Japan - Photography Workshop

7th - 17th October 2026

🇯🇵 JAPAN LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY & CULINARY TOUR

Osaka • Kyoto • Nara • Lake Biwa • Mount Fuji • Nagano
October 2026 | Limited to Just 6 Photographers

TOUR OVERVIEW

Join Craig Williams and John Armytage for an immersive Japan Landscape Photography Tour designed for photographers who want more than just a holiday. This handcrafted experience blends Japan’s most photogenic locations with exceptional food, comfortable accommodation, and expert photographic guidance throughout.

This workshop is ideal if you’re looking for:

Inspiring light and dramatic landscapes — from iconic views to beautifully quiet, lesser-known scenes
Personalised instruction in a small-group setting
A relaxed pace that allows you to fully immerse yourself in each location
The chance to experience Japan’s incredible culinary culture alongside your photography

This is not a whirlwind sightseeing trip. It’s a thoughtfully curated photographic journey, built around light, composition, and authentic Japanese experiences.

Participants also receive exclusive discounts on NiSi Filters, Leofoto, and Summit Creative gear — let us know what equipment you’re interested in.

WHY TRAVEL WITH US

Maximum of 6 participants
Two professional photography instructors
One of the best instructor-to-guest ratios of any Japan photo tour
Daily sunrise and sunset sessions
Weather‑responsive schedule to chase the best conditions
Scenic road travel for maximum photographic flexibility

Every part of this tour — from locations to accommodation, food, timing, and travel — is designed to maximise both your photographic results and your overall experience.

PHOTOGRAPHY & CULINARY EXPERIENCE

This tour goes far beyond creating beautiful photographs — it’s a complete sensory experience.

You’ll enjoy:

Access to some of Japan’s most photogenic regions at the height of autumn colour
Handpicked restaurants known for quality, authenticity, and variety
A mix of dining styles, from relaxed neighbourhood gems to memorable multi‑course dinners
Unhurried meals, giving you time to savour each dish and connect with the group

Food is deeply woven into Japanese culture, and this journey lets you experience the country through both your camera and your tastebuds — a perfect blend of creativity and cuisine.

ACCOMMODATION

Throughout this Japan photography tour, you’ll stay in premium, 4‑star (and above) accommodation chosen to elevate both comfort and the overall travel experience.

Our stays are selected for:

Spacious, comfortable rooms — ideal for unwinding after early morning shoots
Prime locations, giving us quick access to key photographic areas
Consistent quality and service, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey

Each hotel has been carefully researched and personally approved to match the high standard of this Japan landscape photography tour.

✔️ Twin‑share accommodation included
✔️ Single supplement available (limited spaces)

ITINERARY OVERVIEW

(Public summary – confirmed guests receive the full detailed itinerary)

Osaka & Nara

We begin our journey in vibrant Osaka, capturing sunrise and sunset light around the iconic Osaka Castle. From there, we explore the historic city of Nara, photographing its peaceful parklands, ancient temples, and the famous free‑roaming deer that make this region so unique.

Kyoto & Lake Biwa

In Kyoto, we focus on a mix of traditional and atmospheric locations, including:

Early‑morning sessions at Fushimi Inari Taisha
Classic streetscapes, markets, pagodas, and hidden laneways
Warm sunset light across Kyoto’s historic districts

We then head to nearby Lake Biwa to capture serene reflections and the iconic floating torii gate, a favourite for Japan landscape photography.

Arashiyama & Mount Fuji

To make the most of quieter conditions, we start early to photograph:

The tranquil Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The grounds surrounding the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku‑ji)

Our adventure continues as we travel to the Mount Fuji region, where we photograph:

Sunset and sunrise scenes around the lakes
Moody blue‑hour images
The renowned Chureito Pagoda overlooking Fuji’s perfectly balanced silhouette

Nagano – Lakes, Castles & Wildlife

In Nagano, our focus shifts to alpine landscapes and cultural history, including:

Crystal‑clear mountain lakes and still reflections
Japan’s striking Matsumoto Castle
A visit to the charming Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, where we capture natural behaviour in a wild‑yet‑accessible environment

Scenic Return & Farewell

We wrap up the tour with relaxed scenic drives, great local food, a final sunset shoot, and a memorable farewell dinner to celebrate the journey.

TUITION & SUPPORT

Throughout the tour, you’ll receive continuous guidance from two experienced photography instructors, ensuring you’re supported every step of the way.

We provide:

Ongoing in‑field coaching during every shoot
Help with composition, camera setup, exposure control, filters, long‑exposure techniques, and panoramic workflows
Individualised one‑on‑one instruction tailored to your goals
A friendly, approachable learning environment that encourages creativity and confidence

This Japan photography tour is suitable for all skill levels — from beginners wanting structured guidance to experienced photographers seeking inspiration and professional insight.

PRICING

Japan Landscape Photography & Culinary Tour – October 2027

$11,900 AUD per person – Focus Plus Members
$12,100 AUD per person – Non‑Members

✔️ Twin‑share accommodation included
✔️ Optional single supplement available (limited)

WHAT’S INCLUDED

✔️ 11‑day / 10‑night Japan Photography Tour
✔️ Two professional photography instructors providing full guidance throughout
✔️ All in‑country transport, including vehicles, fuel, tolls, and parking
✔️ 4‑star and above accommodation
✔️ Daily sunrise and sunset photo sessions
✔️ Coaching across landscape, cultural, and street photography
✔️ Pre‑tour support, including a private WhatsApp group for communication before, during, and after the workshop
✔️ Small group experience — minimum 3, maximum 6 participants

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

✖️ International flights
✖️ Meals and beverages
✖️ Travel insurance
✖️ Personal spending

(Meals are kept flexible so you can enjoy authentic Japanese dining at your own pace and budget.)

TERMS & CONDITIONS

(Craig Williams Photography — Japan Landscape Photography Tour)

Deposits & Payments

A $1,000 AUD deposit is required to secure your place on the tour.
Deposits are fully refundable up to 60 days before the tour start date.
The remaining balance is due 1 September 2026.
Single‑room upgrades are available for an additional fee (limited availability).

Itinerary & Schedule Adjustments

To ensure the best photographic opportunities, Craig Williams Photography may adjust the itinerary, shooting locations, or daily schedule at any time.
Changes may be required due to:

Weather and light conditions
Seasonal variations
Access limitations
Safety considerations
Other unforeseen circumstances

All adjustments are made with the goal of maximising your photographic experience.

Cancellations & Refunds

Cancellations must be submitted in writing via email.
Payments are refundable up to 60 days prior to departure.
Within 60 days of departure, payments become non‑refundable unless a replacement participant is found and approved.

Responsibilities & Insurance

Craig Williams Photography is not responsible for:

International or domestic flights
Travel delays or disruptions
Loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings or photography equipment
Medical care, injuries, or associated expenses

All participants are required to hold comprehensive travel and medical insurance, including cover for photography equipment and cancellation.

Tour Cancellation by the Operator

If Craig Williams Photography must cancel the tour before it begins:

All payments made will be refunded in full.
We are not liable for any additional costs incurred by participants, including airfares, accommodation, insurance, or other travel‑related expenses.