Japan – The Great Cherry Blossom Journey

Japan
24. 3. 2026–10. 4. 2026
(18 days, 17 nights)
All
129 900 Kč + cena leteny
6 people
7-17 km per day
Michaela Glűcková, Martin Pospíchal
Czech

Join us on a unique spring photography expedition to Japan – a time when the entire country blooms into delicate shades of pink and white. Cherry blossoms, traditional temples, mountain landscapes, and modern metropolises create a setting that is a dream for every photographer and traveler.
During the journey, we will travel across Japan – from vibrant Tokyo to the iconic Mount Fuji, historic Kyoto, coastal fishing villages, and the mystical town of Nikko. We will also visit Nagano Prefecture, where we will encounter snow monkeys in their natural habitat. Our focus will be on photography in natural light, working with the atmosphere of each place, and a travel pace that allows us to truly experience every location.
This expedition is suitable not only for photographers with professional gear, but also for those who want to capture Japan using a mobile phone and experience it authentically, with respect for local culture.

Day 1: Prague - Tokyo
Departure from Prague to Japan. Journey to the Land of the Rising Sun and getting into the mood for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Tokyo
Arrival in Tokyo, transfer to the accommodation, and rest after the long flight. Depending on energy levels, a short walk in the surrounding area and a first introduction to the city’s atmosphere.

Day 3: Tokyo - cherry blossoms & city life
A day dedicated to cherry blossoms in parks and along waterfronts in central Tokyo. In the evening, we will explore livelier districts and traditional streets filled with local gastronomy.

Day 4: Tokyo - Mount Fuji area
Transfer to the Mount Fuji region. We will visit peaceful natural locations and iconic spots such as Lake Tanuki, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 5: Mount Fuji area
Early morning photography at the iconic Chureito Pagoda. During the day, we will explore traditional villages and lesser-known locations around Mount Fuji.

Day 6: Mount Fuji - Kyoto
Transfer by bullet train to Kyoto. In the afternoon, we will stroll through cherry blossom parks and visit famous sites such as Maruyama Park and Yasaka Shrine.

Day 7: Kyoto
A full day dedicated to traditional Kyoto. We will visit the Bamboo Grove, the historic Gion district, and other blooming corners of the city.

Day 8: Kyoto - Himeji - coast
Stop at the iconic Himeji Castle. In the afternoon, transfer to the seaside and overnight stay in a quieter coastal area.

Day 9: Coast - Kanazawa
In the morning, we will visit a traditional fishing area and stop at a traditional handmade Japanese paper workshop, offering insight into one of the country’s oldest crafts. In the evening, arrival in Kanazawa – an elegant city rich in history and cultural heritage.

Day 10: Kanazawa
Exploration of the historic city center – Kanazawa Castle, the famous Kenrokuen Garden, and traditional districts with the atmosphere of old Japan.

Day 11: Mountain villages (UNESCO)
A full-day trip to mountain regions and villages listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Traditional architecture and a journey back in time. We will see whether we are lucky with cherry blossoms or surprised by a still snow-covered landscape.

Day 12: Kanazawa - snow monkeys - Nikko
Transfer to the mountain areas of Nagano Prefecture, where we will photograph snow monkeys in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, we continue to the Nikko area.

Day 13: Nikko - UNESCO heritage sites
A day dedicated to important shrines and temples. We will visit, among others, the Nikko Toshogu Shrine, one of the most ornate structures in Japan.

Day 14: Nikko - nature
Excursion into the mountains to Lake Chuzenji and other natural scenery. A relaxed day ideal for landscape photography and time spent in nature.

Day 15: Nikko - Tokyo
Return to Tokyo with short stops for urban photography. In the evening, we will enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the capital.

Day 16: Tokyo - tradition & modernity
A day full of contrasts between traditional and modern Tokyo. In the morning, we will visit a traditional market, followed by Sensō-ji Temple and Kaminarimon Gate. The day will end at the iconic Tokyo Tower as the city lights up. For those still full of energy, night city photography is also an option.

Day 17: Tokyo - Prague
Free time for last-minute shopping, packing, and departure back to Prague.

Day 18: Prague
Arrival in Prague.

The price includes

  • Accommodation
  • Transportation
  • 14-day Japan Rail Pass (Green Car – First Class)
  • Entrance fees to landmarks listed in the itinerary
  • Two experienced guides and photography instructors
  • Travel agency insolvency insurance
  • Follow-up feedback session after the trip
  • Photography equipment available for loan

The client pays for his own

  • Flight (approx. CZK 45,000–50,000)
  • Meals beyond those included with accommodation
  • Optional photo sessions with geishas or samurais
  • Anything not listed in the “Included” section or the itinerary
  • Trip cancellation insurance and travel insurance
  • Optional excursions and entrance fees

Necessary equipment

  • Lenses of all focal lengths, including telephoto lenses (such as 70–200 mm, 70–300 mm)
  • Tripod and a mini tripod (like a Gorillapod) for locations where standard tripods are not allowed (a few Manfrotto tripods available for loan)
  • ND filters 64 to 1,000 and polarizing filter (VF Foto filters available for loan)
  • Headlamp
  • Spare batteries, battery charger
  • Cleaning tools for lenses and filters (blower, microfiber cloths, special wet wipes for optics)
  • High-quality three-season clothing, windproof and waterproof, suitable for temperatures from 0–20°C; we recommend layering, and warm
    clothes for cold mornings and evenings
  • Good-quality hiking shoes as well as comfortable city footwear
  • You can take advantage of a 20% discount for our trip participants on premium clothing by Tilak and footwear by Meindl
  • We can also provide special discounts on filters from VF Foto

Mgr. Michaela Glücková
Registration number: 04736401
Invoicing address: Komenského 891
763 12 Vizovice

+420 721 729 398
[email protected]

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