JAPAN

Modern & Traditional

Japan is a country steeped in tradition that’s as old as recorded time. Although the country is one of the most modern in the world, it’s also one of the most traditional. It’s a fascinating mix of contrasts that any photographer would enjoy. If you’ve never been anywhere in Asia, Japan is a great destination to start with.

There are some regional differences in this island nation, but much of what we imagine Japan to be like is on full display everywhere. Each area of the country seems to specialize in something that makes it a draw. And since Japan is one of the most densely populated countries on earth, it’s ideal to visit solo on a private guided tour.

Japan offers so much to photographers of all kinds. Landscape, street, architectural, portrait photographers — they’ll all find plenty to photograph in this fascinating country.

It’s easy to spend a week in Tokyo alone, as there’s just so much to see in the sprawling city. Add Kyoto, Osaka, Sapporo and Hiroshima, plus the smaller communities, and you’ve got a lot to visit.

Plan for about 10 days, and depending on how many locations you want to see, maybe as much as 2 or 3 weeks.

As always, the length of the journey is your call, since it’s your private tour.

JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS

Japan's Cultural Visuals

Japan's Cultural Visuals

• Sumo Wrestling
• Shibuya scramble crossing
• Geishas of Kyoto
• Many different festivals

Japan's Natural Wonders

Japan's Natural Wonders

• Mount Fuji
• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Kyoto
• Nachi Waterfall, Wakayama
• Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki
• Jigokudani Monkey Park, Yamanouchi

Architectural Marvels

Architectural Marvels

• Osaka Castle and Himeji Castle
• Countless stunning structures in Tokyo
• Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Rainbow Bridge
• Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto
• Umeda Sky Building, Osaka

UNESCO World Heritage sites

UNESCO World Heritage sites

• 19 cultural sites
• 4 natural sites

When to Travel to Japan

The climate varies considerably from island to island. For instance, winter in the north island of Hokkaido sees a lot of snow and sub-zero temperatures, while the southern island of Okinawa has a mild winter with temps in the 20’s (60’s F).

The spring months of March through May offer wonderful weather, and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. But the crowds will be there, too. September through November are also good, since the weather is nice as well — not too hot, not too cold.

Check with us if you have specific dates in mind.

•  Spring is definitely the most popular time to visit Japan. It’s peak season for tourists and cherry blossoms. It may rain a little, but not unbearable.

•  Summer months can be hot and humid, but can be nice in the mountains. Summer is also monsoon season, so it can be a problem in some areas. There’s a major holiday in August, so that can add challenges to travel.

•  Autumn months can be lovely in most parts of the country. Fall colours can be quite beautiful, and the temperatures are usually mild with cooler evenings.

•  Winter months are great, particularly if you’re interested in snow activities, hot springs, snow monkeys, etc. Areas of the country not blanketed in snow may be wet with rain.

Combines Nicely With...

If you’re thinking of combining a visit to Japan with a visit to another country, you should consider:

CHINA

Maybe consider combining your
trip to Japan with a trip to China.
Check it out...

China

At Private Photo Tours, the safety and wellbeing of our guests is very important. We do our best to keep up with the latest developments concerning the COVID-19 pandemic around the world, but things are changing pretty rapidly. So we rely on an outside source that collates the latest information in one handy location.

If you would also like more information about travelling to Japan during the current COVID-19 pandemic, please visit these websites for up-to-date details:  TravelBans.org or Sherpa

With this site, you can identify your nationality or residency, and it will give the most recent information about travel to each country, and any medical requirements or quarantines needed.