Essence of Japan Sakura Cherry Blossom photo workshop Tour, April 5 - 15, 2027 - Japan Cherry Blossom Photography Workshop Tour
April 5 - 15, 2027
Experience the magic of Japan's Cherry Blossom season with our enchanting photo tours! Due to overwhelming demand, we always try to launch an additional tour specifically for those on our waitlist. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Small group max of Seven participants.
On this 11-day Dreamscape to Japan, this Cross-Country Cherry Blossom Photography Tour of a Lifetime. On this adventure, you'll be introduced to several incarnations of Japan's quintessential flower while pursuing the perfect, elusive cherry blossom. Are you interested in experiencing and photographing perfect cherry blossoms on a culture-rich, luxurious, cross-country Japan excursion into authentic Japan?
Day 1, 2:Day 1 and 2: Meet and Greet Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) Terminal #3, and we will transfer to Yamanashi Prefecture, the home of the iconic Mt. Fuji. We will stay in the highlands for the first two days, just an hour and a half from Mt. Fuji. We will check into our lodgings and prepare to be dazzled by the authentic Japanese countryside lifestyle and the stunning cherry blossom festival at night, where the blossoms will be beautifully illuminated. Throughout this photography workshop/tour, we will have plenty of opportunities for low-light photography. Blain, our most experienced photography workshop leader, will be by your side to assist you with techniques for low-light settings and white balance, ensuring your images are gallery-worthy.
Day 3: Day 3: Matsumoto Castle is a Japanese National Treasure that was built in 1504 and officially used by samurai until 1868. Locally, it is known as 'Karasu-Jo' or Crow Castle because of its striking black exterior. During cherry blossom season, both the castle and the cherry trees are beautifully illuminated. The reflection of the castle in its moat creates an awe-inspiring scene that is especially dramatic and picturesque for photography. You can capture stunning images of the castle with guidance from Blain's expertise. Additionally, live musicians will entertain you in the castle grounds while you enjoy a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Day 4, 5: Get ready for an unforgettable experience with the enchanting wild Japanese macaques or snow monkeys! You'll have the chance to see mother monkeys and their adorable babies as they relax in the warm hot springs. Blain, your enthusiastic photography workshop leader, knows the ins and outs of Yaen-Koen Snow Monkey Park, helping you capture stunning photos you'll cherish forever. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories!
Days 6, 7, and 8: By the Sea of Japan, you will have the rare opportunity to experience a breathtaking field of cherry blossoms and witness the stunning beauty of the Takeda Castle at sunset. This area is famous for its exceptional Japanese cuisine, particularly its sake and rice. Each dining experience will feel like a photo opportunity due to the immaculate presentation of the dishes. The regions surrounding the Sea of Japan are rich in Japanese culture, harking back to the times when Geishas, Maikos, and Shinto Maidens were a common sight. You won’t just wonder where you are; you’ll be transported to another time.
Day 9, 10, and 11: Returning to the Pacific Ocean side of Japan, we will take in majestic views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mt. Fuji, from the golden hour to twilight and between. As we explore Fuji-san, we will visit and touch the Fuji Five Lakes' waters comprising Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saikoko, Shojiko, and Motosuko lakes. At each turn, you will have a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of Japan's perfect cherry blossom with iconic Mt. Fuji in the backdrop.
Day 11: Departure late afternoon to Tokyo, Haneda Airport (HND). Please accept our warmest thanks, and we look forward to our next adventure together.
Why Choose this Photography Tour/Workshop?
☞Any level of photographer is welcome.
☞All camera formats are welcome: digital, handy cams, scoping with iPhone large format, film, etc.
☞Professional photo instruction available when requested [included].
☞Photograph Japanese cultural and architectural masterpieces.
☞Activity levels vary from leisurely to moderate.
☞Provided transportation: Sports Utility Vehicles with Business Class Seating.
☞Small group size means quality, in-depth time with your workshop leader.
☞All questions are welcome and encouraged throughout your adventure!
☞Each morning and evening, we will discuss our best shooting options with our weather conditions in hand so that we will be well prepared.
☞2027 represents the 30th year your photo workshop leader has been leading Japan photo tours.
•Min participants one Max Participants Seven.
Photo Workshop Cost: $9,900 This price includes all lodging based on double room occupancy in 3 - 5 star accommodations with western-style toiletries, all breakfast and dinners, all group ground transportation in sports utility vehicles with business class seating, all entrance fees, all donations at temples and shrines, professional photography guide instruction, and a detailed itinerary with clothing and gear recommendations.
Single Supplement: $1,400
Not Included: Flight to and from Japan, alcoholic beverages, travel health insurance
General Enrollments Information for Adventure/Workshops
by Instructor/Teacher of Photography Blain Harasymiw.
A deposit of USD$1000 per persons, will reserve a place for you on one of our tours/workshops.
