Colors of Japan Photo Tour

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Japan’s Fall Canvas

Welcome to the land of timeless tradition and breathtaking seasonal beauty. Join us for a photography tour in Japan, where fall transforms the country into a canvas of vivid reds, golds, and ambers. From the iconic silhouette of Mt. Fuji mirrored in serene lakes to Kyoto’s temples framed by fiery maple leaves, this journey is designed to immerse you in Japan’s most photogenic landscapes and cultural treasures.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy a carefully balanced itinerary of early morning shoots, guided photowalks, and hands-on tuition, all led by an expert photography guide. With small group sizes and two professional photographers, you’ll receive personal mentoring tailored to your level – whether you’re refining composition, mastering technical skills, or exploring creative storytelling. Daily image reviews and editing sessions ensure that you return home with not only a cohesive portfolio but also a deeper understanding of light, timing, and creative decision-making in the field.

Beyond photography, there’s space to soak in Japan’s unique atmosphere – wandering historic streets, visiting shrines, and savoring the quiet beauty of autumn gardens. This tour is as much about experiencing Japan’s culture as it is about capturing its seasonal magic, offering both inspiration and technical growth in equal measure

Quick Facts

Japan

Nov 17 - 26, 2026

Nov 17 - 26, 2027

Landscape & Culture Photography

Photography Guide: Sherwin Magsino & Cris Magsino

Group size: Max 6

All photography levels

Tour & Destination Highlights

Capture iconic scenes: Photograph Mt. Fuji reflected in serene lakes, Kyoto’s temples framed by fiery maple leaves, and Nara’s timeless shrines surrounded by autumn colours.
Personal mentoring from professionals: Refine your photography skills at any level with tailored guidance from two experienced photographers.
Small group advantages: Enjoy one-on-one tuition, personalised feedback, and access to the best vantage points throughout the journey.
Daily reviews and editing sessions: Strengthen your portfolio through structured image critiques and hands-on post-processing workshops.
Balanced photographic itinerary: Experience early morning shoots, guided photowalks, and creative tuition designed to maximise technical and artistic growth.
Cultural immersion: Wander historic streets, visit peaceful shrines, and explore Japan’s autumn gardens alongside your photographic experience.
Master changing light and seasons: Build confidence working with shifting light and seasonal conditions, improving composition, timing, and editing techniques.
Return with refined skills: Head home with striking images of Japan’s autumn splendor and greater confidence in diverse photographic environments.

Quick Facts

Japan

Nov 17 - 26, 2026

Nov 17 - 26, 2027

Landscape & Culture Photography

Photography Guide: Sherwin Magsino & Cris Magsino

Group size: Max 6

PRICING OVERVIEW

From USD $7,495GBP £EUR €ZAR RAUD $

USDGBPEURZARAUD

At the current exchange rate. Please note final quote might vary slightly

per person sharing

INCLUDING

All transfers by private vehicle
Accommodation
Photographic tutoring

EXCLUDING

International flights
Meals
Travel insurance
Personal expenses

EXPLORE

Photography in Japan

This photo tour is fully designed around capturing Japan’s most iconic fall colors and landscapes.

Mount Fuji rises snow-capped behind a calm lake, reflecting the mountain and forested shoreline. Red autumn leaves hang above, framing the scene with vibrant contrast against the clear sky and tranquil water._10

Stone-paved street at dusk in a traditional Japanese town, softly lit by lanterns. A person in a kimono walks toward a multi-tiered pagoda in the background, framed by wooden buildings and tiled roofs._7

Byodo-in Temple reflected in a serene pond, framed by vibrant red autumn leaves. The ornate rooftops and traditional wooden architecture highlight Japan’s cultural heritage in a peaceful seasonal setting._6

Autumn forest with red, orange, and yellow trees reflected in a glassy lake. A small hut nestles near the water’s edge, adding a peaceful human touch to the vibrant natural scene._5

Traditional wooden boat glides along a calm river framed by vibrant autumn foliage. Two people onboard, one steering with a long pole, drift past red, orange, and yellow trees in a serene Japanese landscape._4

View from a traditional Japanese room with a double-circular window framing vibrant autumn forest. Red carpet and cushions rest on tatami flooring, blending serene interior design with seasonal beauty._3

Winding road lined with fiery red and orange autumn trees curves beside a calm lake. Mount Fuji rises snow-capped in the background under a clear blue sky, while motion blur hints at a passing vehicle._2

Two people walk along a forest path beside a calm river, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage. Red, orange, and green trees reflect in the water, capturing the peaceful beauty of seasonal change._1

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE COLORS OF JAPAN

Your Photographic Experience

This tour is designed to immerse you in the art of photography while surrounded by Japan’s most evocative fall landscapes. November brings a palette of fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep ambers, creating atmospheric conditions that are ideal for both landscape and cultural photography. Each day is carefully structured to balance guided shoots with professional tuition, giving you the opportunity to refine your technical skills while exploring creative storytelling. From the tranquil reflections of Mt. Fuji in Kawaguchiko’s lakes to the cinematic streets of Kyoto and the timeless temples of Nara, you will be guided to capture scenes that combine composition, light, and narrative. Daily image reviews and editing sessions provide space to strengthen your portfolio and develop a deeper understanding of post-processing. In addition mentoring in the field focuses on timing, decision-making, and working with changing light. With a small group size and two professional photographers guiding , the experience is highly personalised, allowing for one-on-one guidance and tailored support. The journey is not only about technical growth but also about cultivating a creative vision. By the end of the tour, you will have built a cohesive portfolio that reflects Japan’s seasonal splendor and gained the confidence to approach diverse photographic environments with clarity and artistry.

Shooting Japan in November changed the way I see photography. Fuji’s autumn mornings were calm and powerful, while Kyoto slowed everything down. It was peaceful, inspiring, and deeply memorable.

Paul Alvin Magsalin

A Japan Photo Tour during Autumn is special because this is when the country transforms into a living canvas of color, atmosphere, and emotion—especially in November, when autumn foliage is in full bloom in Fuji Five Lakes and Kyoto. In Fuji Five Lakes, November brings peak reds and golden tones that frame Mount Fuji’s clean, often snow-kissed silhouette, creating dramatic contrast and calm, mirror-like reflections on the lakes during clear mornings. The cooler air and lower sun angle produce softer light and deeper shadows, ideal for refined landscape compositions. In Kyoto, November is when ancient temples and gardens are at their most expressive, with maple leaves surrounding traditional architecture, lantern-lit paths, and quiet streets that feel timeless and contemplative. The slower pace of the season and the soft, moody light enhance texture, color, and storytelling, allowing photographers to capture scenes that feel both intimate and enduring. Together, Fuji Five Lakes and Kyoto in November offer a rare moment when nature, culture, and light align at their peak—making it one of the most meaningful times of the year to photograph Japan.

Emilie Del Rosario

Gallery

Blend scenic beauty with convenience

Your Accommodation

Cozy indoor lounge with leather armchairs and a wooden table, set beside a large window framing a stunning view of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and forested hills under a clear blue sky. The warm interior features stone walls, wood flooring, and a potted plant, blending comfort with natural beauty.

In Mt Fuji, you’ll be staying at a comfortable 4-star hotel set in a scenic location with beautiful views of the mountain and surrounding lake. The property offers a relaxing atmosphere with spacious rooms, soothing hot spring baths, and a mix of dining options, making it a peaceful base for exploring the area. In Kyoto, your hotel is a modern 4-star property in a central riverside district, close to shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. With stylish rooms, welcoming facilities, and easy access to the city’s highlights, it provides a convenient and enjoyable stay for discovering Kyoto’s rich traditions and lively downtown.

WORKSHOP LEADER

Sherwin Magsino

WORKSHOP LEADER

Sherwin Magsino

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Sherwin Magsino, known as Win, is a professional landscape and commercial photographer based in Manila. He began his creative journey through his own business specialising in graphic design and web development. As a landscape photographer, Win has earned numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ani ng Dangal Award from the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), recognising outstanding Filipino artists in photography. His work has also been recognised by the Moscow Foto Awards, Budapest Foto Awards, WPPI, and the World Photographic Cup. Win was a contributor to National Geographic’s YourShot community, where his storytelling and visual narratives reached a global audience. He is currently an Ambassador for NiSi Filters Philippines and a Skylum Ambassador, and regularly leads workshops, tours, and online education.

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WORKSHOP LEADER

Cris Magsino

WORKSHOP LEADER

Cris Magsino

Cris Magsino began his professional career as a commercial photographer in 2004, but discovered his true passion for landscape photography in 2016. Since then, his work has earned recognition in international competitions and has been featured on platforms including the National Geographic website, as well as in photography exhibitions. Cris is known for his cinematic compositions and strong visual storytelling. He is currently an Ambassador for Nikon Philippines and NiSi Filters Philippines, and shares his expertise through workshops, talks, and photography retreats.

EXPERIENCE

The Itinerary

Day 1Explore Kawaguchiko lake

The morning will be spent exploring the Kawaguchiko lake area, beginning with visits to Fujikawaguchiko Choritsu and the Cherry Blossom Corridor, followed by time at the KBH Kawaguchiko Boat House. In the afternoon, you’ll discover the Momiji Corridor, Nagasaki Park, and Oishi Park, before concluding with a sunset shoot at the iconic Momiji Tunnel.

Day 2Sunrise at Chureito Pagoda

The day begins with a sunrise shoot at the iconic Chureito Pagoda, offering sweeping views of Mt. Fuji framed by autumn colours. From there, you’ll capture the dramatic perspective of Mt. Fuji perfectly aligned along the central street at Mt. Fuji Station, before exploring the traditional charm and crystal-clear springs of Oshino Hakkai. In the afternoon, the journey continues to Lake Ashi, known for its scenic waters and mountain backdrop, and concludes with a sunset session at Lake Yamanko, where the fading light reflects beautifully across the landscape.

Day 3Sunrise, Lakes & Saiko Iyashinosato Neba

The day begins with a sunrise shoot at Lake Tanuki, where the calm waters often reflect Mt. Fuji in the soft morning light. From there, you’ll visit the dramatic Shiraito Falls, a curtain of cascading streams set against lush greenery. The journey continues to Saiko Iyashinosato Neba, a restored traditional village offering both cultural charm and scenic backdrops, before concluding with an afternoon exploration of Saiko Lake, surrounded by autumn colours and mountain views.

Day 4Narai-Juku Ancient Village & Kyoto

The day begins with a sunrise shoot at Lake Shoji, where the calm waters and surrounding peaks provide a serene setting to capture Mt. Fuji in the morning light. Afterward, the journey continues with a drive to Narai-Juku, an ancient post town known for its beautifully preserved wooden buildings and traditional atmosphere. In the afternoon, you’ll travel onward to Kyoto, arriving in time to settle into the city’s rich cultural landscape and prepare for the next stage of the retreat.

Day 5Kyoto’s Icons in Autumn Light

The day begins with a sunrise shoot in Arashiyama, capturing the soft morning light over its iconic bamboo groves and riverside scenery. You’ll then enjoy a unique windows shoot at the Somekobo Yumeusai Gallery before continuing with a morning session along the Katsura River. A leisurely photowalk through Arashiyama Park offers time to explore its seasonal colours, followed by visits to the serene Ryoan-ji and the shimmering Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion. The day concludes with a sunset shoot at Kiyomizu-dera, where the temple’s dramatic views over Kyoto are bathed in the warm glow of evening light.

Day 6Kyoto’s Temples and Timeless Streets

The day begins with a sunrise shoot at Yasaka Pagoda, one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks, beautifully illuminated in the soft morning light. From there, you’ll enjoy a photowalk through the historic streets of Ninenzaka before visiting the tranquil Ruriko-in Temple and the atmospheric Enkoji Temple. The afternoon continues with a leisurely exploration of Daigo-ji Temple, offering rich cultural and seasonal scenes, before concluding with a sunset shoot at Bentendo Temple, where the warm glow of evening enhances the temple’s serene surroundings.

Day 7Shrines, Temples, and Hidden Stories

The day begins with a morning shoot at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, where the endless rows of vermilion torii gates create striking compositions in the soft light. From there, you’ll visit the elegant Byodo-in Temple, renowned for its Phoenix Hall reflected in tranquil waters. The journey continues with a morning session at Hokyo-in Temple, offering peaceful gardens and seasonal colours, before concluding at Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, famous for its collection of whimsical stone statues that provide both cultural depth and creative photographic opportunities.

Day 8From Nara’s Serenity to Osaka’s Energy

The day begins with a morning shoot in Nara Park, where the resident deer and historic temples provide unique photographic opportunities in the soft light. From there, the journey continues to Osaka, with time set aside for a vibrant photowalk through the bustling streets of Dotonbori, famous for its neon lights and lively atmosphere. In the afternoon, you’ll explore Osaka Castle, capturing its striking architecture and surrounding gardens, before winding down with some well-deserved rest to close the day.

Day 9Departure from Osaka

Colors of Japan Photo Tour

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Scenic pathway framed by a traditional Japanese torii gate and vibrant autumn foliage. Red banners with white text line the path, leading through fiery red, orange, and yellow trees toward a tranquil shrine setting.

At Penda, we're all about creating incredible photographic opportunities.

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