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Join us on a captivating photo tour to Japan as we traverse its enchanting landscapes in autumn, a season that paints the country with a vibrant palette of colors. As we navigate through this land of contrasts, where ancient traditions coexist with modern innovations, we’ll immerse ourselves in a rich tapestry of experiences that are a feast for both the senses and the camera lens.
Autumn in Japan is a time of ‘Momijigari’, a cherished tradition of “hunting for autumn leaves.” This time-honored practice sees the landscapes transform into a spectacular canvas of fiery reds, brilliant oranges, and golden yellows, creating scenes that are nothing short of a visual symphony.
Our journey will take us from the pulsating heart of Tokyo, a city that never sleeps and is a harmonious blend of the old and the new, to the tranquil bamboo groves of Arashiyama, where the whispering winds carry tales of yore. We’ll tread the ancient pathways of Kyoto, a city that cradles Japan’s rich cultural heritage within its historic temples, and wander through the peaceful gardens of Nara, where time seems to stand still.
Last but not least, a trip to japan would not be complete without exploring the Five Lakes region of Mount Fuji. More than just a mountain, Mount Fuji stands as a majestic symbol of Japan, inspiring awe and reverence. The Five Lakes region, with its tranquil waters mirroring the grandeur of Mount Fuji, offers a serene setting for landscape photography, a place where nature narrates a captivating tale.
Each location on our itinerary is a chapter in the story of Japan, offering a unique blend of colors, textures, and atmospheres. Together, we’ll capture these scenes, crafting a visual narrative that reflects the soul of Japan and its people. This is more than a photographic journey; it’s an invitation to experience and understand the essence of Japan.
Arrive at Tokyo International Airport and transfer to the hotel to relax after the long flight and have a trip start briefing.
Dinner at one of the hotel restaurants and evening at leisure.
We officially start the journey by transferring with our private car to the Five Lakes area of Mount Fuji, a symbol of Japan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Fujisan, as it is affectionately known in Japan, is not just a mountain, but a sacred entity, a source of inspiration, and a muse for artists and poets. As we approach this majestic peak, we’ll be greeted by its snow-capped summit, standing tall against the backdrop of the clear autumn sky, a sight that will take your breath away.
Our exploration takes us to the Five Lakes area, a region that offers some of the most stunning views of Mount Fuji. Each lake, with its tranquil waters, reflects the grandeur of Mount Fuji, creating a mirror image that is a photographer’s delight. The autumn season adds another layer of beauty to this landscape, with the surrounding foliage transforming into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.
With a private car at our disposal, we’ll navigate through the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, a natural paradise that surrounds Mount Fuji, capturing the mountain from various angles, each offering a unique perspective of this iconic peak.
The private car also gives us the flexibility and mobility to chase the best light, allowing us to be at the right place at the right time for the magical moments of sunrise and sunset. These are the moments when Mount Fuji is bathed in a soft, warm glow, creating a scene that is truly mesmerizing. As photographers, we understand the importance of light in creating impactful images, and we’ll make the most of these golden hours.
As we immerse ourselves in this landscape, we’ll experience the profound sense of awe and reverence that Mount Fuji inspires in the hearts of the Japanese people. This is not just a journey to a mountain, but a pilgrimage to a sacred site, a journey into the heart of Japan’s natural and cultural heritage. As photographers, we’ll have the opportunity to capture these moments, creating images that reflect the spirit of Mount Fuji and its surrounding landscapes.
We immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the Five Lakes region and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, enveloped in autumn colors.
These days are dedicated to capturing the majestic Mount Fuji from the best vantage points, each offering a unique perspective of this iconic peak. The tranquil waters of the Five Lakes, reflecting the grandeur of Fujisan, offer a serene setting for landscape photography. The region is also home to several charming towns and villages, where you can experience the traditional Japanese way of life.
Our private car will be our companion, providing us the flexibility to chase the best light and the mobility to reach the most picturesque locations. We’ll start our days early, aiming to capture the first rays of the sun as they illuminate the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset, with its soft, warm light, transform the landscape into a scene straight out of a painting.
We’ll hike to the Chureito Pagoda, a five-storied pagoda on the mountainside overlooking Fujiyoshida City and Mount Fuji. The pagoda is particularly popular during the cherry blossom season and the autumn season when the surrounding trees transform into vibrant colors, creating a stunning contrast with the white peak of Mount Fuji.
We’ll also explore the streets of Fujiyoshida, a city that offers a unique perspective of Mount Fuji. The city, with its traditional houses and narrow streets, provides a stark contrast to the grandeur of Mount Fuji, creating a unique composition for our photographs.
Our journey will also take us to Lake Ashi in Hakone, a scenic lake formed in the caldera of Mount Hakone after the volcano’s last eruption 3000 years ago. The lake, with its serene waters and the backdrop of Mount Fuji, offers a tranquil setting for landscape photography. The sight of the iconic mountain reflected in the calm waters of the lake is a sight to behold, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
And, at the end of the day, we’ll find ourselves on the shores of the Five Lakes, strolling around the autumn festivals on the banks of the Kawaguchi lake.
Here, the autumn colors, the tranquil waters of the lakes, and the majestic Mount Fuji come together to create a scene that is truly mesmerizing.
This is not just a journey to a mountain, but a pilgrimage to a sacred site, a journey into the heart of Japan’s natural and cultural heritage. As photographers, we’ll have the opportunity to capture these moments, creating images that reflect the spirit of Mount Fuji and its surrounding landscapes.
After the last sunrise in the presence of Mount Fuji we continue our journey through time as we traverse the historic Nakasendo Route towards the Kiso Valley.
The Nakasendo, which translates to ‘path through mountains’, was one of the five routes of the Edo period. It was a vital link connecting Kyoto and Edo (now Tokyo), and was frequented by samurais, merchants, and travelers.
Today, the Nakasendo Route offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich history and culture, with its beautifully preserved post towns and stunning natural beauty.
The Kiso Valley, nestled in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is a place where time seems to have stood still. As we journey through the valley, we’ll experience the ancient Japan of the Edo period. The valley is known for its beautifully preserved post towns, which were once bustling hubs of activity during the Edo period. These towns, with their traditional wooden houses, stone paths, and old-world charm, offer a unique composition for our photographs.
One of the highlights of our journey will be the post town of Magome. The cobblestone streets, lined with traditional wooden houses and lanterns, create a scene that is straight out of a storybook. The sunset session in Magome will be a feast for our lenses, as the warm light transforms the town into a scene bathed in gold.
This day is not just about capturing beautiful images, but about immersing ourselves in the history and culture of Japan. As we walk the ancient Nakasendo Route and explore the post towns of the Kiso Valley, we’ll experience the spirit of traditional Japan, a spirit that continues to live on in these historic towns.
Begin our day with a sunrise session on the shores of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest freshwater lake.
The lake, surrounded by mountains and dotted with small islands, offers a tranquil setting for landscape photography. The autumn season adds another layer of beauty to this landscape, with the surrounding foliage transforming into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow.
As the day unfolds, we’ll journey to Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan.
Kyoto, a city where the past lives on in the present, is a treasure trove of cultural and historical landmarks. From ancient temples and shrines to traditional tea houses and geisha districts, Kyoto is a city that beautifully balances tradition and modernity. As we explore the city, we’ll experience the timeless charm of Kyoto, capturing its historic sites, traditional architecture, and vibrant street life.
Our day culminates with a sunset session at the Daigo-ji temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the sun begins to set, the temple complex, with its five-story pagoda, beautiful gardens, and historic buildings, is bathed in a soft, warm glow. The autumn season transforms Daigo-ji into a magical scene, with the temple buildings framed by vibrant autumn leaves. The sight of the pagoda surrounded by a sea of red and gold leaves, is a sight to behold.
This day is not just about capturing beautiful images, but about immersing ourselves in the history and culture of Japan. As we walk the ancient streets of Kyoto and explore its historic sites, we’ll experience the spirit of traditional Japan, a spirit that continues to live on in this historic city.
Given the rich tapestry of photographic opportunities in Japan, we have meticulously planned our overnight stays in strategic locations.
This thoughtful arrangement ensures that we are perfectly positioned to immerse ourselves in the timeless allure of Kyoto, yet optimizing our travel routes, allowing us to seamlessly transition between the diverse array of locations that this historic city and its surroundings have to offer. In this way, we are able to fully experience and photograph Kyoto’s enduring charm, while making the most efficient use of our time together.
Over these three days we dive in the timeless charm of Kyoto and its surrounding areas. Kyoto, once the capital of Japan, is a city where the past lives on in the present. It’s a city that boasts of beautiful temples, traditional wooden houses, and charming tea houses. Here, geishas still walk the streets, and tea ceremonies, flower arrangement, and kimonos are a part of everyday life.
Our journey will take us through the historic districts of Higashiyama and Gion, where time seems to have stood still. The narrow, winding streets, lined with traditional wooden houses and lantern-lit alleyways, offer a glimpse into the Kyoto of yesteryears. The temples of Kiyomizu-dera and Hokan-ji are architectural marvels, offering a serene setting for our photography sessions.
One of the highlights of our journey will be a session with a model dressed in traditional Japanese attire. This unique opportunity will allow us to capture the essence of traditional Japanese culture, creating images that are not just visually stunning, but also deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Japan.
Venturing out of the city, we’ll explore the traditional village of Arashiyama and its famous bamboo forest. The sight of the towering bamboo groves, swaying gently in the wind, creates a scene that is both tranquil and mesmerizing.
Our journey will also take us to the Fushimi Inari-Taisha shrine, known for its thousands of red torii gates. The torii gates, which form a path up the mountain, offer a unique composition for our photographs.
We’ll also visit the eclectic and lively city of Osaka, known for its modern architecture, vibrant nightlife, and street food. And finally, we’ll explore the tranquil Nara Park, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer.
Our experienced accompanying photographer will manage the order of travel according to the weather conditions, ensuring the best possible photographic experience in the different locations. We’ll stay overnight in strategic locations, optimizing our commute and ensuring that we experience Kyoto’s timeless atmosphere to the fullest during the best hours for photography.
After a final sunrise session in Higashiyama, Kyoto’s historic district where the past whispers in every corner, we will board the Shinkansen, Japan’s iconic bullet train. As we speed towards Tokyo, we leave behind the timeless charm of Kyoto, and prepare ourselves for the exhilarating energy of Japan’s capital city.
Tokyo, often hailed as the greatest city on Earth, is a sprawling metropolis that stretches out in all directions, encompassing 23 central district-cities and numerous suburban cities. It’s a city that never sleeps, a city that is constantly on the move, a city that is as fascinating as it is overwhelming.
Tokyo is a city of contrasts, a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, both pushed to their extremes. On one hand, you have districts like Asakusa, where ancient temples stand amidst traditional shops and houses. On the other hand, you have districts like Shibuya and Shinjuku, where towering skyscrapers and neon lights dominate the landscape.
Our first evening in Tokyo will be spent exploring the streets of Shinjuku. As the sun sets and the neon lights come to life, Shinjuku transforms into a vibrant hub of activity. The streets, lined with skyscrapers, shops, restaurants, and bars, are filled with people from all walks of life. The bright neon lights, the bustling crowds, and the energy of the city create a scene that is both chaotic and mesmerizing.
As photographers, we’ll have the opportunity to capture the many faces of Tokyo. From the serene beauty of its ancient temples to the vibrant energy of its modern districts, each location offers a unique perspective of the city. This is not just a journey to a city, but an exploration of a culture that beautifully balances tradition and modernity.
Over the last three days, we’ll traverse the city, exploring its iconic wards, each with its unique character and charm. From the vibrant energy of Shinjuku to the historic charm of Asakusa, from the eclectic craze of Akihabara to the bustling streets of Shibuya, we’ll experience Tokyo in all its multifaceted glory.
Shinjuku, with its towering skyscrapers and neon lights, is a testament to Tokyo’s modernity. As we navigate the bustling streets, we’ll capture the vibrant energy of this district, a place where the city’s pulse can be felt most strongly.
Asakusa, on the other hand, offers a glimpse into Tokyo’s past. The district is home to the Senso-Ji Temple, an ancient Buddhist temple that is a beacon of tranquility amidst the urban chaos. As we explore Asakusa, we’ll experience the timeless charm of old Tokyo, a stark contrast to the modernity of Shinjuku.
Akihabara, known as the “Electric Town”, is a paradise for tech enthusiasts. With its countless electronics shops and anime stores, Akihabara is a district that embraces the quirky and the eccentric. And if our memory cards run out, fear not. Akihabara, with its overwhelming array of electronics shops, will have us covered.
Shibuya, famous for its iconic scramble crossing, is a district that never sleeps. The sight of hundreds of people crossing the street in unison, against the backdrop of towering buildings and bright neon lights, is a sight to behold.
Our journey through Tokyo will be facilitated by the city’s efficient subway system, with its 13 lines connecting the various districts. We’ll photograph the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and corners at times most conducive to photography, capturing Tokyo in its best light.
These three days in Tokyo will not just be about capturing beautiful images, but about immersing ourselves in the heart of modern Japanese culture. As we explore the city, we’ll experience the unique blend of tradition and modernity that defines Tokyo, creating images that reflect the spirit of this dynamic city.
As the dawn of our final day in Japan breaks, we find ourselves with a full day ahead to continue our exploration and photography of Tokyo. The city, with its endless array of sights and experiences, continues to beckon us. From the serene beauty of its ancient temples to the vibrant energy of its modern districts, Tokyo offers a wealth of photographic opportunities.
Our late evening return flight affords us the luxury of time, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the city’s rhythm one last time. We’ll seize this opportunity to revisit our favorite spots, chase the best light, and capture any scenes that may have eluded us. As the sun sets on our final day, we’ll find ourselves amidst the city’s iconic neon lights, capturing the city as it transitions from day to night.
As the city lights twinkle in the twilight, we’ll board the Narita Express, a comfortable and efficient train service that will whisk us away to the airport. As we journey towards the airport, we’ll have a chance to reflect on our experiences, the places we’ve visited, and the images we’ve captured.
Our journey through Japan has been a photographic pilgrimage, a journey into the heart of a culture that beautifully balances tradition and modernity. As we prepare to catch our international flights, we carry with us not just memory cards filled with images, but hearts filled with experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
As we bid farewell to Japan, we do so with a sense of gratitude and fulfillment. We’ve experienced the country’s unique blend of tradition and modernity, captured its stunning landscapes and vibrant cityscapes, and immersed ourselves in its rich culture and history. As photographers, we’ve had the opportunity to see Japan through our lenses, creating images that reflect the spirit of this remarkable country.
To book this tour send an email to mail@marcobottigelli.com or fill the form below
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Photo tours are an ideal way to enhance your photography skills and capture stunning photographs in breathtaking locations. As an experienced tour leader with profound knowledge of the destinations we visit, we can provide you with the expertise you need to take your photography to the next level.
Our photo tours are designed to offer unique opportunities for photographers of all skill levels to take breathtaking shots in picturesque locations. By joining our tours, you’ll have access to top-quality photography gear, as well as expert guidance and invaluable tips and techniques from experienced photographers.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our photo tours are an excellent way to explore new locations, meet like-minded individuals, and create lasting memories.
Our photo tours take you to some of the most spectacular locations in the world, carefully selected by our experienced photographers who are location specialists. Our tours include destinations such as Patagonia, Namibia, Japan, Iceland, Madeira, Ireland, Italy, Norway, and many others.
Each of these destinations has been chosen for its stunning and unique landscape, perfect for capturing breathtaking photos. Our experienced photographers have profound knowledge of these locations, and will guide you through the best photography spots, provide tips and techniques, and help you capture unforgettable memories.
Yes, beginners are welcome on our photo tours! Our tours are designed to cater to photographers of all skill levels, and we provide expert guidance and tips to help beginners improve their skills and capture stunning photographs.
Our experienced photographers will be with you every step of the way, providing guidance on camera settings, composition, and other techniques to help you capture amazing shots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our photo tours offer a unique opportunity to learn from the best and capture stunning photographs.
Join us on one of our tours and let us help you take your photography skills to the next level, regardless of your skill leve
We recommend using a DSLR or mirrorless camera for our photo tours, as they offer greater flexibility and control for capturing stunning photographs. While the specific equipment required can vary depending on the destination, we generally recommend bringing a range of lenses from wide-angle to telephoto to capture a variety of perspectives.
In addition to your camera and lenses, we also recommend bringing filters to enhance your shots, such as polarizers or neutral density filters, as well as a sturdy tripod to ensure stability and sharpness in your shots. Our experienced photographers can provide guidance on equipment and settings, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
Ultimately, the equipment you bring will depend on your personal preferences and the specific destination. We recommend checking our website or contacting us for more information on the equipment needed for each tour.
Our photo tours are designed to provide a personalized and exclusive experience, so we limit the group size to a maximum of seven participants. This ensures that our experienced photographers can provide individual attention and guidance to each participant, helping them to capture the best possible shots and improve their photography skills.
With a smaller group size, we can also explore more off-the-beaten-path locations and provide a more intimate and immersive experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our small group sizes ensure that you get the most out of your photography tour.
Join us on one of our photo tours and discover the benefits of exclusive, small group travel. With our experienced photographers as your guide, you’ll capture stunning photographs and create unforgettable memories.
When preparing for a photo tour, it’s important to bring the right gear and accessories to help you capture the best possible shots. Beyond your camera and lenses, we recommend bringing comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for outdoor activities and adventure travel.
We also suggest bringing a sense of adventure and a willingness to chase the best possible conditions for photography. Our tours are designed to take you to the most picturesque locations, often in remote or hard-to-reach areas, so a spirit of adventure and flexibility is key.
In addition, we recommend bringing any accessories that may be useful for your specific destination, such as a rain cover for your camera or hiking poles for challenging terrain. Our experienced photographers can provide additional guidance on what to bring for each tour, so don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.
Our photo tours are designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience of each destination, while also allowing ample time for photography and exploration. The duration of each tour varies depending on the destination, but our tours typically range from 8 to 13 days, providing ample time to explore and capture stunning photographs.
Our experienced photographers will guide you through each location, providing expert advice on composition, lighting, and technique to help you capture the best possible shots. We also provide opportunities for image reviews and feedback sessions to help you improve your skills and techniques.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our tours provide a unique and rewarding experience that combines photography, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Yes, we offer private photo tours for individuals or small groups who are looking for a more personalized and exclusive experience. Our private tours provide a flexible itinerary that can be customized to your specific interests and needs, allowing you to explore your preferred destinations at your own pace.
Our experienced photographers will work closely with you to create a tailored itinerary that matches your photography goals and preferences, providing expert guidance and support throughout the tour. You’ll have exclusive access to our photographers’ knowledge and expertise, ensuring that you capture stunning photographs and create lasting memories.
Our private tours are available for individuals or groups of up to 7 people, and can be scheduled at your convenience. Join us on a private photo tour and discover the beauty of the world’s most spectacular destinations in a personalized and exclusive way.
Our photo tours are unique in that we not only provide an immersive experience in some of the world’s most stunning destinations, but we also prioritize teaching our participants how to improve their photography skills.
What sets our tours apart is our focus on small group sizes, with a maximum of 7 participants per tour. This allows us to provide a more personalized and exclusive experience, ensuring that each participant receives ample guidance and attention from our experienced photographers.
Our photo tours are designed to help participants improve their photography skills in a supportive and immersive environment, allowing them to grow as photographers and capture unforgettable images. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, we welcome you to join us on one of our photo tours and discover the beauty of the world’s most spectacular destinations while enhancing your photography skills.
Booking a photo tour with us is easy! Simply fill out the contact form on our website to get in touch with Marco. Alternatively, you can follow the link provided on the tour page to reach out to the agency handling the ground services for the tour you’re interested in.
Our team will be happy to provide you with additional information on tour availability, itinerary details, pricing, and any other questions you may have. Once you’ve decided on a tour and are ready to book, we’ll guide you through the booking process and ensure that you have all the information you need to prepare for your adventure.
Join us on a photo tour and capture breathtaking images of some of the world’s most spectacular destinations while learning new photography skills and making unforgettable memories. Contact us today to book your next adventure!
We partner with trusted tour agencies that specialize in each of our destinations to handle the logistics of our photo tours. These agencies are carefully selected for their expertise and experience in providing high-quality travel services, including transportation, accommodations, and activities.
Our team of experienced photographers lead the tours and provide photography guidance and instruction throughout the tour. We work closely with our tour agency partners to create a flexible itinerary that allows for plenty of time for photography while also experiencing the culture and natural beauty of each destination.
Our tour agency partners also provide important services such as travel insurance and emergency assistance, so you can rest assured that you are well taken care of during your trip. If you have any additional questions about how our tours are organized, please don’t hesitate to contact us.