My annual autumn leaves photo tour Japan, follows the most ancient and authentic Japanese pilgrimage routes. These routes and history are mainly known by historians, Buddhist monks and nuns, Shinto priests, and locals. We do not advertise these routes. As an amateur historian from day one in Japan I was fascinated with the ancient pilgrims routes, that Samurai used to move there forces, but most interestingly for me was the use of these routes by Daimyo’s, Geisha, Artisans, Buddhist monks, Shinto priests, and common citizens, who traveled these routes leaving the urban regions for autumn leaves viewing and meditation, painting, sketching, calligraphy, in the highlands and visited the most scenic Zen inspiring spots throughout Japan. As a bonus I found the same routes were used in the Spring to view the perfect cherry blossoms. I have been exploring these routes annually for months a year, and twenty seven years later my interest in further exploring these cross country ancient pilgrims routes, and the ancient shrines, temples, parks, samurai castles, power spots along the journey has never been stronger.
Just imagine strolling along the very pathways stopping, to view the very same aesthetically Japanese fantastic scenery, that the Emperor, the Shogun, and his family used for autumn and cherry blossom viewing, along with famous artisans such as Katsushika Hokusai, Tomioka Tessai, Fujishima Takeji, Kitagawa Utamaro, Hiroshi Yoshida and lets not forget the countless others that went just to have a holiday. If you are in the mood and wish for the scenic journey of a lifetime the Japanese authentic way off the beaten path, join a my essence of autumn Japan photo tour which will exceed your expectations. And I guarantee you will yearn to join us again.