Places You'll See
Highlights
- Explore hidden gem locations like Korankei Gorge and Kamikochi, renowned for their seasonal beauty.
- Visit three popular vantage points to see Mount Fuji from different perspectives.
- Explore one of Japan’s most important Inari Shrine's filled with a thousand stone foxes.
- Walk through a gorge filled with ’Jizo’ statues and see the resting place of Japan’s most famous Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Marvel at the natural beauty of Ise Bay as we gaze upon Meoto Iwa.
- Visit Tokyo’s oldest and most ancient temple, and learn all about old Tokyo.
- Explore the stunning alpine valley of Kamikochi, considered the jewel of the Chubu Sangaku National Park, on a 1.5 hour guided hike.
- Witness rare wildlife, including the Japanese Giant Salamander and learn about the unique ecology, flora, and fauna of the region.
- Explore a picturesque temple with hundreds of Daruma dolls, and a stunning 33-metre waterfall.
Description
Embark on a 10-day scenic adventure through Japan's iconic landscapes and serene shrines, from Tokyo to Kyoto. This curated Golden Route itinerary is designed for photography lovers, blending the country's natural beauty with its cultural heritage and stunning modern architecture. Capture the awe-inspiring vistas of Mount Fuji, the tranquil shrines of Nikko, and the vibrant streets of Asakusa. Explore hidden gems like Korankei Gorge and Kamikochi, renowned for their seasonal beauty. Wander through historic temples in Kyoto and Osaka, from the mystical Fushimi Inari to the serene Minoh Falls. Ideal for photographers, this journey offers diverse landscapes, from coastal vistas to mountain views, ancient shrines, and tranquil gardens. Available from April to November, this trip ensures the perfect scenic backdrops for your most memorable shots.
Day 1 TOKYO
How to Start Your Day
Get ready for the first day of your adventure filled with the sights, sounds, and tastes of old Tokyo as you explore hidden temples, savor delicious food, and even try your hand at the art of Taiko drumming. With every step, you’ll uncover the rich culture and history of this iconic district, making it the perfect start to an unforgettable trip.
1 DAY WALKING TOUR IN ASAKUSA / all year round
Nestled within the hustle and bustle of modern Tokyo, this tour in Asakusa will give guests a great experience to explore the area and travel back in time to what was once the beating heart of Edo, now known as Tokyo. Led by a locally-based and English-speaking guide, the tour will begin at the historical temple and shopping complex of Senso-ji and Nakamise Dori. You will then learn about the traditional Japanese art of Taiko and have the opportunity to play these amazing drums. Lunch time will be spent exploring Asakusa’s popular dining destinations to sample the delights of Japanese food and Izakaya culture. The afternoon will be spent exploring Asakusa’s famous ’Kitchen Town’ and tradtional crafts, before visiting temples and shrines off the main tourist trail of Asakusa. To conclude, we will spend a relaxing time on the East side of Sumida Park enjoying the serene nature and landscape before finishing the tour with amazing views of the Asakusa skyline!
How to End Your Day
The tour will conclude outside Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Centre. Feel free to ask your guide for recommendations for dinner or directions back to your hotel.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 2 NIKKO
How to Start Your Day
Get ready to leave behind Tokyo's hustle and bustle for the serene beauty of lush mountains and historic temples and prepare to immerse yourself in the cultural treasures of Nikko. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you through intricate wood carvings, golden shrines, and tranquil natural landmarks, setting the stage for a day filled with stunning photography opportunities. Nikko’s rich history, peaceful atmosphere, and breathtaking landscapes are sure to leave leave you feeling refreshed and inspired and your camera roll full.
Explore Nikko’s World Heritage and National Park / April - October
Get out of Tokyo and step back in time to Tochigi prefecture and explore the world famous heritage site and national park of Nikko! If you want to see some of Japan’s most beautiful and culturally significant temples, shrines, traditional architecture and natural landmarks, then this tour is for you. With Nikko being two hours from Tokyo, it is the perfect day trip outside of the capital!
Granted World Heritage status in 1999, Nikko is considered the heritage hub in Japan due to its many temples and shrines rich in history with many an interesting tale to tell! It is also known for its national park nestled among the lush mountainous landscape sure to impress you and leave you feeling refreshed on your return to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo! Marvel at the gold gilded shrines, the intricate wood carvings and the nature that surrounds you as you make your way through Nikko’s World Heritage site with your tour guide!
How to End Your Day
This tour will conclude back at Asakusa at 19:15. Feel free to take in the neon lights and capture some night-time photographs, or head back to your hotel for an early night as tomorrow brings another day full of adventure.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 3 MOUNT FUJI
How to Start Your Day
On this tour you'll be headed to the world famous Mt Fuji, viewing it from Lake Kawaguchiko. Grab breakfast or snacks before embarking meeting your guide outside of Shinjuku Bus Terminal to start your adventure to see the iconic mountain!
MOUNT FUJI AND HAKONE 1 DAY TOUR / all year round
Day Tour
¥28,900
Experience nature, the lush mountainous landscape and Japan’s most famous and iconic landmark during your trip to Japan on this day trip from Tokyo! This tour has been designed so customers can experience two of Japan’s most popular and beautiful areas in one day, Fuji and Hakone. The tour will provide customers with many opportunities to see Mount Fuji from many impressive locations around the Fuji area and the Hakone area. If you love nature and spending time outdoors, this tour is for you!
Your tour will begin travelling from Shinjuku area in Tokyo either starting from a chosen designated meeting place where the tour vehicle and your guide will greet you and pick you up. Your first stop will be Hakone! In Hakone, you will enjoy a boat cruise of Lake Ashinoko so you can sit back and relax as you take in the breathtaking views. Secondly, we will pay a visit to Hakone’s famous shrine and Torii gate where you can enjoy views of the lake and take great photos. It will then be time to board the bus and head to the Fuji area! Your first Fuji destination will be a Japanese village nestled within the Fuji landscape where you enjoy views of Mount Fuji, traditional houses and see Koi carp swimming in the clear spring ponds. Your final stop will be a world famous shrine and pagoda with some of the best views of Mount Fuji.
* Tour does not include transportation after the tour concludes in Tokyo, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach the next destination.
How to End Your Day
The tour will arrive back in Shinjuku at 19:45, allowing your group time to get on an evening bullet train ride to Nagoya. We recommend grabbing some ekiben (boxed train meals) to eat on the ride.
For travelers coming from Tokyo, it’s quick and easy to reach Nagoya from Tokyo Station using the Tokaido Shinkansen. Nagoya can be reached from Tokyo in 100 minutes / JPY10,560. There are frequent services running from Tokyo Station throughout the day.
Recommended Accommodation
As one of Japan’s largest cities, Nagoya has a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences and budget.
The area immediately around Nagoya Station has many large hotels—ranging from high-end to budget—including some inside the station itself. Located a short subway ride away from Nagoya station, the Sakae area of Nagoya is the city’s main shopping and entertainment district. As such the area has many great options for travelers looking to enjoy the city’s fine dining or nightlife. For travelers looking for a more traditional stay, Nagoya and the surrounding areas also have many traditional ‘ryokan’ to choose from.
Check out our Nagoya destination page for more information on where to stay.
Day 4 ISE
How to Start Your Day
Today you will head to one of Japan's most picturesque shrines on the coast of Ise Bay along with the most sacred shrine in Japan. Arrive a little early to store your belongings in a coin locker or load them onto the tour bus for a stress-free day. Once everyone has gathered, you'll board the bus for your journey to Ise, a serene and sacred destination. As you relax during the drive, take in the scenic views of Japan’s beautiful countryside. The day ahead will be filled with spiritual moments, from exploring the revered Ise Grand Shrine to enjoying the natural beauty of Ise Bay and Meoto Iwa. Be prepared to indulge in local specialties like Ise Udon and spiny lobster, all while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this cultural gem.
1- Day Tour from Nagoya: Ise’s Sacred Shrines and Captivating Coastlines / All Year Round
Located not far from Nagoya, Ise is blessed with abundant natural beauty, from towering cypress groves to indented coastlines and mountains painted in colorful foliage. The region is also home to Japan’s most sacred shrine, Ise-Jingu. Touring these sacred grounds is a special opportunity to understand the heart and soul of the Japanese people.
On our 1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Ise’s Sacred Shrines and Captivating Coastlines you'll marvel at the natural beauty of the region and refresh your body and soul with spiritual experiences and delicious cuisine as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide from Nagoya on this full-day tour.
How to End Your Day
After your tour concludes, you'll have some free time to explore the vibrant city of Nagoya at your own pace. We highly recommend staying near the Nagoya Station area, offering convenient access to transportation and easy access to a variety of attractions, dining options, and shopping experiences, ensuring that your time in Nagoya is both enjoyable and hassle-free.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 5 KORANKEI
How to Start Your Day
Day 5 marks the half-way point of your journey, but we've barely begun to scratch the natural beauty of the region. Today you will be surrounded by the vibrant colors of Korankei Gorge. No matter what season you are visiting in, this picturesque landscape is sure to not disappoint.
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Korankei Gorge & Fox Shrines—A Photographer's Paradise / All Year Round
Day Tour
¥24,900
Experience the natural beauty and captivating scenery of Japan on this unforgettable one-day tour, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Travel to the iconic Toyokawa Inari Shrine and capture the serene beauty of its one thousand stone foxes. Marvel at the natural beauty of Korankei Gorge, one of Japan’s top spots for autumn foliage, where the vibrant colors of over 4,000 maple trees reflect off the tranquil waters. Explore Sanshu Asuke Yashiki Village, a picturesque open-air museum, where rural charms and traditional crafts await.
This tour is not only a photographer’s dream, taking you to some of Nagoya’s most photogenic spots, but also offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and timeless beauty.
How to End Your Day
Your tour will conveniently conclude back in Nagoya, making it easy for your group to remain in the same hotel as the previous night. Feel free to ask the guide for dinner recommendations or directions to some of the city's shopping districts.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 6 KAMIKOCHI
How to Start Your Day
Hope your camera is fully charged, because on your adventure today, Japan will be showing off its natural beauty to the max. Remember to pack some layers because weather in Kamikochi can change quickly and it will be notably cooler than where we start our day in Nagoya. At all times of year, please ensure you are wearing good quality footwear suitable for walking on uneven ground and we recommend always bringing a small pack or bag to carry water, snacks, umbrella, etc. Of course, your camera is a must!
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Kamikochi – Enchanting Landscapes & Seasonal Beauty / May - mid-November
Escape the city for a day and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Japan Alps. Tour a vibrant flower park, a charming mountain farm, and the iconic Kamikochi region of the Chubu Sangaku National Park. Hike the well-maintained trails to Kappa-bashi—as your guide points out unique flora and fauna along the way—and capture stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
This full-day tour from Nagoya allows you to journey to the Japan Alps and experience its natural beauty to the fullest as you are led by an experienced, English-speaking guide.
How to End Your Day
In case your camera's memory card is getting full, this tour will be ending back at Nagoya Station nearby a large electronics store. We'll let you decide whether we chose this location as our drop-off point for this reason or not.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 7 SONI HIGHLANDS
How to Start Your Day
Today we set off to one of Japan's true hidden gems the Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park and Soni Highlands. The Japanese pampas grass swaying in the wind against the backdrop of Mt. Kuroso—one of Japan’s 300 famous mountains—is a sight that is sure to mesmerize. There aren't many places to purchase lunch on today's tour, so we kindly request you to purchase a bento before meeting your guide for the day.
1-Day Tour from Nagoya: Soni Highlands Eco-Adventure & Giant Salamanders
Take an unforgettable journey into one of Japan’s most stunning and ecologically diverse regions. Not only will you discover the majestic, natural beauty of Central Japan and the Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park, but you’ll also contribute to the preservation of this exceptional landscape—ensuring that it remains a safe haven for wildlife and future explorers alike. This adventure, led by an experienced, English speaking guide from Nagoya, is designed for travelers seeking an authentic and eco-conscious experience, with a deep focus on preserving the environment for generations to come.
* Tour does not include transportation after the tour concludes in Nagoya, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation to reach the next destination.
How to End Your Day
After your tour returns to Nagoya, its time to travel to Osaka for the final, Kansai, leg of your adventure. From Nagoya, the fastest service to Osaka takes only 50-minutes / JPY5940 to reach Shin-Osaka Station.
Recommended Accommodation
As Japan’s third largest city, Osaka is a huge metropolis with a big reputation. A city of shopping, eating and nightlife, Osaka is a bit more brash than Tokyo and a lot less refined than Kyoto. The Shin-Osaka station area is probably the most convenient location to stay in the city as Shin-Osaka Station is the meeting point for tomorrow's tour.
Day 8 OSAKA
How to Start Your Day
Explore the vibrant city of Osaka with its own unique personality. Gather at your designated meeting spot in Osaka, and prepare for a relaxing and enriching journey to the serene northern region. This day promises a quiet, nature-filled journey that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired for the final remaining days of your adventure.
Osaka's Secret Adventures: Discover Daruma Magic and the Beauty of Minoh Falls / All Year Round
If you want to experience a different side of Osaka with a more natural touch, this is the tour for you. Begin your journey at the serene Daruma Temple, known for its peaceful ambiance and unique history. Here, you can explore the tranquil grounds and learn about the temple's cultural significance. After soaking in the calm atmosphere of the temple, we will take you to a nearby waterfall, a hidden gem that offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. The sound of cascading water and the lush greenery provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. This tour offers a tranquil and scenic journey, allowing you to experience the natural charm of Osaka in a new and relaxing way, showcasing the city's lesser-known natural beauty.
* Tour does not include transportation after the tour concludes in Osaka, and does not include accommodation. Customers will need to book their own transportation should you wish to stay in Kyoto for the next two nights.
How to End Your Day
After your tour returns to Shin-Osaka Station, you are welcome to remain in Osaka or travel to Kyoto and check into a hotel there for next two evenings.
Reaching Kyoto from Osaka is quick and easy as both are stops on the Tokaido Shinkansen. From Osaka, the fastest services take only 13-minutes / JPY1440. Alternatively, the JR Special Rapid service bound for Nagahama from Shin-Osaka takes 25-minutes / JPY570 to reach Kyoto.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 9 KYOTO
How to Start Your Day
Wake up in Kyoto, the most historic city in the country, attracting millions of visitors each year. A city of huge cultural importance, Kyoto boasts some of Japan's most impressive temples, shrines and gardens along with many excellent museum, galleries, shopping and dining.
Kyoto Heritage Path - From Fushimi Inari's Mystery to Kiyomizu Temple Majesty / All Year Round
Discover the essence of Kyoto with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Gion district, and Kiyomizudera. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates leading up Mount Inari, creating a mystical and unforgettable path. Next, immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, where you can wander through quaint streets lined with teahouses and possibly catch a glimpse of geiko and maiko. Conclude your journey at Kiyomizudera, a historic temple perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace and featuring the renowned Otowa Waterfall.
How to End Your Day
Once back at the station, you'll bid farewell to your guide, but the adventure doesn’t have to end there. Feel free to explore the city at your own pace, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Kyoto's traditional streets or enjoying the cuisine of the bustling Gion district. Whether you decide to linger in Kyoto's cultural heart or unwind back at your hotel, this day will leave you with lasting memories of one of Japan's most historic and charming cities.
Recommended Accommodation
Day 10 KYOTO
How to Start Your Day
Today is the day you will get to tour the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Famous for its series of paths which allow visitors to move through thick bamboo groves that sway in the breeze while filtering the light, creating an often dream-like atmosphere. Be sure to make sure your camera is fully charges with plenty of storage to capture this beautiful region of Kyoto for yourself.
1-Day Walking Tour : Traversing Kyoto's Scenic West - Arashiyama to Kinkakuji / All Year Round
Experience the enchanting beauty of Kyoto with a tour to Arashiyama and Kinkakuji. Begin your journey in Arashiyama, where you can stroll through the famous Bamboo Grove, visit the serene Tenryuji Temple, and enjoy the scenic views from the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. After immersing yourself in the natural splendor of Arashiyama, continue to Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion. Marvel at the pavilion's stunning reflection in the surrounding pond and explore the meticulously maintained gardens. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and architectural beauty, providing a memorable glimpse into Kyoto's cultural heritage.
That's it for your 10 day photography adventure across Japan! From here, you are welcome to spend some free days to do some shopping and exploring on your own, or head to some of Japan's other amazing locations such as Hiroshima, Nara, or Sapporo.
Recommended Accommodation
For those returning home from the Kansai Airport, take the Limited Express Haruka service bound for Osaka. While those with early flights out of Tokyo's airports might consider booking a hotel near the airport for a hassle-free departure day.
