Japan is a photographer’s dream. With intricate temples, exquisite traditional clothing and of course, the cherry blossom, it’s the perfect place to capture some truly spectacular photos. And here is the proof, many thanks to Wendy Wu customer Ray Hughes for sharing some of his beautiful shots taken on our Trails of Japan tour last spring.
Days 1 – 4: Fly to Tokyo and explore the city
- Take part in a traditional Japanese drumming (Taiko) class
- Visit the Meiji Shrine
- Explore the Shibuya district, home to Harajuku
- Watch the fascinating show at the Robot Restaurant
- Wander the Imperial Palace East Garden
- See the city from the Tokyo Skytree
- Discover the ancient Sensoji Temple
- Learn about the city’s history at the Edo Tokyo Museum
Day 5: Fuji Five Lakes
- Explore the Fuji Five Lakes and soak up the views of stunning Mount Fuji
“I took this photo of Fuji from my room at sunrise. We arrived the night before, it was snowing and murky and we couldn’t see a thing so when I woke up and saw Fuji in the morning sun it was a real wow moment.”
Day 6: Snow monkeys
- Stop at the magnificent Matsumoto Castle
- See snow monkeys bathing in the hot springs of Jigokudani Yaen-Koen
Day 7: Nagano to Takayama
- Witness stunning views of the Japanese Alps from the Shin-Hotaka Ropeway
- Stroll through the traditional, historic streets of Takayama
Days 8 – 9: Kyoto
- Ride the famous bullet train to Kyoto
- Visit the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine
- Explore the Kiyomizu Temple
- See the beautiful Golden Pavilion
- Discover the Ryoanji Temple and zen garden
- Wander through the Bamboo Forest
Day 10: Kyoto to Koya-san
- Discover the craft of Kimono creation at Nishijin Textile Centre
- Learn the art of origami with a workshop
- Stay overnight in a 13th century temple in a traditional tatami room
Day 11: Koya-san to Osaka
- Join the monks in their daily morning prayers
- Enjoy a walking tour and visit the Kongobuji Temple
- Explore the Okunoin Cemetery
“I have so many wonderful memories from this trip, the cherry blossom and Himeji Castle were real highlights, I got to tick off a few items on my bucket list which is great!”
Days 12 – 13: Osaka
- See the beautiful Himeji Castle
- Enjoy a sake tasting experience in a sake brewery
- Explore Osaka’s vibrant entertainment area, the Dotonbori District
Many thanks to Ray for sharing his photos – we were spoilt for choice!
Perhaps you’re feeling inspired to reach for the camera and explore the Trails of Japan? Learn more about the itinerary here.
For the lowdown on when to go, take a look at our Best Time to Visit Japan page
Off-Beat Japan
13 days from £5890pp
Fully Inclusive of Tour & Flights
Mount Fuji Hike - Snow Monkeys in Yudanaka - Koya-san Temple Stay
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