As we welcome 2025, the Year of the Snake, I invite you to embrace a holiday season brimming with joy, anticipation, and new opportunities. Reflecting on 2024, it's clear it was an extraordinary year filled with incredible photography adventures that have left lasting memories.
One of the most exhilarating experiences was my two-month expedition through the breathtaking landscapes of Hokkaido. Leading various photography workshops, we explored unspoiled nature, capturing the incredible beauty and elegance of an array of wildlife. Highlights included witnessing the awe-inspiring Steller's sea eagles soaring overhead and the agile white-tailed eagles fishing in glistening waters. We were enchanted by the red-crowned cranes performing their mesmerizing dances in the fields and the charming Shima Enaga flitting around in the snow. Each encounter, from the playful Hokkaido red foxes to the delightful Sika deer, filled our hearts with joy. Every click of the shutter drew us deeper into the spectacular beauty surrounding us, with Hokkaido's landscapes igniting our creativity.
A particularly memorable aspect of these workshops was the opportunity for my clients to connect with members of the Ainu community. Immersing ourselves in their vibrant festivals and rich cultural heritage fostered connections that transcended borders. The Ainu are Japan's indigenous people, who welcomed us wholeheartedly, leading to friendships that will last a lifetime. We also enjoyed the rare thrill of observing Japan's captivating snow monkeys in their natural habitat. We had a breathtaking visit to the iconic Mt. Fuji, standing tall against the skyline.
In 2024, my cherry blossom workshops were, as always, a spectacular explosion of colours, capturing the perfect cherry blossom moments each day. I spent over eight weeks journeying through Japan's ancient pilgrimage paths, reaching from the southernmost tips to the northern extremes of the archipelago. Alongside a wonderful mix of new and returning photography enthusiasts, we revelled in the exquisite beauty of cherry blossoms while visiting sacred sites, including ancient Zen Buddhist sanctuaries. Together, we took time to relax and benefit from the rejuvenating effects of Shinrin Yoku—forest bathing among the stunning Sakura trees.
Autumn 2024 offered its own magic. I retraced our spring journey into the heart of Japan, witnessing nature's vibrant tapestry painted with brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange. Next Autumn, I am excited to introduce a fresh element to my Autumn group workshop: Ocean Stack photography along the breathtaking Sea of Japan. After scouting the stunning coastline from Niigata to Aomori over the past eight years, I can't wait to unveil secret routes leading you into the untouched heart of genuine Japan.
Cheers to another fantastic year of adventure, creativity, and meaningful connections!
Warm wishes,
Blain in Japan ☮️