The megatropolis Tokyo is our starting point for this colourful workshop. From the neon-lit streets of Shinjuku, and the impressive skyline of this futuristic city, to the quiet and spiritual lantern covered alleys of the old Asakusa district, Tokyo is a contradictory city full of wonder. 

 No trip to Japan in Autumn would be complete without a photograph of the iconic Mt Fuji. The Fuji Five-Lakes district is breathtaking at this time of the year as autumn brings a vibrancy that exemplifies the natural beauty of the lakes and vistas in the region. We will take out time to explore a wide array of shooting locations so you will be sure to capture the shy mountain in its best light.

 We take a step back into the Edo period with a visit of some of the small villages in the Kiso Valley. This gives us a glimpse into Japan's feudal past, with well-preserved wooden buildings, traditional inns (minshuku), and historic landmarks. The Kiso Valley is known for its natural beauty, with lush mountains, pristine rivers, and verdant forests. The valley is particularly picturesque during the spring cherry blossom season and the autumn foliage season.

 Our adventure continues in Kyoto: the cultural heart of Japan. Steeped in history, Kyoto has some of the most colourful temples and shrines found anywhere in the world. Our time will be wisely spent in the right locations at the right time. Early morning in the serene bamboo forest, late afternoon along the path of a thousand Torii Gates as the shadows grow long, evenings at illuminated temples such as Kiyomizu-dera. If we are lucky, we might even hear the shuffling of Geisha as they hurry from tea-house to tea-house in the twilight of Gion. 

 Heading south, we spend time at Mount Koya (Koyasan), a sacred mountain in Wakayama Prefecture. The mountain is home to a cluster of temples, monasteries, and spiritual sites, making it one of Japan's most significant religious destinations. Koyasan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and historical significance. The architecture of its temples and monasteries, as well as the artwork and artifacts housed within them, provide insights into Japan's religious and artistic heritage.

 Further exploring the Wakayama prefecture, we visit Seiganto temple - Temple of the Blue Waves and Nachi falls. Along the coast of Wakayama prefecture lie some of the most unique rock formations found in all Japan. The Hashigui-iwa Rocks, a striking natural formation along the shore, are particularly captivating. These enigmatic columns of rock jutting from the sea resemble an ancient bridge, creating a dramatic and picturesque seascape that's perfect for photography at sunrise.

 Our tour will conclude on Day 10 with the group being dropped off in central Osaka during the day, people can choose to continue their Japan adventure or make their way home when the tour is completed.

The tour covers 9 nights accommodation, transportation in private cars and ferries , and all breakfasts (some days we depart for sunrise before breakfast)

Japan is a gastronomic destination, far more than just Sushi. From succulent seafood to giant bowls of Raman, crispy tempura, or Kansai Okonomiyaki, you will come to appreciate all of what Japan has to offer your palate. When we aren't leaving in the dark to shoot sunrise, breakfasts will be provided. We will be staying in three-star or greater hotels during our trip. We will spend one night in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese Inn, which will be quite the experience. Each hotel has been selected for their value and offers a comfortable stay in petite but modern and well-equipped rooms.

All rooms on the workshop will be provided as dual occupancy. Single Occupancy is offered on a limited first come, first reserved basis for $1,200 USD for this tour but is highly recommended due to the small rooms in Japan. Please nominate Single Occupancy when booking or as early as possible to ensure reservation. If Single Occupancy cannot be reserved, we will communicate this as soon as possible.

• Two professional photography guides 

• 9 nights accommodation 

• Dual Occupancy (unless single supplement paid $1.200 USD)

• All breakfasts

• Transportation in private cars and ferries 

• Post-Processing sessions during the tour

We understand getting the photo onto the card is only half of the battle. During the workshop, there will be time to go over post-processing to help you create images that pack a punch. Our photographers will sit down with you to assist your selection process, Lightroom and Photoshop workflows and techniques, and develop your best images, so you can showcase the finest Japan has to offer.

The trip is suitable for the photographer with basic knowledge through to expert level.

• Airfare to/from Japan

• Lunch & dinners

• Train transport

• Alcoholic beverages

• Travel and equipment insurance

• Visas

• Gratuities

• Camera and lenses - ideally lenses that will cover both wide angle from 16-24mm right through to telephoto zoom at 400-600mm

• STURDY tripod - very important

• Torch or head torch

• Spare batteries and charger (plenty of batteries as we are unlikely to be able to charge during the day while travelling)

• Laptop with both Lightroom Classic & Photoshop installed

• Plenty of memory cards and adapter to link with laptop for editing

• Remote shutter control (unless your camera has bulb timer)

• Neutral density filters

• Warm winter clothing - it's midwinter so you will need merino layers, puffer jacket, hat, gloves, warm comfortable hiking boots and possibly gumboots

• Umbrella, rain poncho and waterproof camera sleeve

• The full workshop fee is $7,850 USD

• A deposit of $1,000 USD is required to secure your place

• Remaining workshop tuition amount will be due 90 days before workshop. A reminder invoice will be sent out 120 days before the workshop commencement

Click on the link to view Andy’s Terms and Conditions.