JAPAN PHOTO TOURS
FROM MYSTICAL KYOTO ...
Begin your journey to Japan with an immersion in Kyoto’s timeless charm. Wander among ancient temples and Zen gardens, where every corner evokes stories of a bygone era. Moreover, the serenity of hidden shrines and the soft petals of cherry blossoms create an atmosphere that blends elegance and spirituality.
Continue to Nara, where the magic of the past comes alive. Here, sacred deer roam freely among centuries-old temples, while the Great Buddha watches over the city with calm presence. As a result, every step becomes an encounter with tradition, beauty, and reflection.
Finally, reach Hiroshima, a city that transformed pain into hope. In fact, a walk through the Peace Memorial and Peace Park reveals the resilience of its people and their gaze toward the future.
In addition, don’t miss Miyajima Island, where the floating torii rises from the sea like a symbol of ethereal beauty.
... TO FUTURISTIC TOKYO
Finally, immerse yourself in the pulsating energy of Tokyo, the metropolis that embodies the vibrant heart of contemporary Japan. Discover a kaleidoscope of experiences, where ancient traditions and avant-garde trends come together in surprising harmony. From the illuminated streets of Shibuya to the traditional markets of Asakusa, every corner of Tokyo is an adventure that defies the imagination.
This journey is a symphony of contrasts and beauty, from the tranquil atmospheres of Kyoto and Nara to the resilience of Hiroshima and the vibrancy of Tokyo. It is an odyssey that will guide you through the depth and diversity of Japan, providing an experience that will resonate in your heart long after you return.
Prepare your senses for a journey that will envelop you in a dream of wonder.
INCLUDED
-
6 NIGHTS WITHOUT BREAKFAST IN KYOTO HOTEL (SINGLE ROOM)
-
5 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION WITH BREAKFAST IN TOKYO HOTEL (SINGLE ROOM)
-
JR PASS 7 DAYS (2° CLASS)
-
PHOTOGRAPHIC WORKSHOP BY A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER (ENGLISH-SPEAKING)
NOT INCLUDED
-
AIRFARE TO/FROM JAPAN
-
ALL MEALS (LUNCH/DINNER)
-
SUBWAY TICKETS
- KYOTO CITY TAX
-
VISA (IF NECESSARY)
-
ATTRACTIONS TICKETS (MONUMENTS, MUSEUMS, ETC)
-
TRAVEL INSURANCE
-
EVERYTHING IS NOT MENTIONED IN THE "INCLUDED" LIST
PROGRAM OF DAYS
DAY 1: ARRIVAL TOKYO (HANEDA AIRPORT) / KYOTO
We will meet in Haneda mid-morning (no later than 1 pm). Transfer by subway and then fast train to Kyoto, arrival at the hotel mid-afternoon, room assignment and exploration tour of the surrounding areas that will allow initial contact with the destination and the opportunity to take the first shots. At the end of the photo session return to the hotel and discussion with the tutor of individual goals to be achieved during the course of the workshop. Followed by dinner and free evening around the neighborhood.
DAY 2: KYOTO
Day dedicated to sightseeing, starting in the quaint Higashiyama district to photograph the temples and parks in the area. In the early afternoon we will move in the direction of Marutamachi to photograph the Imperial Palace. At the end of the day return to the hotel analysis of the shots with the tutor followed by dinner and free evening around the neighborhood.
DAY 3: KYOTO/NARA/KYOTO
After breakfast departure by train and stop in Fushimi to photograph the spectacular Fushimi-inari shrine one of Japan's must-see sites, famous for the red Torii street that winds along the slopes of the mountain of the same name. We will continue on to Nara another of the country's most photographically rewarding destinations, which with eight UNESCO sites is second only to Kyoto in terms of Japanese cultural heritage. We will explore the park also known as “deer park” for the presence of hundreds of these tender animals that fearlessly approach visitors in the hope of getting something to eat and to whom we will devote a specific report
... AND THEN THE GREAT BUDDHA
Another of the park's most important attractions is, without a doubt, the Daibutsu (Great Buddha), located inside the Todai- ji temple, which at 16 meters high will test our technical and artistic skills. The park also lends itself to relaxing walks amid lush nature, and we will take the opportunity to take nature shots. At the end of the day return to Kyoto to the hotel analysis of the shots with the tutor followed by dinner and free evening around the neighborhood.
DAY 4: KYOTO/HIROSHIMA/KYOTO
Early morning transfer to Hiroshima aboard the super fast Shinkansen train. Expected arrival mid-morning and visit the Shukkei-en garden, the castle, the Peace Memorial and finally the Miyajima Torii the famous Itsukushima Floating Torii. At the end of the day return to Kyoto in the late evening.
DAY 5: KYOTO
Another day at leisure for sightseeing: in the morning we will explore the Arashiyama district; in the afternoon we will move to the Gion district, better known as the Geisha district. Here we will end the day hoping to meet these fascinating characters who have made the district world famous. At the end of the day, we will return to the hotel to analyze the shots with the tutor, followed by dinner and a free evening in the neighborhood.
DAY 6: KYOTO/TOKYO
Late morning transfer by superfast train that will take us to Tokyo. Upon arrival at the hotel, room assignment and exploration tour of the surrounding areas that will allow initial contact with the destination and the opportunity to take the first shots. At the end of the photo session return to the hotel and discussion with the tutor. Followed by dinner and free evening around the neighborhood.
DAY 7: TOKYO/YANAKA/ASAKUSA
We will begin by exploring the quaint Yanaka, which teems with narrow streets and alleys, where buildings with old-fashioned and intimate Edo-period charm will make photographers travel back in time. In the afternoon, transfer to the Asakusa district, with its many cinemas, theaters, and countless restaurants and other entertainment venues. Along the 140 meters that connect Kaminarimon Gate and its huge red lanterns to the Treasury Palace Gate is the Nakamise-dori shopping street, a paved street that is home to numerous colorful souvenir stalls that we will not fail to photograph making the most of the striking colored lights. At the end return to the hotel and analysis with the tutor of the photos taken. Followed by dinner and free evening.
DAY 8: TOKYO/TSUKIJI/SHINJUKU/HARAJUKU/RAPPONGI
Wake up very early to head to Tsukiji Market, the world's largest fish market recently moved to its newest location. Here we will photograph the colorful fish stalls and the characteristic fishermen who frequent it. At mid-morning visit to the multi-ethnic Shinjuku district and nature excursion to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden an immense park that harmoniously blends European and Japanese styles. When we will arrive in the Harajuku district, the one of Japanese alternative fashion (Takeshita Street), we will go in search of the Harajuku Girls and Gothic Lolita. After lunch the group will devote a photo session to architecture. In fact, this area of the metropolis is home to the highest number of skyscrapers in all of Japan in addition to the imposing Tokyo City Government Building erected on a square bordered by arcades that makes its atmosphere surreal, especially at night
RAPPONGI THE FASHIONABLE NEIGHBORHOOD
In the afternoon, transfer to Rappongi Tokyo's most fashionable district, where the shopping streets of Azabu Juban allow visitors to savor the atmosphere of old Tokyo. Towering over the district is Tokyo's symbolic steel tower the “Tokyo Tower.” In a few minutes' walk it will be possible to reach Roppongi Hills a shopping complex offering multiple cultural activities, some 230 stores, a multiplex, a hotel, a TV station, offices and apartments, as well as green and outdoor spaces. Also here a tower, the Moors Tower, from the terrace of which we will wait for the sunset and then the evening to take spectacular photographs of the amazing views from here. At the end of the day return to the hotel analysis of the shots with the tutor followed by dinner and free evening around the neighborhood.
DAY 9: TOKYO/SHINAGAWA/SHIBUYA
We will begin in Shinagawa the business and entertainment district where the city meets the waters and where riverside bars let visitors enjoy a cool sea breeze that slows the pace of the city. In the afternoon we will move on to Shibuya where we will portray Tokyo's fashionable youth who gather here in droves to shop, eat and go dancing. A large amount of time will also be devoted to photographing the famous “multiple intersection” just outside the station, one of the busiest road crossroads in the world, but more importantly the most famous gathering place in all of Tokyo. Finally, a quick photo of the bronze statue of Hachikō, the dog who became famous for his boundless loyalty to his master. At the end return to the hotel and analysis with the tutor of the photos taken. Followed by dinner and free evening.
DAY 10: TOKYO/UENO/AKIHABARA/ODAIBA
Day in Ueno dedicated to photographing Tokyo's largest park where residents relax taking advantage of the break from work especially in this season. In addition to a temple, the park also houses a permanent display of stalls offering all kinds of food products that the Japanese are literally crazy about. Very interesting insights for original photographs will be given by the Ueno Zoological Park where a veritable tide of people cover the garden lanes in search of the strangest or funniest animal. In fact, here you can meet the famous panda, a tribute from the Chinese government to the Japanese government and much loved by children all over the world.
ODAIBA BY NIGHT
In the afternoon, transfer to the artificial island of Odaiba, characterized by huge, colorful shopping malls and extraordinary beaches washed by the Pacific. To get there, we cross the majestic Rainbow Bridge with its thousands of lights reflected in the waters of the bay at night, at the beginning of which is a striking replica of the Statue of Liberty. Visit the FUJI TV building, an imposing and futuristic structure with a panoramic sphere in the center. Then enter Venus Fort, a European Renaissance-style shopping mall inside which an artificial sky has been built that is synchronized with the one outside. Here are elevated outdoor terraces from which we can wait for sunset and evening to photograph the spectacular Tokyo Bay skyline check shots with the tutor followed by dinner and free evening.
DAY 11: JAPAN DEPARTURE
Around 8.30, after breakfast, transfer to the subway to Haneda. Based on operations, check in and take off for home.
To ensure the best conditions for carrying out the workshop, the program of the days may undergo variations based on logistical and weather factors.
WHICH GENRE OF PHOTOGRAPHY
DO YOU PREFER?
Whatever your favorite genre, we have good news for you: during these intense days you will practice with most of the existing photographic genres. You will be able to alternate photographs of rural landscapes with those of urban landscapes or dedicate yourself to street photography, architectural photography and if you are still not satisfied, the faces of the Japanese will inspire you to create extraordinary portraits.
ALSO NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
Then, in the evening, a festival of lights and colorful signs will attract your attention until you choose the best shot, set up the tripod in front of you and take the perfect shot, the one you've been looking for for a long time or even better , the one you didn't even imagine existed. Don't worry you will never be alone. The tutor who will accompany you will be able to advise you on which genre of photography you are most inclined to practice and together you will decide which subjects will be most useful for you to look for, to create increasingly exciting and evocative shots.
PERFECT LOGISTICS
In Kyoto the participants will be accommodated in single rooms, in an excellent structure just a few minutes walk from the station, an excellent starting point for visiting the numerous temples that can be easily reached by the different means of transport that depart from here. Also in Tokyo, participants will stay in single rooms in an extraordinary hotel of excellent quality. The property is located in Nihonbashi, a strategic area a few stops from Tokyo station.
WHAT PEOPLE SAY ABOUT
JAPAN PHOTO TOUR
If you think taking pictures in Japan is easy, try doing it with Mino Di Vita! Every corner hides a surprise, and with Mino in charge, even a simple walk becomes a photographic adventure. I captured geishas, skyscrapers, and even sushi that seemed to smile at me! It was a tour that was as fun as it was informative, perfect for those who want to explore Japan with a hint of fun.
Photographing Japan with Mino Di Vita was a journey between tradition and modernity. From the vibrant lights of Tokyo to the tranquil atmospheres of Kyoto, each day was a new adventure. Mino turned our tour into a real photographic treasure hunt, making us discover hidden corners and unique shots. A dynamic and exciting experience for every photography lover!
The Japan photo tour was an unforgettable trip. Mino guided us through ancient temples, Zen gardens and ultra-modern cities, helping us capture the unique beauty of Japan. With his deep knowledge of the culture and photography, each shot told a meaningful story. An experience I highly recommend to anyone who wants to explore Japan through the lens!
I visited a country that was not in my top five and now is, for several reasons: wonderful country, wonderful people, order, cleanliness, courtesy, great food...and excuse me if that is not enough!!! Of course, perhaps I would not have fully appreciated all that I have described above, had it not been for the professionalism and expertise of Mino Di Vita, professionalism and expertise that I touched with my own hand, as by the hand I felt myself being led to discover Kyoto and Tokyo. I traveled with people I would dare to call delightful and with whom I had a wonderful time. So, thank you to everyone ... but especially thank you to Mino, tutor and excellent coordinator, thank you for your patience and thank you for always being there for us travelers.
From Mori Tower, a breathtaking skyline on the 55th floor. Last night in Tokyo, a big sushi binge, a lot of laughter and also a lot of tiredness. A journey among people, a different culture to learn a lot from. A photographic journey ... but not only. Splendid traveling companions ... a beautiful adventure. I will process it all in the air upon return and at home with time ... I will cherish the best memories, I will tell with photos my emotions. Thank you Mino!
THE HIGHLIGHTS
OF THIS PHOTO TOUR:
Japan expert tutor
Discover Japan with an experienced photographer who knows every corner of the city and the customs of the Japanese.
His guidance will enable you to capture places from unique and authentic perspectives.
Your tutor will enrich this experience with his in-depth knowledge of Japan certified by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO).
group limited to 4 people
A larger number of participants does not guarantee the best interaction for effective learning
confirmed departure
The photo tour is also confirmed for a single participant
overnight stays
Individual privacy is very important,
which is why only single rooms in very nice hotels close to station stops were selected
ARE YOU STILL IN DOUBT?
Schedule a call with me to learn about
every detail of your upcoming
JAPAN PHOTO TOUR
FaceTime, Whatsapp, Zoom: I can use any of these applications to get to know each other and tell you all the benefits of this photo tour. Fill out the information request form and, based on your time zone, I will arrange a time as convenient as possible for you.
REQUEST INFORMATION FOR JAPAN PHOTO TOUR
If you would like to know more details, please feel free to contact me, I will get back to you as soon as possible.
I can chat with whatsapp, write your mobile phone number including country code and time zone in the message field.
ARE YOU READY
TO SIGN UP?
Fill in all fields of the form and finalize your registration by paying the 500.00 euro down payment with Stripe.
Once I receive the deposit, I will send you a confirmation email. Then I will ask you to pay the balance of the individual fee no later than 90 days before the start date of the chosen photography tour or, if you prefer, to pay directly upon your arrival at your destination.
To pay with Stripe click the button below and you will be directed to the appropriate payment page.
