balance payment online using Paypal includes a 3.6% service charge. There is no service charge using direct deposit. By making a Deposit or Full Payment you agree to our booking terms and conditions.

BOOK NOW


QUICK DETAILS


Start: Osaka, Mon. 28 Oct. 2019
End: Kyoto, Tue 12 Nov. 2019

Places visited: Osaka, Kitakyushu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka, Karatsu, Nagasaki, Yakushima, Kagoshima, Mount Aso, Takachiho, Kurokawa Onsen, Kyoto.

Transport: Bullet train, regular train, public bus, private van/minibus.

Accommodation: 3-star hotels in Osaka, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Yakushima, Kagoshima and Kyoto. Business hotel in Aso.

Extra days: Pre and post tour accommodation available. Book here.

Type of tour: Small group photography tour
Group size: Min 2, Max 6
Fitness level: Moderate-High (please refer to FAQ)

Price: AU$6495 pp twin share
(single supplement AU$895)

Special price until 15th September 2019.



TESTIMONIALS


I really enjoyed the Classic Japan Autumn Tour. Julius is an excellent guide and an amazing tutor.  His greatest skill is his interest in people, his ability to lead and encourage a group is something that has to be seen to be believed. His focus on customer service is way beyond the norm. I can wholeheartedly recommend this tour.

Ciarán O'Muiri

I greatly enjoyed my photography holiday to Japan with Incredible Photo Tours and Julius. It was an action packed holiday with an excellent overview of Japan and ample time to take photographs.

Jan Ison

My partner and I went on the Japan Autumn Tour 2016 with Incredible Photo Tours. Not having gone on a photography tour before we were both a little anxious and did not know what to expect.

What we received was nothing short of an amazing experience.

Michele & Peter

ITINERARY

Day 1 – OSAKA – [Sun 27th Oct]

Arrive at Kansai International Airport and make your way to our accommodation located in Osaka. If you arrive early you can take the opportunity to explore the around Osaka Station, and visit the world-famous restaurant and entertainment district of Dotonbori.

A welcome dinner will be held and we’ll discuss the photography and activities we will undertake over the next few days.

Accom: Osaka
Meals: D



Day 2 – OSAKA, KITAKYUSHU – [Mon 28th Nov]

A busy start to the day as we explore two of Osaka's famous buildings this morning; the iconic Osaka Castle, and the Umeda Sky Building, with its futuristic architecture.

We make our way in the afternoon to the city of Kitakyushu, the gateway to Kyushu island, Japan's 4th largest island and an off-the-beaten track destination.

We spend the late afternoon and early evening in Mojiko Retro, a beautiful port area featuring several well-preserved historic buildings from past eras.

Our day finishes with dinner at Riverwalk shopping centre in Kokura, the centre of Kitakyushu. The architecture is amazing to see, and the best example of its kind in Japan.

Accom: Kitakyushu
Meals: B



Mojiko Retro

Mojiko Retro

Dotonbori

Dotonbori

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle

Mojiko Retro

Mojiko Retro

Day 3 – DAZAIFU, FUKUOKA – [Tue 29th Oct]

A morning visit to Dazaifu, a historic city that served as the administrative centre of Kyushu for over 500 years. The highlights here are Tenmangu Shrine, and the stunning zen garden at Komyozenji Temple.

In the afternoon we make our way to southern Fukuoka, where West Japan Railway Company are providing our tour group with an exclusive tour of a shinkansen (bullet train) rail depot.

In the evening we return to central Fukuoka and explore the Canal City shopping centre, the vibrant Tenjin district, and sample to delicious street food on offer at Hakata yatai stalls.

Accom: Kitakyushu
Meals: B



Kokura Castle and Riverwalk

Kokura Castle and Riverwalk


Day 4 – KITAKYUSHU – [Wed 30th Oct]

Our first full day in Kitakyushu, the gateway to Kyushu, and we have some amazing sights today.

Our morning is spent around Kokura Castle Japanese Garden, a small and peaceful spot just a short walk from the castle.

For lunch we'll visit Tanga Market, boasting over 100 years of history and considered "Kitakyushu's Kitchen". Here you can visit a kaku-uchi store – a unique combination of bar and liquor shop, and sample some of the amazing sake (Japanese rice wine) on offer.

After lunch we visit the Hiraodai Karst Plateau, one of the three largest karst deposits in Japan and a designated natural monument. The grassy landscape is dotted with hundreds of rocks and is an otherworldly landscape.

We also explore Senbutsu Cave with its flowing underground river - this amazing cave needs to be explored using water shoes (provided) as we wind our way through the limestone passageways.

From late afternoon, we head to Takatoyama Park to watch and capture the stunning sunset. Our day finishes with a night photography shoot of our first kojo yakei or factory night view, for which Kitakyushu is famous nationwide for.

Accom: Kitakyushu
Meals: B

West Japan Railway Company - Shinkansen railyard tour

Image: West Japan Railway Company

West Japan Railway Company

Hiraodai Karst Plateau

Hiraodai Karst Plateau

Senbutsu Cave

Senbutsu Cave

Day 5 – KITAKYUSHU – [Thu 31st Oct]

Kitakyushu is famous as an industrial city and we'll be spending the morning exploring a famous company that has its headquarters here: TOTO, one of the world's largest toilet manufacturers and inventor of the iconic WASHLETTM toilet.

After lunch, we visit the Kitakyushu Municipal Museum of Art, designed by world-renowned architect Isozaki Arata with its unique exterior resembling a pair of binoculars. KMMA features both Japanese and Western artworks, including wood block prints by Hokusai and Utagawa as well as works by western artists Bonnard, Bourdelle, Degas, Monet, Renoir and Rodin.

For sunset, we visit Mount Sarakurayama with its stunning night view over Kitakyushu. This is one of Japan's top 3 night views!

Our day concludes with a night photography session at another factory night view location.

Accom: Kitakyushu
Meals: B


Toto Museum


TOTO Museum

Sarakurayama night view

Sarakurayama night view

Day 6 – DAZAIFU, KARATSU – [Fri 1st Nov]

We revisit Dazaifu this morning to learn more about Kyushu's history at Kyushu National Museum, the newest of Japan's three national museums, featuring stunning architecture, and amazing wealth of exhibits inside.

In the evening we make our way to Karatsu to enjoy one of Japan's top 3 float festivals, the Karatsu Kunchi Matsuri. Featuring beautiful intricate floats known as hikiyama, these are illuminated at night and paraded at night for only one night during the year.

Accom: Fukuoka
Meals: B



Day 7 – NAGASAKI – [Sat 2nd Nov]

We move to Nagasaki today, an important port city better known as the second city after Hiroshima to be destroyed by an atomic bomb.

We visit several sights related to the atomic bomb today, including the Peace Park with its sobering Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, and nearby Urakami Cathedral, destroyed by the atomic bomb but rebuilt.

During the evening we visit Mount Inasayama to photograph its amazing night view of Nagasaki. Like Mount Sarakurayama in Kitakyushu, this is another one of Japan's top 3 night views - and we are able to see two of them on this tour!

Accom: Nagasaki
Meals: B


Mount Inasayama night view

Factory night view


Karatsu Kunchi Festival

Karatsu Kunchi Festival

Day 8 – NAGASAKI – [Sun 3rd Nov]

This morning we visit the famous island of Hashima, nicknamed "Battleship Island" (Gunkanjima), due to its resemblance to a warship. Hashima was once the site of a coal mine operated by Mitsubishi, and at its peak was the most densely populated place in the world. Once the coal ran out, the island was abandoned, with the buildings left to decay. We are able to visit part of this incredible island and see it up close.

We return to Nagasaki in the afternoon to visit more of its picturesque attractions, including Sofukuji temple, unique for it's Chinese-inspired architecture; Dejima, a port area formerly used by Dutch traders in the 17th century; and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, the oldest Chinatown in Japan.

In the evening we make our way south to Kagoshima.

Accom: Kagoshima
Meals: B



Day 9 – YAKUSHIMA – [Wed 6th Nov]

An early morning start as we make our way today by jetfoil ferry to Yakushima, a subtropical island off the coast of Kagoshima in Kyushu's south.

Yakushima is one of Japan's natural wonders and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has an extensive ancient cedar forest that contains some of Japan's oldest trees. Some of these yakusugi (Yakushima Cedar) are over 7000 years old!

For our first day in Yakushima we'll be visiting some of the island's waterfalls and finishing our day at Yakusugi Land, where there are a number of 1000+ year old cedar trees.

Accom: Yakushima
Meals: B



Day 10 – YAKUSHIMA – [Thu 7th Nov]

A full day exploring the incredible Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine. This amazingly photogenic place features a lush, mossy forest that served as an inspiration for the forest in the animated film Princess Mononoke.

Several of Yakushima's ancient cedar trees are also located in Shiratani Unsuikyo. In the afternoon, we return by jetfoil ferry to Kagoshima.

Accom: Kagoshima
Meals: B

Gunkanjima


Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine

Shiratani Unsuikyo, Yakushima, Japan

Day 11 – KAGOSHIMA, KUMAMOTO – [Fri 8th Nov]

An optional early morning look at Mount Sakurajima, the active volcano that is right on the doorstep of Kagoshima.

We make our way north to Kumamoto, where we have private transport to the beautiful Kikuchi Valley (Kikuchi Keikoku), located in Aso Kuju National Park. The Kikuchi Valley is renowned as one of Japan's 44 "Forest Bathing" sites and is particularly scenic during autumn.

In the afternoon, we visit Kurokawa Onsen, one of Japan's most famous and most attractive onsen towns. Take the opportunity to do a Rotemburo Meguri ("tour of outdoor baths") before we make our way to Aso.

Accom: Aso
Meals: B


Kurokawa Onsen



Day 12 – MOUNT ASO, TAKACHIHO – [Sat 9th Nov]

Mount Aso is the largest active volcano in Japan and its ancient caldera is among the world's largest, with a diameter of up to 25km. With good conditions, we'll be able to visit the crater of Mount Nakadake, one of the active volcanic peaks.

Our next location Takachiho, a quiet mountain town with the stunning Takachiho Gorge as its highlight. Outside of Takachiho, the Amano Iwato Shrine is the site of a one of a famous legend in Japanese mythology, with Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess hiding herself away in a cave, now known as Amano Yasukawara.

We finish our time in the Kyushu countryside and return to Kitakyushu in the evening.

Accom: Kitakyushu
Meals: B

Kikuchi Valley


Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge

Amano Iwato Shrine

Amano Iwato Shrine

Day 13 – KYOTO – [Sun 10th Nov]

We say goodbye to Kitakyushu this morning and head north to the cultural capital of Japan, Kyoto.

In the afternoon, there's free time to explore downtown Kyoto.

In the evening, we make our way to Arashiyama to view a spectacular nightime autumn illumination event at Hogonin Temple.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B

Maiko walking in downtown Kyoto

Maiko (舞妓) walking in Gion (祇園)

Hogonin

Hogonin

Day 14 – KYOTO – [Mon 11th Nov]

A full morning and lunchtime free for you to explore Kyoto on your own. Take the opportunity to visit the iconic golden Kinkakuji Temple, and nearby Ryoanji Temple, home to Japan's most famous rock garden.

In the afternoon, we visit Komyoin Temple, one of Kyoto's lesser known temples featuring a beautiful zen garden and the perfect place to sit and contemplate. From sunset, we head to Ishibei Koji, easily the prettiest street in Kyoto.

In the evening, we have our farewell dinner, and share our memories of the past two weeks in Japan.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B



Day 15 – KYOTO – [Mon 11th Nov]

The end of our tour and after checkout we will assist you with transport advice to the airport for your flight home or your continuing travel in Japan.

Accom: N/A
Meals: B

Kinkakuji (金閣寺)

Kinkakuji (金閣寺)

Komyoin

Komyoin

May 22, 2018/by Julius Pang
https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png 0 0 Julius Pang https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png Julius Pang2018-05-22 05:11:212019-08-31 19:46:27Kyushu Japan Tour

Hokkaido Winter Tour (Reverse)

  • Steller's Sea Eagles
  • Whooper swans at Lake Kussharo
  • Hakodate night view
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Hokkaido Winter Tour (Reverse)

Snow Festivals, Landscapes & Wildlife

10-24 Feb. 2018


15 days | EARLY BIRD PRICING – AU$7695* pp | Bookings closed. Contact us about 2019 tours.


Tour also available Tokyo ➔ Sapporo (27 Jan-10 Feb)


Intro

Experience a winter wonderland in Japan!

From the world famous Sapporo Snow Festival, to unique wildlife including cheeky snow monkeys, elegant tancho cranes, the world’s largest eagles, and snow-covered landscapes, winter is an amazing time to experience Japan. Join us on our incredible 15-day Hokkaido Winter Tour, where you will experience these amazing winter highlights of Japan!

Led by Julius Pang, a Japan expert and multi-award-winning travel photographer, you’ll learn how to take better travel photos and visit the best spots in Hokkaido to take amazing photos of the winter landscapes and wildlife.

Starting in Sapporo with the Sapporo Snow Festival, visitors from all over the world come here to see the amazing grand snow and ice sculptures in the centre of Sapporo.

Highlights of this tour include the world-famous snow monkeys of Nagano, the most northern and coldest climate living monkey species in the world. The beautiful town of Biei, famed for its beautiful rolling landscapes and trees. The stunning night view of Hakodate.

Over in eastern Hokkaido, you’ll experience some of the most amazing winter wildlife in the world up close. In Kushiro, Japan’s national bird, the tancho cranes come every day to feed and are the picture of elegance as fly and dance. The town of Rausu is known as the eagle capital of the world with the winter migration of hundreds of Steller’s Sea Eagles and White Tail Eagles. There is also the Blakiston’s Fish Owl here, the world’s largest owl and an endangered species.

Our tour ends in Tokyo, Japan’s amazing capital and the world’s largest metropolis.

This is the tour that shows you the postcard shots, the nature, and the secret hot spots of winter Japan. Book now – all you need is your camera and passport!

Highlights

This tour provides a wealth of incredible photography opportunities and unlike any other during Japan’s autumn season. We visit a selection of incredibly photogenic sights where you’ll learn how to improve your photography and create the images you’ve always wanted to.

Our highlights include:

  • Tokyo Skytree – Asia’s tallest building at 634m with spectacular views over Tokyo.
  • Snow Monkeys – the Japanese macaques of Nagano prefecture are the world’s most northern-living monkeys and even have their own hot spring to enjoy!
  • Hakodate – port city in southern Hokkaido and featuring one of the best night views in Japan.
  • Biei – arguably the most photogenic town in Japan. Famed for its rolling hills and trees all year round.
  • Shirohige Falls – a stunning waterfall that drops into the Biei River, lined with snow-covered trees along its banks.
  • Tancho cranes – the national bird of Japan, these elegant cranes are endangered and live in eastern Hokkaido where they have protected breeding and feeding grounds.
  • Steller’s Sea Eagles – the world’s largest eagle, these birds flock to Rausu every winter as part of their migration.
  • White Tailed Eagles – another enormous eagle and they come to Rausu every winter together with the Steller’s Sea Eagles.
  • Blakiston’s Fish Owl – this is the world’s largest owl and critically endangered, with a regular viewing spot available only in Rausu.
  • Ezo Deer – native to Hokkaido, they forage for food over ice and snow during winter
  • Photographic training and personalised feedback from Julius Pang, a multi award winning photographer and Japan travel expert.
  • Great food and optional activities!
Inclusions

Hokkaido Winter Tour includes:

  • 15 nights accommodation (3-star hotels)
  • 15 breakfasts, 2 dinners
  • All local land transport (train, bus, private car, taxi – except airport transfers)
  • 7-day Japan Rail Pass
  • Photography tuition over entire tour
  • Entry fees and activities as listed in itinerary
  • 2 luggage transfers

Tour does not include:

  • International airfares
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals and food not listed in itinerary
  • Additional local transport and entry fees outside of itinerary. If you are flying out of Sapporo, you will need to organise a flight from Tokyo to Sapporo at the end of the tour. Please contact us for advice regarding this.
  • Portable wifi internet access (available through our partners Japan Wifi Rental Service)
  • Beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
  • Personal spending money
  • Tips & gratuities (not routinely expected in Japan)
Dates & Prices

10th – 24th February 2018

SPECIAL PRICING – $7695* pp

Limited places available for this Japan winter photography tour!

BOOK NOW

* All prices shown are based per person in Australian dollars and include all taxes, gratuities, land transport, and some meals as indicated. Accommodation provided is based on twin share. Single supplement available at additional cost of $1295. Airfares are not included and must be organised separately. Prices and itineraries at time of publishing but are subject to change. Payments online using Paypal attract a 3.6% service charge. No service charge applicable for direct deposit payments. International telegraphic transfer payments will incur send and receive charges. Please call or email us for more details. View our full terms & conditions here.

BOOK NOW


QUICK DETAILS


Start: Sapporo, 10 Feb. 2018
End: Tokyo, 24 Feb. 2018

Places visited: Tokyo, Nagano, Hakodate, Sapporo, Asahikawa, Biei, Kushiro, Lake Kussharo, Rausu.

Transport: Bullet train, regular train, plane, private minivan, public bus, taxi.

Accommodation: 3-star hotels.

Extra days: Pre and post-tour accommodation available. Book here.

Type of tour: Small group photography tour
Group size: Min 3, Max 8
Fitness level: Moderate (please refer to FAQ)

Price: AU$7695 pp (twin share double room) – Early bird pricing until 10 September 2017!
(single supplement AU$1295)


ITINERARY

Day 1 – SAPPORO – [Sat 10th Feb]

Arrive at Sapporo Shin-Chitose Airport and make your way to our accommodation.

A welcome dinner will be held and we’ll discuss the photography and activities we will undertake in Sapporo over the next two days.

Accom: Sapporo
Meals: D



Day 2 – SAPPORO – [Sun 11th Feb]

A whole day exploring Sapporo during the largest winter festival in Japan – the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival! Featuring enormous snow sculptures all along Odori Park, ice sculptures in the Susukino entertainment district, and lots of delicious local festival food on offer.

Visit the Sapporo Beer Museum, and learn about the history of beer in Japan, followed by a cheap beer tasting! Or try a Hokkaido specialty, Genghis Khan Barbeque – a delicious lamb barbeque served with lots of vegetables that goes perfectly with beer!

In the afternoon, we visit the Okuriyama Ski Jump, used in the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics, and a beautiful vantage point overlooking Sapporo City.

In the evening, we make our way to the small port city of Otaru in the evening for their Snow Light Path Festival. During this festival, Otaru becomes decorated with lights and small snow sculptures, leading the way to the Otaru Canal, a historic and beautifully preserved part of the city.

Accom: Sapporo
Meals: B


Okurayama Viewpoint, Sapporo

Okurayama Viewpoint, Sapporo

Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival

Day 3 – SAPPORO, ASAHIKAWA – [Mon 12th Feb]

A final morning in Sapporo to explore the Sapporo Snow Festival before heading into Asahikawa for the final day of the Asahikawa Winter Festival, featuring one of the world’s largest snow sculptures as the centrepiece.

Accom: Asahikawa
Meals: B

Asahikawa Snow Festival

Day 4 – BIEI, KUSHIRO – [Tue 13th Feb]

We make our way to eastern Hokkaido to Kushiro, which will be our base for the next couple of days as we photograph the iconic tancho cranes (red crowned cranes), the national bird of Japan. This species is amongst the rarest cranes in the world and Kushiro is home to a resident population and breeding program for these beautiful birds.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Akan International Crane Center feeding ground for our first experience seeing the tancho cranes.

Accom: Kushiro
Meals: B


Tancho crane

Tancho crane

Akan International Crane Center

Tancho cranes at Akan International Crane Center

Day 5 – KUSHIRO – [Wed 14th Feb]

We spend all day today photographing the wonderful tancho cranes. A pre-dawn start as we head out to the famed Otowa Bridge from where we can see a resting spot for the cranes. During very cold weather, mist forms over the river creating a beautifully atmospheric scene as cranes fly in and dance about in the distance.

After some rest back at our hotel and lunch, we head north to Lake Kusharro and its resident population of whooper swans. The lake freezes over during winter except near the edge of the lake due to the persence of hot springs.

Accom: Kushiro
Meals: B


Tancho cranes at the Otowa Bridge

Otowa Bridge

Whooper swans, Lake Kussharo

Whooper swans at Lake Kussharo

Whooper swans

Whooper swans at Lake Kussharo

Day 6 – RAUSU – [Thu 15th Feb]

We say goodbye to the tancho cranes this morning as as make our way further east. During winter, 2000-odd Steller’s sea eagles – almost a third of the species’ population – migrate to Hokkaido, with most ending up around Rausu. Steller’s sea eagles are the largest species of eagle in the world, with a wingspan of up to 2m and weighing up to 9kg. Joining the Steller’s sea eagles are just as many white-tailed eagles, also amongst the largest eagle species.

In the evening, we visit a special viewing spot for a chance to see the endangered Blakiston’s fish owl, the largest owl species in the world.

Accom: Rausu
Meals: B


Blakiston’s fish owl

Blakiston's fish owl

Steller’s Sea Eagle

Steller's Sea Eagle

Day 7 – RAUSU – [Fri 16th Feb]

A very special morning on this tour as we board a special morning boat cruise amongst the drift ice off Rausu port to photograph the sea eagles.

In the afternoon we’ll make our way to the Notsuke Peninsula to photograph some of the strangely withered trees of this area, and the chance to see Ezo deer.

We also have the option to return to Rausu for another night session of photographing the Blakiston’s fish owl.

Accom: Rausu
Meals: B

Ezo deer

Ezo deer

Lake Kussharo

Steller's Sea Eagles fighting at Lake Furen

Day 8 – ASAHIKAWA – [Sat 17th Feb]

We head back towards central Hokkaido today and return to Biei. We explore more of the amazing winter landscapes around Biei, including Shirohige Falls, a beautiful waterfall that falls into the Biei River with its snow-covered trees along its banks.

Accom: Asahikawa
Meals: B


Shirohige Falls

Shirohige Falls

Biei River

Biei River near Shirohige Falls

Day 9 – BIEI – [Sun 18th Feb]

A full day of exploring picturesque Biei today. The beautiful trees and rolling hills of the area have features in numerous Japanese commercials over the years, and during winter they draw photographers from all over Japan and overseas looking to capture minimalist landscapes.

Accom: Biei
Meals: B

Christmas Tree, Biei

Christmas Tree, Biei

Day 10 – HAKODATE – [Mon 19th Feb]

We make our way to the port city of Hakodate located in southern Hokkaido. Hakodate was one of Japan’s first port cities that was open to international trade and has had significant foreign influence, with several well-preserved heritage buildings in the Motomachi district.

In the evening we make our way up to the Hakodate Ropeway to see one of the most stunning night views in all of Japan.

Accom: Hakodate
Meals: B

Hakodate night view

Hakodate night view

Day 12 – HAKODATE, NAGANO – [Tue 20th Feb]

We leave Hokkaido this morning with a ride on the Hokkaido Shinkansen, Japan’s newest and fastest bullet train. We pass through the Seikan Tunnel which connects Honshu island with Hokkaido island. Watch the beautiful snowy landscapes as we speed by at up to 320kph towards Tokyo.

After a short break in Tokyo, we head to Nagano prefecture, home to the world-famous snow monkeys.

Accom: Nagano
Meals: B


Hokkaido Shinkansen

Hokkaido Shinkansen

Baby snow monkey

Baby snow monkey

Day 12 – SNOW MONKEY PARK – [Wed 21st Feb]

An early morning start to visit the Snow Monkey Park in the Yudanaka Onsen area. Watch as the famous snow monkeys frolic and relax in their own hot spring!

In the afternoon we head to Matsumoto to visit the stunning Matsumoto Castle, one of only 12 original castles in Japan, and ranked among the best.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B


Snow monkeys

Snow monkeys

Matsumoto Castle

Day 13 – TOKYO – [Thu 22nd Feb]

Our first day in Tokyo begins with a visit to vibrant Harajuku, famous for its crazy fashion and youthful vibe, and the spacious and peaceful grounds of Meiji Shrine.

The middle of the day is free time. In the evening we visit Shibuya, home to the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B



Day 14 – TOKYO – [Fri 23rd Feb]

An action-packed day exploring several of Tokyo’s most famous sights. We start off with a morning visit to Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most important and popular temples. Next is Tsukiji Market, the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. You can choose to have a delicious and amazing fresh sushi lunch after the visit.

We finish off our day with a visit to Tokyo Skytree, the second-tallest structure in the world and tallest in Asia at 634m! There are amazing views to be had and fantastic opportunities to capture the Tokyo cityscape literally beneath you.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B



Day 15 – TOKYO – [Sat 24th Feb]

The end of our tour and after checkout we will assist you with transfers to the airport for your flight home or continue with your travels in Japan.

Accom: N/A
Meals: B

Meijijingu Shrine

Meiji Jingu (明治神宮)

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Station and Shibuya Crossing

Night view from Tokyo Skytree

Hokkaido Shinkansen
Tancho crane
Shirohige Falls
Tancho cranes at Akan International Crane Center
Otowa Bridge
Biei River near Shirohige Falls, Hokkaido.
Hakodate night view
Blakiston's fish owl
Kushiro landscape
Baby snow monkey
Snow monkeys
Steller's Sea Eagles fighting at Lake Furen
Ezo deer
Steller's Sea Eagles
Shibuya Station and Shibuya Crossing
Matsumoto Castle
Nakamisedori (仲見世通り) and the Kaminarimon Gate (雷門) at Sensoji Temple (浅草寺)
Asahikawa Winter Festival (旭川冬まつり)
Biei
Whooper swans at Lake Kussharo
Whooper swans at Lake Kussharo

August 19, 2017/by Julius Pang
https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png 0 0 Julius Pang https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png Julius Pang2017-08-19 20:28:192018-01-06 01:18:53Hokkaido Winter Tour (Reverse)

Hokkaido Winter Tour

  • Steller's Sea Eagles
  • Whooper swans at Lake Kussharo
  • Hakodate night view
PreviousNext
12345

Hokkaido Winter Tour

22 Jan. – 6 Feb. 2020


16 days | EARLY BIRD PRICE $8650pp | 3 places left – BOOK NOW


Intro

Experience a winter wonderland in Japan!

From the world famous Sapporo Snow Festival, to unique wildlife including cheeky snow monkeys, elegant tancho cranes, the world’s largest eagles, and snow-covered landscapes, winter is an amazing time to experience Japan. Join us on our incredible 16-day Hokkaido Winter Tour, where you will experience these amazing winter highlights of Japan!

Led by Julius Pang, a Japan expert and multi-award-winning travel photographer, you’ll learn how to take better travel photos and visit the best spots in Hokkaido to take amazing photos of the winter landscapes and wildlife.

Starting in Tokyo, Japan’s amazing capital and the world’s largest metropolis, we make our way north to Hokkaido.

Highlights include the world-famous snow monkeys of Nagano, the most northern and coldest climate living monkey species in the world. The beautiful town of Biei, famed for its beautiful rolling landscapes and trees. The stunning night view of Hakodate.

Over in eastern Hokkaido, you’ll experience some of the most amazing winter wildlife in the world up close. In Tsurui, Japan’s national bird, the tancho cranes come every day to feed and are the picture of elegance as fly and dance. The town of Rausu is known as the eagle capital of the world with the winter migration of hundreds of Steller’s Sea Eagles and White Tail Eagles. There is also the Blakiston’s Fish Owl here, the world’s largest owl and critically endangered.

Our tour ends in Sapporo during the Sapporo Snow Festival. This is one of the world’s most famous winter festivals and draws visitors from all over the world to see amazing grand snow and ice sculptures in the centre of Sapporo.

This is the tour that shows you the postcard shots, the nature, and the secret hot spots of winter Japan. Book now – all you need is your camera and passport!

Highlights

This tour provides a wealth of incredible photography opportunities and unlike any other during Japan’s autumn season. We visit a selection of incredibly photogenic sights where you’ll learn how to improve your photography and create the images you’ve always wanted to.

Our highlights include:

  • Tokyo Skytree – Asia’s tallest building at 634m with spectacular views over Tokyo.
  • Snow Monkeys – the Japanese macaques of Nagano prefecture are the world’s most northern-living monkeys and even have their own hot spring to enjoy!
  • Hakodate – port city in southern Hokkaido and featuring one of the best night views in Japan.
  • Biei – arguably the most photogenic town in Japan. Famed for its rolling hills and trees all year round.
  • Shirohige Falls – a stunning waterfall that drops into the Biei River, lined with snow-covered trees along its banks.
  • Tancho cranes – the national bird of Japan, these elegant cranes are endangered and live in eastern Hokkaido where they have protected breeding and feeding grounds.
  • Steller’s Sea Eagles – the world’s largest eagle, these birds flock to Rausu every winter as part of their migration.
  • White Tailed Eagles – another enormous eagle and they come to Rausu every winter together with the Steller’s Sea Eagles.
  • Blakiston’s Fish Owl – this is the world’s largest owl and critically endangered, with a regular viewing spot available only in Rausu.
  • Whooper Swans – this beautiful white swan can be seen around scenic Lake Kussharo, known for its hot spring sources at the water’s edge.
  • Ezo Deer – native to Hokkaido, they forage for food over ice and snow during winter, particularly around the Notsuke Peninsula.
  • Photographic training and personalised feedback from Julius Pang, a multi award winning photographer and Japan travel expert.
  • Great food and optional activities!
Inclusions

Hokkaido Winter Tour includes:

  • 15 nights accommodation (incl. 1 night in ryokan)
  • 15 breakfasts, 2 dinners
  • All local land transport (train, bus, private car, taxi – except airport transfers)
  • 7-day Japan Rail Pass
  • Photography tuition over entire tour
  • Entry fees and cultural activities as listed in itinerary

Tour does not include:

  • International airfares
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals and food not listed in itinerary
  • Additional local transport and entry fees outside of itinerary. If you are flying out of Tokyo, you will need to organise a flight from Sapporo to Tokyo at the end of the tour. Please contact us for advice regarding this.
  • Portable wifi internet access (available through our partners Japan Wifi Rental Service)
  • Beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
  • Personal spending money
  • Tips & gratuities (not routinely expected in Japan)
Dates & Prices

22 January – 6 February 2020

EARLY BIRD PRICING – $8650* pp

Limited places available for this Japan winter photography tour!

BOOK NOW

* All prices shown are based per person in Australian dollars and include all taxes, gratuities, land transport, and some meals as indicated. Accommodation provided is based on twin share. Single supplement available at additional cost of $1395. Airfares are not included and must be organised separately. Prices and itineraries at time of publishing but are subject to change. Payments online using Paypal attract a 3.6% service charge. No service charge applicable for direct deposit payments. International telegraphic transfer payments will incur send and receive charges. Please call or email us for more details. View our full terms & conditions here.

Bookings

2020 Hokkaido Winter Tour – Booking

To book your place on the 2020 Hokkaido Winter Tour, you’ll need to complete a Booking Form and make a deposit*. We accept payments via direct deposit, Paypal or a credit card (through Paypal).

Click to download booking form

ONLINE PAYMENT


Choose Payment Option:



NB: Deposit payment by Paypal includes 3.6% service charge.


DIRECT DEPOSIT PAYMENT
For direct deposits, please transfer payment to the following bank account and email the transaction record to admin@incrediblephototours.com:
Bankwest – Garden City, 125 Riseley Street, Booragoon WA 6154
BSB: 306066
Account number: 2762488
Account name: Incredible Photo Tours


SEND US YOUR BOOKING FORM
Please email the completed booking form to us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will get back in touch with you regarding room preferences.


International Telegraphic Transfers:
If you are making an international telegraphic transfer (TT) into our account, please email us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will provide you with further details so you can proceed with the telegraphic transfer. Any bank fees incurred to accept the telegraphic transfer will be payable by the sender.


* Tour deposit is non-refundable and the balance payment of the tour is to be paid to our bank account via direct deposit or Paypal no later than 45 days of tour departure. Payment details will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your deposit payment and allocation of your place on the tour. Payments made online using Paypal include a 3.6% service charge. There is no service charge using direct deposit. By making a Deposit or Full Payment you agree to our booking terms and conditions.

BOOK NOW


QUICK DETAILS


Start: Tokyo, 22 Jan. 2020 (Wed)
End: Sapporo, 6 Feb. 2020 (Thu)

Places visited: Tokyo, Nagano, Hakodate, Sapporo, Obihiro, Biei, Kushiro, Lake Kussharo, Rausu, Notsuke Peninsula.

Transport: Bullet train, regular train, private minivan, public bus, taxi.

Accommodation: 3-4 star hotels, ryokan.

Extra days: Pre and post-tour accommodation available. Book here.

Type of tour: Small group photography tour
Group size: Min 3, Max 6
Fitness level: Moderate (please refer to FAQ)

Price: AU$8650 pp (twin share) – early bird pricing
(single supplement AU$1395)


ITINERARY

Day 1 – TOKYO | 22 Jan. 2020 (Wed)

Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport and make your way to our accommodation. Early arrivers can join our optional tour to Odaiba Bay, home to the some fantastic architecture, including the iconic Fuji TV Building, and the the amazing digital art experiences at the TeamLab Borderless Digital Art Museum.

A welcome dinner will be held and we’ll discuss the photography and activities we will undertake in Tokyo over the next two days.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: D



Day 2 – TOKYO | 23 Jan. 2020 (Thu)

An action-packed day first exploring several of Tokyo’s most famous sights. First stop is Tokyo International Forum, a beautiful bit of architecture in the heart of Tokyo.

After lunch we head to vibrant Harajuku, famous for its crazy fashion and youthful vibe. In the evening we visit Shibuya, home to the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing.

We finish off our day with a visit to Tokyo Skytree, the second-tallest structure in the world and tallest in Asia at 634m! There are amazing views to be had and fantastic opportunities to capture the Tokyo cityscape literally beneath you.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B


Night view from Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo International Forum

Tokyo International Forum

Shibuya Crossing

Shibuya Crossing

Day 3 – TOKYO, MATSUMOTO | 24 Jan. 2020 (Fri)

For our final morning in Tokyo we start off with a morning visit to Sensoji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most important and popular temples. In the afternoon we head to Matsumoto City, home to the stunning Matsumoto Castle, one of only 12 original castles in Japan, and ranked among the best.

Accom: Matsumoto
Meals: B

Matsumoto Castle

Day 4 – SNOW MONKEY PARK | 25 Jan. 2020 (Sat)

We leave Matsumoto in the morning and head to Yudanaka Onsen to visit the Snow Monkey Park. Watch as the famous snow monkeys frolic and relax in their own hot spring! We have a whole day of shooting here before heading to Nagano in the evening.

Accom: Nagano
Meals: B


Snow monkey, Yudanaka Onsen

Snow monkey

Baby snow monkey

Baby snow monkey

Day 5 – HAKODATE | 26 Jan. 2020 (Sun)

We make our way north today to Hakodate on the Hokkaido Shinkansen, Japan’s newest and fastest bullet train. Watch the snow covered landscape as we speed by at up to 320kph towards Aomori city, before passing through the Seikan Tunnel which connects Honshu island with Hokkaido island.

After arriving in Hakodate in the afternoon, we’ll visit the Hakodate Ropeway during sunset, enjoying one of the best night views in Japan.

Accom: Hakodate
Meals: B

Hokkaido Shinkansen

Hokkaido Shinkansen

Hakodate night view

Hakodate night view

Day 6 – ASAHIKAWA, BIEI | 27 Jan. 2020 (Mon)

We take a leisurely train ride in the morning towards Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. We stop for lunch before making our way to Asahikawa.

During the afternoon, we’ll head south of Asahikawa and spend time photographing the snow-covered landscapes around Biei town, one of Japan’s most picturesque locations.

Accom: Asahikawa
Meals: B

Christmas Tree, Biei

Christmas Tree, Biei

Biei

Biei

Day 7 – BIEI | 28 Jan. 2020 (Tue)

A full day of exploring picturesque Biei today. The beautiful trees and rolling hills of the area have been featured in numerous Japanese commercials over the years, and have drawn countless photographers from around Japan and overseas looking for minimalist landscapes.

In the afternoon, we make our way to Shirohige Falls, a beautiful waterfall that flows into the Biei River lined by snow-covered trees along its banks.

Accom: Asahikawa
Meals: B



Day 8 – KUSHIRO | 29 Jan. (Wed)

Our final morning photographing Biei, before making our way to eastern Hokkaido. We finish up in Kushiro, which will be our base for the next couple of days as we photograph the iconic tancho cranes (red crowned cranes), the national bird of Japan.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Akan International Crane Center for our first experience of the tancho cranes.

Accom: Kushiro
Meals: B


Tancho crane

Shirohige Falls

Shirohige Falls

Biei River

Biei River near Shirohige Falls

Tancho cranes

Day 9 – KUSHIRO, LAKE KUSSHARO | 30 Jan. 2020 (Thu)

Today, we’ll spend all morning photographing the wonderful tancho cranes. A pre-dawn start as we head out to the famed Otowa Bridge from where we can see a resting spot for the cranes. During very cold weather, mist forms over the river creating a ethereal scene as cranes fly in and dance about in the distance.

After a rest and lunch back at our hotel, we leave Kushiro head north for a quick visit to Iozan, an active volcano with numerous sulfurous vents that can be seen up close! We then head to Lake Kusharro and its resident population of whooper swans.

Accom: Kushiro
Meals: B

Whooper swans

Whooper swans at Lake Kussharo

Otowa Bridge

Tancho cranes at Otowa Bridge

Day 10 – NOTSUKE PENINSULA | 31 Jan. 2020 (Fri)

A final morning shoot of the tancho cranes at Otowa Bridge before we head towards Rausu.

On the way, we visit the Tsurui Ito Tancho Sanctuary for another session photographing the tancho cranes. We then depart Tsurui and visit the Notsuke Peninsula, home to many bird species and the Ezo Deer. The landscape around here also includes many interesting withered trees.

We finish up in the fishing town of Rausu, located on the Shiretoko Peninsula and renowned as the eagle capital of the world.

In the evening, we visit a special viewing spot in Rausu for a chance to see the rare Blakiston’s fish owl, the largest owl species in the world.

Accom: Rausu
Meals: B


Ezo deer

Ezo deer

Ezo deer

Ezo deer

Blakiston’s Fish Owl

Blakiston's fish owl

Day 11 – RAUSU | 1 Feb. 2020 (Sat)

A very special morning on this tour as we board a special morning boat cruise amongst the drift ice off Rausu port to photograph sea eagles.

During winter, around 2000 Steller’s sea eagles – almost a third of the species’ population – migrate to Hokkaido, with most ending up around Rausu. Steller’s sea eagles are the largest species of eagle in the world, with a wingspan of up to 2m and weighing up to 9kg. Joining the Steller’s sea eagles are just as many white-tailed eagles, also amongst the largest eagle species.

In the evening, we’ll have another session photographing the Blakiston’s Fish Owl.

Accom: Rausu
Meals: B

Steller’s Sea Eagle

Steller's Sea Eagle

Lake Kussharo

Steller's Sea Eagles fighting at Lake Furen

Day 12 – RAUSU, OBIHIRO | 2 Feb. 2020 (Sun)

A final morning cruise to photograph the sea eagles off Rausu Port.

We depart Rausu later in the morning and head back into central Hokkaido to Obihiro. This city is right next to the famous Tokachigawa Onsen area, home to rare moor hot springs.

In the evening we visit the beautiful Sairinka Festival, one of Hokkaido’s best small winter festivals.

Accom: Obihiro
Meals: B



Day 13 – OBIHIRO | 3 Feb. 2020 (Mon)

An early morning start as we explore the Tokachi area and visit a beautiful location for some sunrise photography.

Returning to Obihiro, we’ll enjoy some time watching Banei Horse Racing, the only horse races in the world featuring enormous draught horses.

Accom: Obihiro
Meals: B


Banei Racing

Banei Racing


Day 14 – OBIHIRO, SAPPORO | 4 Feb. 2020 (Tue)

A free morning to relax at one of Obihiro’s hot springs. The hot springs in this region are rare moor hot springs, and your skin will feel silky smooth after a good soak!

We leave Obihiro in the afternoon for Sapporo where the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival will be in full swing. Check out the ice sculptures as they glitter under the bright lights of the Susukino entertainment district.

Accom: Sapporo
Meals: B, D

Tokachigawa Swan Festival Sairinka

Tokachigawa Swan Festival Sairinka

The Sunrise Tree

The Sunrise Tree

Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival

Day 15 – SAPPORO | 5 Feb. 2020 (Wed)

A whole day exploring Sapporo during the largest winter festival in Japan – the world-famous Sapporo Snow Festival! Featuring enormous snow sculptures all along Odori Park, ice sculptures in the Susukino entertainment district, and lots of delicious local festival food on offer.

The afternoon and evening is free for you to explore. Take the opportunity to visit the Okuriyama Ski Jump, used in the 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympics, and a beautiful vantage point overlooking Sapporo City.

Or try the Sapporo Beer Museum and learn about the history of beer in Japan, followed by a cheap beer tasting! There’s also the cable car to Mount Moiwa, where you can see a beautiful night view of Sapporo, one of the best in Japan.

We meet up later in the evening for our farewell dinner to enjoy a Genghis Khan Barbeque – a delicious lamb barbeque served with lots of vegetables that goes perfectly with beer!

Accom: Sapporo
Meals: B



Day 16 – SAPPORO | 6 Feb. 2020 (Thu)

The end of our tour and after checkout we will assist you with transfers to the airport for your flight home or continue with your travels in Japan.**

Accom: N/A
Meals: B

** Contact us regarding discount flight options from Sapporo to Tokyo.

Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Snow Festival
August 19, 2017/by Julius Pang
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Testimonials – Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour

Testimonials – Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour

Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour 2016

I consider that when I “Googled” “photo tours in Japan” it was one of my luckiest days as it gave me the details for one of the best tours I have ever heard about – well, that I could afford at least. Also who wants to take a tour with a foreign based tour company when you can do it with a home grown Australian one who knows exactly what Australians want and like?

The above tour more than filled the bill and had been devised by our Tour “Master”, Julius Pang who turned out to be just as organised as a Japan Railways timetable but with a capacity for flexibility as well. Throw in a cheerful, endlessly patient, unflappable nature and you have the perfect tour leader.

Although the exact bloom time of the Japanese Sakura or Cherry Blossom is totally dependant on the fickle weather, it only lasts for approximately 10 days and so must change from year to year. But somehow Julius managed to begin our tour at the time of partial bloom, extending to full bloom and then the post bloom period as well when the Sakura petals fall to the ground like falling snow. We saw it all and it was magical.

A huge bonus was that Julius only takes tours with a maximum of 8 participants which ensures that there is a minimum of stress for everyone. He always knew where to go at the best possible time to photograph something of wonder and beauty, eg castles, temples, gardens, streets, canals, architecture et al.

I’m sure that his Autumn tour would be just as fascinating and enthralling as the Spring version and we hope to undertake this as well in the not too distant future.

Thank you Julius, we will always be eternally grateful for your good nature and assistance.

Sue & Rob Pursell

Classic Japan Cherry Blossom Tour

Thank you very much for a wonderful tour of Japan. I thoroughly enjoyed all the places you took us to and also the great photo opportunities we had. Japan is an amazing place and it was a great introduction to all that Japan is, the traditions, customs, people, tourist attractions.

Maria Jenkins

June 20, 2016/by Julius Pang
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Accommodation Extension

Accommodation Extension

If you are looking to extend your stay before or after one of our tours, we can bring you the best accommodation deals thanks to our affiliation with Booking.com.

Use the search box below to find the best deals now!

December 26, 2015/by Julius Pang
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Central Japan Cherry Blossom Tour

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Central Japan Cherry Blossom Tour

11–25 April 2020


15 days | $8290 – EARLY BIRD PRICE. SAVE $300! |  8 places left –  BOOK NOW


Intro

Explore Central Japan during cherry blossom season!

Japan is a fascinating country full of incredible contrasts, and well-known for its beauty during the cherry blossom (sakura) season.

In this 15-day Central Japan Cherry Blossom Tour you will get to experience festivals and the cherry blossom season in an incredible photogenic part of the country. We explore a melting pot of traditional festivals, futuristic cities, diverse landscapes, and ancient temples among the sakura.

We start by visiting Mount Yoshino, Japan’s most famous cherry blossom location and enjoy the annual Yoshino spring festival as we make our way up the mountain among all the blossoming cherry trees.

Experience the colourful Takayama Festival, one of Japan’s three most famous festivals. Enjoy the fascinating karakuri puppet performances, and view the incredible beauty of the ornate festival floats (mikoshi) as they are illuminated and paraded around at night.

We also visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawago, a village in the mountainous Hida region, famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.

We explore the hustle and bustle of two of the world’s most energetic and dynamic cities in Osaka and Tokyo, and visit famous areas including Dotonbori, Shibuya, Shinjuku, Harajuku and Ginza.

View the symmetrical beauty of Mt Fuji while setting up the perfect landscape shot at Lake Kawaguchi.

Explore magnificent Kyoto temples and Japan’s two finest original castles, Himeji Castle and Matsumoto Castle. Visit one of the most incredible gardens in the world at Kenrokuen.

See geisha up close and watch the elegance of their traditional art and service.

This is a travel tour unlike any other. If you’ve ever wanted to visit Japan during cherry blossom season, don’t miss out on this tour!

Book now and take advantage of our early bird pricing!

Highlights

This tour provides a wealth of incredible sightseeing opportunities and unlike any other during central Japan’s cherry blossom season.

Our highlights include:

  • Mount Yoshino – Japan’s most famous cherry blossom location for centuries.
  • Takayama Festival – one of Japan’s “three great festivals”. Famous for its amazing karakuri puppet performances and illuminated mikoshi (float) at night.
  • Snow Wall (Yuki-no-Otani) – View a towering wall of snow up to 20m high in the middle of spring.
  • Private geisha lunch and photography session – it’s just our small group with a geisha and interpreter!
  • Tokyo Skytree – Asia’s tallest building at 634m with spectacular views over Tokyo.
  • Tsukiji Fish Market – famous for its tuna auction, and due to move location i 2016. Visit this Tokyo icon while it’s still in Tsukiji!
  • Kenrokuen Garden – one of Japan’s famous “three most beautiful gardens” and arguably the best out of all of them.
  • Fushimi Inari Shrine – famous for the thousands of red torii gates on the mountainside.
  • Visits to several Kyoto World Heritage monuments, including Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), Ginkakuji, Ryoanji, and Nijo Castle.
  • Matsumoto Castle – one of Japan’s premier original castles, together with Himeji Castle and Kumamoto Castle.
  • Himeji Castle – after years of renovations, Japan’s best castle back open and looking better than ever.
  • Todaiji Temple – Nara’s famous landmark is one of the world’s largest wooden building and contains the world’s largest sitting Buddha statue.
  • Professional tour guidance from Julius Pang, a multi award winning photographer and Japan travel expert.
  • Great food and optional activities!
Inclusions

Start:
Kyoto

Finish:
Kyoto

Group size:
Min 2, Max 8

Ages:
18+ yo

Meals:
13 Breakfasts, welcome dinner, private Geisha  lunch, farewell dinner.

Accommodation:
14 nights in 3-star hotels.

Transport:
Shinkansen (bullet train) – 7 Day Japan Rail Pass, local trains, subway, bus, and taxi.

Activities:
Takayama Festival, onsen (hot spring), Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji, Tokyo Skytree, Toyosu Market, Shibuya, Matsumoto Castle, Himeji Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, Ryoanji, Gion walking tour, private geisha lunch, Fushimi Inari Shrine, Mount Yoshino.


Dates & Prices

10 April – 24 April 2017

SPECIAL – $7990* pp

Places still available – Book Now


* All prices shown are based per person twin share in Australian dollars and include all taxes, gratuities, land transport, and some meals. Accommodation provided is based on single rooms or twin room share. Airfares and travel insurance are not included and must be organised separately. Prices and itineraries at time of publishing but are subject to change. Payments online using Paypal attract a 3.6% service charge. No service charge applicable for direct deposit payments. Please call or email us for more details. View our full terms & conditions here.

Bookings

2020 Central Japan Cherry Blossom Tour – Booking

To book your place on the Central Japan Cherry Blossom Tour:

  1. Complete this Booking Form (PDF)
  2. Make a deposit via direct deposit or Paypal (credit card):

PAYPAL PAYMENT:

Choose Payment Option:



*NB: Deposit payment by Paypal includes a 3.6% service charge. Direct deposit payment has no service charge.


DIRECT DEPOSIT:

Please transfer payment to the following bank account and email the transaction record to admin@incrediblephototours.com:
Bankwest – Garden City, 125 Riseley Street, Booragoon WA 6154
BSB: 306066
Account number: 2762488
Account name: Incredible Photo Tours

International clients – we recommend paying via a money transfer service like Transferwise or Hifix for better rates compared to a bank telegraphic transfer. Please contact us for details and assistance.


* Tour deposit is non-refundable and the balance payment of the tour is to be paid to our bank account via direct deposit or Paypal no later than 45 days of tour departure. Payment details will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your deposit payment and allocation of your place on the tour. Full Payment and balance payment online using Paypal includes a 3.6% service charge. There is no service charge using direct deposit. By making a Deposit or Full Payment you agree to our booking terms and conditions.

BOOK NOW


QUICK DETAILS


Start: Kyoto, Sat 11 April 2020
End: Kyoto, Sat 25 April 2020

Places visited: Osaka, Kyoto, Mt Yoshino, Takayama, Shirakawago Village, Kanazawa, Lake Kawaguchiko, Himeji, Tokyo.

Transport: Bullet train, regular train, public bus, taxi

Accommodation: 3-star Hotels

Type of tour: Small group photography tour
Group size: Min 2, Max 8
Fitness level: Moderate (please refer to FAQ)

Price: AUD$8590pp  $8290pp twin share.
Early bird price – save $300!
(single supplement AU$1290)

ITINERARY

Day 1 – KYOTO | 11 April 2020 (Sat)

Arrive at Kansai International Airport and make your way to our accommodation with airport transfer assistance provided. Our hotel is located just 13min by train from central Kyoto. An introductory dinner will be held and we’ll discuss the photography and activities we will undertake in the Kansai region over the next few days.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B, D



Day 2 – KYOTO | 12 April 2020 (Sun)

We start off our first full day in Japan visiting Ninnaji Temple, famous for it’s late-flowering cherry blossoms.

Next are two of Kyoto’s most famous temples today, the gold-covered Kinkakuji, and Ryoanji, featuring Japan’s most famous zen rock garden.

We spend late afternoon and sunset exploring Fushimi Inari Shrine and its thousands of vermillion torii gates snaking up the mountainside.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B



Day 3 – NARA, MOUNT YOSHINO | 13 April 2020 (Mon)

Today we leave Kyoto and head south to Nara prefecture, starting off with a morning visit to Todaiji Temple, one of the world’s largest wooden buildings and home to the largest sitting Buddha statue in the world.

Next up is Mount Yoshino (Yoshinoyama), Japan’s most famous cherry blossom spot. There are thousands of sakura trees planted on Mount Yoshino, creating a beautiful patchwork of pink during sakura season as you look down the mountain.

We visit several temples as we make our way up the mountain and stop at various viewpoints. The hike up is vigorous at times but the reward is a glorious view of the sakura-dotted mountainside. The Yoshino spring festival will also be on and we’ll be able to view a colourful and traditional parade.

Accom: Nagoya
Meals: B



Day 4 – TAKAYAMA | 14 April 2020 (Tue)

We make our way to Takayama to see one of our tour highlights – the famous Takayama Festival, one of Japan’s three great festivals.

The Takayama Festival is famous for its incredibly ornate festival floats and the karakuri puppet performances from the top of these floats. It gets even better at night when the floats are illuminated and paraded around town.

During the day you can even try some of the delicious local Hida beef, just as delicious as its cousin Kobe beef.

Accom: Gero
Meals: B


Mount Yoshino cherry blossoms


Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto

Saihoji, Kyoto


Takayama Festival

Day 5 – KANAZAWA | 15 April 2020 (Wed)

In the afternoon, we make our way north to Kanazawa, often called “Little Kyoto” for its similarities to Japan’s cultural capital. We visit to Kenrokuen, one of the “Three Great Gardens” of Japan, and undoubtedly Kanazawa’s top attraction. We finish our day with an evening visit to the beautiful Higashi Chaya Teahouse District, where Kanazawa’s geisha still work today.

Accom: Kanazawa
Meals: B



Day 6 – SHIRAKAWAGO | 16 April 2020 (Thu)

Today is a day trip to Shirakawago, a village in the mountainous Hida region, and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, which feature steep thatched roofs, designed to shed snow easily in this mountainous region. Some of these farmhouses are over 250 years old!

Accom: Kanazawa
Meals: B


Fushimi Inari Shrine torii gates


Shirakawago Village

Day 7 – KANAZAWA | 17 April 2020 (Fri)

Kanazawa is one of Japan’s best-preserved Edo-period cities. We’ll be visiting Kanazawa Castle, the samurai district and the ingenious “Ninjadera” Temple today.

In the afternoon, we make our way to Lake Kawaguchiko with a dinner stopover in Tokyo.

Accom: Lake Kawaguchiko
Meals: B



Day 8 – LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO | 18 April 2020 (Sat)

Lake Kawaguchiko is part the Fuji Five Lakes area, with beautiful views of Mt Fuji in good weather, and several fantastic cherry blossom locations to enjoy. With clear weather, the cherry blossoms on the lake foreshore perfectly frame Mt Fuji in the background.

Accom: Lake Kawaguchiko
Meals: B


Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa


Cherry blossoms around Lake Kawaguchi

Cherry blossoms, Kawaguchiko

Day 9 – LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO | 19 April 2020 (Sun)

We have an early start this morning to visit the famous Chureito Pagoda and its beautiful view looking out towards Mount Fuji.

The rest of the day is free to explore various places around Lake Kawaguchiko, including Lake Saiko, the eerie Aokigahara Forest, the Kachi Kachi Ropeway, the Ice & Wind Caves, and the Iyashi no Sato Historical Village.

In the evening we make our way to Tokyo.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B



Day 10 – TOKYO | 20 April 2020 (Mon)

We are based in Japan’s incredible capital for the next two days. Tokyo is a sprawling megacity, home to over 38 million people – the largest megacity in the world!

We start with a morning visit to the famous Toyosu Market, the world’s largest wholesale fish market, and have a look at the incredible variety of seafood on sale. This is followed by a super fresh sushi lunch nearby!

After Tsukiji Market, we have free time. Our recommendation is to get some souvenir shopping, for example at electronics mecca of Akihabara, or Kappabashi Street which sells all you’ll ever need for the kitchen. You could also take in some culture by visiting one of the many museums in Ueno.

We finish off our day with a visit to Tokyo Skytree, the second-tallest structure in the world and tallest in Asia at 634m! There are amazing views to be had and fantastic opportunities to capture the Tokyo cityscape literally beneath you.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B


Chureito Pagoda

Chureito Pagoda

Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji


Tokyo Skytree

Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー)

Day 11 – TOKYO | 21 April 2020 (Tue)

The morning is free time and you can spend this visiting the world electronics mecca of Akihabara, or take in some culture by visiting one of the many museums in Ueno.

In the afternoon, we visit Matsumoto and its premier attraction, Matsumoto Castle. This is one of the Japan’s few remaining original castles and is considered one of the premier castles along with Himeji Castle. We’ll be staying here until evening to photograph the castle at sunset and during blue hour, when it looks most beautiful.

After dinner, we make our way north to Toyama via limited express train and shinkansen.

Accom: Toyama
Meals: B



Day 12 – TATEYAMA ALPINE ROUTE | 22 April 2020 (Wed)

Today we make a day trip along the Tateyama Alpine Route to Mount Murodo. This area is notable for its very high snowfall, and during spring the Alpine Route road needs to be cut out from the snow. We visit Yuki-no-otani, the snow wall that lines the Alpine Route, and which reaches heights of up to 14m!

Accom: Toyama
Meals: B

Matsumoto Castle


Yuki-no-otani

Yuki-no-Otani


Day 13 – HIMEJI, OSAKA | 23 April 2020 (Thu)

We visit Japan’s most famous castle today, the majestic Himeji Castle. This is one of the few original castles left in Japan and has undergone a recent restoration, so it looks even better than ever.

In the afternoon, we make our way back to Kyoto, with the rest of the day free time to explore more of the city. In the evening, we’ll make our way to Osaka to see the famous neon-lit restaurant district of Dotonbori, and also enjoy our farewell dinner here.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B



Day 14 – KYOTO | 24 April 2020 (Fri)

We start off early this morning to visit Arashiyama in western Kyoto. There we will explore the famous Sagano bamboo groves and walk around the historic Togetsukyo Bridge area.

We head back to central Kyoto and go to Gion at lunchtime for one of the highlights of our tour – a walking tour of Gion guided by a Kyoto guide, with our special farewell lunch accompanied by a maiko (apprentice geisha/geiko), there to serve and talk with us! Learn more about the world of geiko while enjoying Kyoto cuisine. This is a truly exclusive dinner, it’s just our tour group, our guide/interpreter, and the geiko. And yes, we’ll also be having an amazing photo session with the maiko to finish off our trip!

The afternoon is free time to explore more of Kyoto or catch up on souvenir shopping.

Accom: Kyoto
Meals: B, L



Day 15 – KYOTO | 25 April 2020 (Sat)

The end of our tour and we will assist you with transfers to Kansai Airport for your flight home.

Accom: N/A
Meals: B

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle

Rainy evening around Dotonbori


Maiko Toshisumi

Maiko Toshisumi (とし純)

2014 IPA - 1st Place Night Photography
Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto
Kinkakuji, Kyoto
Sakura
Yasakajinja, Kyoto
Ebisu Bridge, Osaka
Street food, Kyoto
Fushimi Inari
Maiko Toshisumi (とし純)
Toshisumi (とし純)
Sweets vendor, Mt Yoshino
Miyako Odori, Kyoto
Ryoanji, Kyoto
Shibuya Crossing
Todaiji, Nara
Mount Yoshino
Kurobe Gorge
Kurobe Gorge
Yuki-no-Otani
Yuki-no-Otani
Cherry blossoms, Kawaguchiko
Cherry blossoms, Kawaguchiko
Takayama Spring Festival
Gassho-zukkuri houses in Shirakawago
Matsumoto Castle
August 22, 2015/by Julius Pang
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Tohoku Japan Autumn Tour

  • Tsutanuma Pond (蔦沼), Aomori.
  • Wakitsubo Pond (沸壷の池)
  • Naruko Gorge
  • Oirase Stream
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Tohoku Japan Autumn Tour

17th Oct. – 1st Nov. 2020

16 days | $8195* pp – 6 places remaining | BOOK NOW

BOOK NOW

Intro

Experience Northern Japan’s incredible autumn landscapes!

Autumn/fall is one of the most picturesque times in Japan, when maple leaves transition through majestic colours of the sun. The Tohoku region in the country’s north is a spectacular area to view autumn colours. Join us on our incredible 16-day Tohoku Autumn Tour, where you will experience the best this season has to offer – and how to capture the pictures that will reflect memories for a lifetime.

You name it, Japan has it all – traditional culture proudly practiced in modern day, leading futuristic cities, diverse landscapes showcasing spectacular natural wonders, and ancient temples preserving hundreds of years of history.

We visit the famous onsen (hot springs) and surroundings of Mount Zao in the prime of its autumn richness. Nearby Zao, stunning Okama Crater and its lake are easily accessible via a leisurely hike.

Just south of Tohoku is the Nikko region, boasting a diverse range of landscapes showing off the full spectrum of autumn’s variety, including Kegon Falls, Ryuzu Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and the Akechidaira Plateau. Nikko is also home to Toshogu Shrine, where the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate, is located.

Using the cosmopolitan city of Sendai as our base, we explore breathtaking landscapes in Miyagi and Iwate prefectures, including Matsushima Bay (one of Japan’s “Three Great Views”), Geibikei Gorge, and Naruko Gorge (arguably the most spectacular gorge in northern Japan).

One of the unmissable stops on our journey lies in Akita prefecture – the UNESCO World Heritage area of Shirakami Sanchi, an unspoilt mountainous region home to the last remaining virgin beech forests in Japan. You also have the chance to visit a real samurai town, the pristinely preserved Kakunodate, as well as the magnificent Dakigaeri Gorge.

We finish off in Aomori prefecture to appreciate Lake Towada and Oirase Stream, two of the best autumn colour spots in the Tohoku region.

This is the autumn tour full of off-the-beaten track and stunning photographic opportunities. Book now for our early bird special – all you need is your camera and passport!

Highlights

This tour provides a wealth of incredible photography opportunities and unlike any other during Japan’s autumn season. We visit a selection of incredibly photogenic sights where you’ll learn how to improve your photography and create the images you’ve always wanted to.

Our highlights include:

  • Autumn colours at their peak during the season in Tohoku!
  • Oirase Stream – one of Japan’s premier autumn colour locations located next to Lake Towada
  • Chusonji Temple – featuring the amazing gold-leaf covered Konjikido Golden Hall.
  • Matsushima Bay – a beautiful bay full of pine-clad islands and one one of the “Great Views of Japan”
  • Okama Crater – Famous for its onsen (hot springs), traditional ryokan accommodation, and view of Mt Fuji.
  • Goshikinuma – five beautiful coloured lakes of the Bandai region
  • Juniko Lakes – part of the World Heritage site Shirakami Sanchi, with several stunning lakes and ponds.
  • Nikko – home to the stunning Toshogu Shrine and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Naruko Gorge – one of the most scenic gorges in Japan and an amazing autumn foliage spot.
  • Kakunodate – a former samurai town with a beautifully preserved samurai district.
  • Ikeda Family Gardens – one of the most beautiful gardens in the Tohoku Region.
  • Photographic training and personalised feedback from Julius Pang, a multi award winning photographer and Japan travel expert.
  • Great food and optional activities!
Dates & Prices

17 Oct – 1 Nov 2020

$8195 pp*

Limited places available for this Japan – Tohoku Autumn photography tour!

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* All prices shown are based on per person twin share in Australian dollars and include all taxes, gratuities, land transport, and some meals. A single supplement of $1295 applies. Accommodation provided is based on single rooms or double rooms. Airfares are not included and must be organised separately. Prices and itineraries at time of publishing but are subject to change. Payments online using Paypal attract a 3.6% service charge. No service charge applicable for direct deposit payments. Please call or email us for more details. View our full terms & conditions here.

Map

JapanTJAT2017_map

Bookings

2020 Tohoku Japan Autumn Tour – Booking

To book your place on the Tohoku Autumn Tour, you will need to make a $500 deposit* and complete a Booking Form.

  • Click here to download Booking Form

We accept payment via direct deposit, Paypal or a credit card.

Choose Payment Option:


For direct deposits, please transfer payment to the following bank account and email the transaction record to admin@incrediblephototours.com:
Bankwest – Garden City, 125 Riseley Street, Booragoon WA 6154
BSB: 306066
Account number: 2762488
Account name: Incredible Photo Tours

International clients, we recommend using either Transferwise or Hifx for direct deposit payments to us. Please contact us for more details.


International Telegraphic Transfers:
If you are making an international telegraphic transfer (TT) into our account, please email us at admin@incrediblephototours.com and we will provide you with further details so you can proceed with the telegraphic transfer. Any bank fees incurred to accept the telegraphic transfer will be payable by the sender.


* Tour deposit is non-refundable and the balance payment of the tour is to be paid to our bank account via direct deposit or Paypal no later than 45 days of tour departure. Payment details will be emailed to you upon confirmation of your deposit payment and allocation of your place on the tour. Online payments using Paypal include a 3.6% service charge. There is no service charge using direct deposit. By making a Deposit or Full Payment you agree to our booking terms and conditions.

QUICK DETAILS


Start: Tokyo, Tue 17 October 2020
End: Tokyo, Wed 1 November 2020

Places visited: Tokyo, Zao Onsen, Sendai, Hiraizumi, Akita, Bandai, Aizu-Wakamatsu, Nikko, Naruko Gorge, Shirakami Sanchi, Hirosaki, Nyuto Onsen, Lake Towada.

Transport: Bullet train, regular train, public bus, private van.

Accommodation: 3-4 star hotels; 3 star ryokan (Japanese style inn) in Zao Onsen.

Type of tour: Small group photography tour
Group size: Min 1, Max 6
Fitness level: Moderate (please refer to FAQ)
Photography intensity: High (please refer to FAQ)

Price: AU$8,195 pp twin share
(early bird price)
(single supplement AU$1295)

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Tokyo | Sat. 17 Oct. 2020

Arrive at Narita or Haneda Airport and make your way to our accommodation with airport transfer assistance provided.

A welcome dinner will be held and we’ll discuss the photography and activities we will undertake over the next few days.

After dinner, we’ll visit Tokyo Skytree, heading up to the main observation deck at 350m to view the incredible Tokyo metropolis below.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: D



Day 2 – Zao Onsen | Sun. 18 Oct. 2020

An action-packed first day as we catch the shinkansen (bullet train) to Yamagata and make our way to Mt Zao and Zao Onsen.

Located on the slopes of Mt Zao, Zao Onsen is a famous mountain onsen and ski resort area in Japan. Mt Zao is especially scenic in autumn with the autumn foliage colouring the mountain with fiery orange and red hues. The beautiful Okama Crater with its lake is nearby and accessible with an easy hike.

Accom: Zao Onsen
Meals: B, D


Okama Crater

Okama Crater (御釜)


Day 3 – Ichinoseki | Mon. 19 Oct. 2020

Spend the early morning with a refreshing soak in an onsen before we depart Mt Zao and make our way to Ichinoseki. From Ichinoseki we travel to Geibikei Gorge and join a boat trip to photograph this beautiful gorge highlighted with the autumn foliage.

Accom: Ichinoseki
Meals: B



Tokyo Skytree view


Zao Onsen large outdoor onsen (hot spring)


Geibikei Gorge

Geibikei Gorge

Day 4 – Hiraizumi | Tue. 20 Oct. 2020

We spend today exploring Hiraizumi, a city which during the late Heian and most of the Kamakura periods in Japanese history, rivalled Kyoto in size and splendour.

Hiraizumi features some of the most important historical and cultural properties in the Tohoku Region. These include Chusonji Temple, which features Konjikido Hall, a spectacular gold-covered building that rivals Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto.

Accom: Ichinoseki
Meals: B



Day 5 – Bandai | Wed. 21 Oct. 20120

We travel from Sendai to Aizu-Wakatmatsu today by car, following the various roads of the Bandai region surrounded by autumn foliage at their peak.

Along the way we will look at Nakatsugawa Gorge and the various picturesque ponds that make up the Goshikinuma Pond Walk.

Accom: Aizu-Wakamatsu
Meals: B


Bishamon Pond, Goshikinuma

Bishamon Pond (毘沙門沼)

Maple trees at Chusonji

Maple trees at Chusonji (中尊寺)

Nakatsugawa Gorge

Nakatsugawa Gorge

Day 6 – Aizu-Wakamatsu | Thu. 22 Oct. 2020

Aizu-Wakamatsu is a famous castle town and well-known for its samurai history. Tsuruga Castle takes pride of place in Aizu-Wakamatsu and was one of the last strongholds of samurai that were loyal to the Tokugawa shogun before the end of the shogunate.

In the afternoon we travel to Nikko, most famous for Toshogu Shrine, the most lavishly decorated shrine in Japan and home to the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Accom: Nikko
Meals: B



Day 7 – Nikko | Fri. 23 Oct. 2020

We explore around the Nikko region today and its various sites spread out among the autumn colours, including the Hangetsuyama Viewpoint, Senjogahara Marsh, Ryuzu Falls, the Irohazaka Road, Lake Chuzenji, and the Akechidaira Plateau.

Accom: Nikko
Meals: B


Tsuruga Castle, Aizu-Wakamatsu

Tsuruga Castle

Day 8 – Nikko, Sendai | Sat. 24 Oct. 2020

We finish our exploration of Nikko this morning with a visit to Toshogu Shrine* and explore the various buildings that make up the shrine complex. Toshogu is home to some famous wood carvings, such as the “see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil” monkeys, the “sleeping cat”, and the “imagined elephant”. It also features the stunning Yomeimon Gate, recently reopened after several years of renovations.

In the afternoon we travel to Sendai, capital city of Miyagi prefecture.

Accom: Sendai
Meals: B

* Several of Toshogu Shrine’s buildings are under renovation until the 2020s. The renovation of the most famous structure here, the Yomeimon Gate, was completed in March 2017.



Day 9 – Sendai | Sun. 25 Oct. 2020

We have an early start today by visiting Shiogama, one of Japan’s most important fishing ports and a very busy fish processing center. Shiogama Fish Market is a hive of activity in the early morning, with over 140 stores selling all sorts of seafood products.

After Shiogama, we travel to nearby Matsushima. Matsushima is famous for its bay is dotted with many islets covered in pine trees and has been famous for centuries as one of Japan’s scenic “Three Famous Views”. We take a relaxed boat cruise through Matsushima Bay and travel among the islets. Back on dry land we explore some of the best viewpoints to photograph the bay.

Accom: Sendai
Meals: B


Matsushima Bay

Matsushima Bay

Kegon Falls, Nikko. Image: Aireed*

Kegon Falls

Ryuzu Falls. Image: Tanenhaus*

Day 10 – Sendai | Mon. 26 Oct. 2020

Today we visit a special destination – Naruko Gorge, one of Japan’s most spectacular gorges and a kaleidescope of vivid yellow, orange, and red colours during the autumn season.

We have the opportunity to hike part of the walking trail along Naruko Gorge and also visit the Kokeshi Museum along the way. Kokeshi are Japanese handmade wooden dolls originating from northern Japan.

Accom: Sendai

Meals: B


Naruko Gorge

Naruko Gorge(鳴子峡)

Day 11 – Akita | Tue. 27 Oct. 2020

We visit Akita prefecture today starting off with Kakunodate in the morning. Kakunodate is famous as a historic samurai town and features several well-preserved samurai-era houses. A short drive out from Kakunodate is the magnificent Dakigaeri Gorge.

In the afternoon we make our way to Lake Tazawa, a scenic caldera lake that is also Japan’s deepest lake with a maximum depth of 423m. We also visit Tsurunoyu Onsen, one of Japan’s most famous onsen, with a history of over 300 years and still maintains a traditional and rustic onsen experience.

Accom: Akita
Meals: B, D



Day 12 – Juniko Lakes | Wed. 28 Oct. 2020

Today our focus is on the northern Akita region. Here we find the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakami Sanchi, a mountainous unspoilt area that is home to Japan’s last remaining virgin beech forests. In Shirakami Sanchi, we explore Japan Canyon, and the Juniko (“Twelve Lakes”) including the Aoi-ike Pond with its incredible deep blue colour and water clarity.

We make our way from the late afternoon to Hirosaki, where we will stay in a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn.

Accom: Hirosaki
Meals: B


Wakitsubo Pond, Juniko

Wakitsubo Pond (沸壷の池)

Kakunodate Samurai District

Kakunodate samurai district

Dakigaeri Valley

Dakigaeri Valley (抱返り渓谷), Akita

Tatsuko Statue at Lake Tazawa

Tatsuko statue at Lake Tazawa

Day 13 – Hirosaki, Lake Towada | Thu. 29 Oct. 2020

Hirosaki was the political and cultural capital of the Tsugaru region in Edo-period Japan. The city is centered around Hirosaki Castle, one of a handful of original castles in Japan.

We visit Nakano Shrine outside of Hirosaki, home to a fantastic autumn colour location in Nakanomomijiyama.

In the afternoon, we make our way to Lake Towada and our accommodation on the lake shore.

Accom: Lake Towada*
Meals: B

*only single & twin beds



Day 14 – Lake Towada | Fri. 30 Oct. 2020

Lake Towada is Japan’s largest caldera lake and together with Oirase Stream, is a famous autumn colour spot in Japan. We photograph around Lake Towada today and also walk the trail along Oirase Stream looking for the best spots. Next up is Tsutanuma Pond, an amazing sight with the autumn foliage reflecting into the still water.

In the afternoon, we make our way towards Akita, staying overnight at Odate.

Accom: Odate
Meals: B

Lake Towada

Lake Towada

Oirase Stream

Oirase Stream (奥入瀬渓流)

* assorted image credits.

Day 15 – Akita, Tokyo | Sat. 31 Oct. 2020

We make our way back to Tokyo today, visiting the stunning Ikeda Garden in Daisen City on the way.

Accom: Tokyo
Meals: B, D



Day 16 – Tokyo | Sun. 1 Nov. 2020

The end of our tour and after checkout we will assist you with transfers to the airport for your flight home.

Accom: N/A
Meals: B

May 11, 2015/1 Comment/by Julius Pang
https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png 0 0 Julius Pang https://incrediblephototours.com/wp-content/uploads//2015/01/IPT_logo_website.png Julius Pang2015-05-11 13:56:272019-04-17 15:06:45Tohoku Japan Autumn Tour
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Instagram

S&R Orchard hosts a popular blossom festival every S&R Orchard hosts a popular blossom festival every year in September. The plum, peach and cherry blossoms make the perfect additions to any portrait.⁠
⁠
It was great to come out here this year and shoot a portrait session among all the blossoms. Thanks @rowanaboatt and @srorchard⁠
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#perthisok #perthlife ⁠#justanotherdayinwa #westernaustralia #wanderlust #YourShotPhotographer #instagood #instatravel #SeeAustralia #australiagram #igperth #cityofperth  #beautifuldestinations #hanami #cherryblossom #cherryblossoms #australia #amazingwa #seenwa #thisiswa #destinationperth
I had only planned on taking landscape photos at @ I had only planned on taking landscape photos at @thepaddockbusselton, but I couldn't resist asking these beautiful ladies to pose for a few photos!⁠
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Thank you for taking time out from your sunflower picking and selfies to be my models! 😄⁠
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@issunm @ivy.tyx @b_blingx_x
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#justanotherdayinwa #citybusselton #westernaustralia #perthisok #perthlife #wanderlust #YourShotPhotographer #instagood #instatravel #SeeAustralia #australiagram #landscape_lovers #sunflowers #igperth #cityofperth #beautifuldestinations #australia #amazingwa #seenwa #thisiswa #destinationperth #soperth #exploringaustralia #summer
The Paddock Busselton is a new tourist attraction The Paddock Busselton is a new tourist attraction in Australia's South West, featuring an incredible number of sunflowers spread over a few paddocks.⁠
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Sunflowers are one of the fastest growing plants, reaching full bloom around 70-80 days after planting. The peak bloom at The Paddock is from late January to early February.⁠
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I drove down from Perth to see the final weekend of full bloom thinking whether it was worth the 2.5hr drive - it was most definitely worth the drive, and the crazy wind and rain that came in the afternoon!⁠
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On this final weekend of blooming visitors were also allowed to pick and purchase their own sunflowers, with many taking home head-sized sunflowers!⁠
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Thanks to Beau and Casey for opening up this beautiful and bright place for the public to enjoy. Looking forward to visiting again in 2023!⁠
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@thepaddockbusselton⁠
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#justanotherdayinwa #citybusselton #westernaustralia #perthisok #perthlife #wanderlust #YourShotPhotographer #instagood #instatravel #SeeAustralia #australiagram #landscape_lovers #sunflowers #igperth #cityofperth #beautifuldestinations #australia #amazingwa #seenwa #thisiswa #destinationperth #soperth #exploringaustralia #summer
One of Perth's hidden gems is Yanchep Lavender Far One of Perth's hidden gems is Yanchep Lavender Farm. This is the largest operating lavender farm in Perth and is a wonderful place to spend a late afternoon.⁠
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You can wander the lavender field featuring over 40,000 plants and discover all sorts of lavender-based treats and products at the newly built café.⁠
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Here is @queen.of.jetlags during our portrait session enjoying the beautiful fragrance in the lavender field.⁠
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Thanks to the owners Gary and Karla for providing access to your lavender farm and teaching us more about lavender. @yancheplavenderfarm⁠
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If you want to visit Yanchep Lavender Farm, get in over the next couple of weeks as the lavender will be harvested in late February.⁠
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#justanotherdayinwa #perthisok #perthlife #westernaustralia #wanderlust #YourShotPhotographer #instagood #instatravel #SeeAustralia #australiagram #landscape_lovers #igperth #cityofperth #cityofwanneroo #beautifuldestinations #lavender #australia #amazingwa #seenwa #thisiswa #destinationperth #soperth #exploringaustralia #summer⁠
From late October through November, the jacaranda From late October through November, the jacaranda trees hit full bloom in Perth. It was quite interesting to experience the jacaranda bloom at their peak for the first time in many years as I'm normally overseas this time of the year.⁠
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Perth has some outstanding jacaranda spots and this superb jacaranda outside Parliament House was perfect for  our photo shoot.⁠
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Looking forward to shooting more portraits in beautiful locations in Perth and Western Australia in 2022!⁠
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Model: @meetmeimei⁠
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#justanotherdayinwa #perthisok #perthlife #westernaustralia #wanderlust #YourShotPhotographer #instagood #instatravel #SeeAustralia #australiagram #landscape_lovers #igperth #cityofperth #beautifuldestinations #jacarandaseason #jacarandafestival #nature #australia #amazingwa #westernaustralia #seenwa #thisiswa #destinationperth #soperth #spring
After a long break from Instagram, I'm back! With After a long break from Instagram, I'm back! With COVID-19 affecting so many people and livelihoods, it was good to take a break from IG. 2020 and 2021 will be first years in many years I haven't travelled extensively overseas and I've really missed Japan.

I had plans to be in Tokyo for the Olympics  but COVID travel restrictions changed all that; it's so unfortunate that Tokyo is still dealing with such a bad COVID situation.

I hope Tokyo will recover sooner than later and international travel can resume to this amazing city.

When I get back to Tokyo I look forward to seeing and shooting these two locations again - the twilight view of Mount Fuji from Tokyo Skytree and the Olympic Stadium.

Thank you Tokyo for hosting a wonderful Olympics. It's been great to watch on TV all the amazing performances from athletes these past two weeks.

#Tokyo #Japan #Olympics #Tokyo2020 #tokyoolympics #MountFuji #富士 #beautifuldestinations #ig_japan #japantrip #VisitJapan #VisitJapanAU #tokyocameraclub #JapanRevealed #Shinjuku #visitjapanjp #tokyoskytree
After a bit of a break from Instagram, It was good After a bit of a break from Instagram, It was good to be able to get out this morning to take some photos and come away with something nice.⁠
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Here in Perth we've been experiencing the effects of a "superstorm" the past couple of days. Together with the high tide and new moon, this creates my favourite conditions to shoot the Blue Boatshed under.⁠
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I only ever come out to this spot in these conditions when it's possible to see a "floating boatshed". Really magical to see and shoot this!⁠
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#perthisok #perthlife #cityofperth #westernaustralia #justanotherdayinwa #wanderlust #visitperth #instagood #instatravel #SeeAustralia #australiagram #landscape_lovers #igperth #cityofperth #beautifuldestinations #bnwlandscape #exploretocreate #perthlife #thevisualscollective  #artofvisuals #AGameofTones #stayandwander #perthvibes #thewestaustralian #bnwlandscape #Bnw_Greatshots #longexposure #nikontop #moodygrams #landscape_captures
Plum blossoms, Nabana no Sato (梅,なばなの里 Plum blossoms, Nabana no Sato (梅,なばなの里)⁠
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One of the great things about the end of winter and start of spring in Japan is seeing plum blossoms in bloom.⁠
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Plum blossoms (梅, ume) aren't as popular as cherry blossoms but historically were the first trees admired when the practice of hanami (花見, flower viewing) began in the Nara Period (710-794). As time went on, cherry blossoms (桜, sakura) became more popular and are now synonymous with hanami.⁠
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While cherry blossoms look more impressive with their huge density, I think plum blossoms have wonderful charm with a more minimalist and delicate look.⁠
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There are few gardens in Japan that have great plum blossoms and the one at Nabana no Sato is stunning, featuring many weeping plums.⁠
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Follow @juliuspang to see more of beautiful Japan!⁠
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#Japan #exploringjapan #hanami #梅 #flowers #japangarden #Aichi #Nagoya #nabananosato #cherryblossom #sakura #ptk_japan #japan_daytime_view #lovers_nippon #instatravel #ig_japan #igtravel #japantravels #VisitJapanAU #JapanRevealed #VisitJapanUS #VisitJapan #journeythroughjapan #passionpassport #japantravelphoto #traveldeeper #BDTeam #写真好きな人と繋がりたい #otonatabi_japan #tokyocameraclub⁠
Torii gate at Konpira Shrine, Shosanbetsu (金比羅神社)⁠
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While torii can be found all over Japan, there are relatively few that are located in water. Most of these "floating torii" are located well off the beaten track so you can find yourself being the only person around if you make the effort to get there.⁠
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It's rewarding being able to photograph this kind of subject in complete peace and isolation, then simply enjoy the scene once shooting is done.⁠
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I hope to get a chance to show this special spot to other travellers on a special Hokkaido tour in future.⁠
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#torii #鳥居 #Hokkaido #Japan #instagood #instatravel #ig_japan #japantrip #bnwlandscape #longexposure #beautifuldestinations #photooftheday #worldtravelbook #bnw_captures #landscape_captures #landscapelovers #igersjp #beautifuldestinations #nikontop #ptk_japan #AGameofTones #japantravels #VisitJapanAU #JapanRevealed #VisitJapanUS #VisitJapan #visitjapanjp #tokyocameraclub
Floating Torii of Ōuo Shrine (大魚神社の海中鳥居)⁠
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This beautiful set of 3 torii gates can be found in Saga Prefecture in the Ariake Sea. They are part of Ōuo Shrine which dates back over 300 years.⁠
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Legend has it that local residents invited a corrupt magistrate to a part on nearby Okinoshima island. There they got him drunk and abandoned him. The magistrate prayed to the god Ryujin to be rescued and a giant fish called "Namiouo" came to help him, ferrying him back on his back to the mainland. The magistrate built a shrine to show his gratitude to Namiouo, and named Ōuo Shrine, which translates to "large fish shrine".⁠
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In this area there is a tidal range of up to 6m, which is the largest in Japan. This is a really nice peaceful spot to watch the sun go down, and walk around the torii gates watching the tide come in.⁠
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#torii #鳥居 #Saga #佐賀県 #Japan #coast #instagood #instatravel #ig_japan #japantrip #ilovejapan #bnwlandscape #Bnw_Greatshots #longexposure #beautifuldestinations #worldtravelbook #bnw_captures #landscape_captures #landscapelovers #igersjp #beautifuldestinations  #ptk_japan #AGameofTones #japantravels #JapanRevealed #VisitJapanUS #VisitJapan #visitjapanjp #tokyocameraclub #東京カメラ部界
Ebisu Iwa and Daikoku Iwa (えびす岩・大黒岩)⁠
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These two rocks are shintai (神体, "body of the kami") - physical objects where gods (kami) reside. They are named after two famous deities, Ebisu and Daikoku.⁠
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Ebisu is the god of fishermen and luck, and Daikoku is the god of farmers and wealth. They are often paired together and are part of the Seven Gods of Fortune (七福神, Shichifukujin). Both will bring you good fortune, but they didn't help me with the freezing weather while I was shooting!⁠
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Ebisu Iwa and Daikoku Iwa are a beautiful photography subject along the stunning western Hokkaido coast. I'm looking forward to including this place in a new Hokkaido winter tour next year.⁠
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#Hokkaido #Japan #coast #instagood #instatravel #ig_japan #japantrip #ilovejapan #bnwlandscape #Bnw_Greatshots #longexposure #beautifuldestinations #photooftheday #worldtravelbook #bnw_captures #landscape_captures #landscapelovers #igersjp #beautifuldestinations #nikontop #ptk_japan #AGameofTones #japantravels #VisitJapanAU #JapanRevealed #VisitJapanUS #VisitJapan #visitjapanjp #tokyocameraclub  #東京カメラ部⁠
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Bentenjima Red Torii, 弁天島シンボルタワー(赤鳥居)⁠
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At an impressive 18m in height, this huge torii gate stands in the middle of Lake Hamana just off Benten Island (Bentenjima). The red torii is the symbol of Bentenjima and is also named Bentenjima Symbol Tower.⁠
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The red torii is a known spiritual "power spot" and is famous for its sunset view in the torii around winter solstice. I'll have to revisit to see that next time round!⁠
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@instagram #torii #鳥居 #Hamamatsu #浜松市 #弁天島 #Japan #静岡県 #clouds #bentenjima #toriigate #instagood #instatravel #ig_japan #beautifuldestinations #photooftheday #worldtravelbook #landscape_captures #landscapelovers #igersjp #beautifuldestinations #nikontop #ptk_japan #japantravels #VisitJapanAU #JapanRevealed #VisitJapanUS #VisitJapan #visitjapanjp #tokyocameraclub #ファインダー越しの私の世界
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