2026 Japan Winter Kyoto Photography Extension I

Travel Plan

Accommodations

Helpful Information

Explorer Testimonials

• 2026 Japan Winter Kyoto Photography Extension I Travel Plans

  Thursday, January 22

  Depart US/Canada

  Friday, January 23 (D)

  Arrive in Tokyo at any time of the day via Haneda Airport (airport code HND). Transfer to the Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport using their complimentary airport shuttle, or you can walk directly to the hotel from Terminal 3.

  Tonight, we’ll gather for a group welcome dinner. Overnight at Hotel Villa Fontaine Grand Haneda Airport

  Saturday, January 24 (B)

  Mid-morning, we’ll take a short one-hour flight to Osaka-Itami and then drive (one hour) to Kyoto.

  Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is a city where tradition meets beauty. Renowned for its stunning temples, peaceful gardens, and historic districts, it offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Kyoto will captivate you with its timeless charm and splendor.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  We’ll spend three nights at Hotel Kanra Kyoto (or similar).

  Sunday, January 25 and Monday, January 26 (B)

  We’ll have two full days to explore in and around Kyoto, and there are many areas of interest, including:

  Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka are two picturesque, cobblestone streets that wind their way up a hill leading to Kyoto’s famous Kiyomizu-dera Temple. These historic lanes evoke the charm of old Kyoto, with their preserved wooden buildings, teahouses, and artisan shops. Strolling along these gently sloping streets feels like stepping back in time, with shops selling traditional crafts, sweets, and souvenirs.

  Towering green stalks and soft, dappled light of the Arashiyama bamboo forest provide a stunning contrast to the ornate structures of the temples. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy, casting soft shadows on the pathways and inviting visitors to wander and soak in the tranquil beauty of nature.

  Located in the countryside, Ohara Sanzen-In is known for its historic buildings. The temple features moss-covered paths and tranquil ponds, a peaceful retreat that invites contemplation and reflection amidst nature.

  Founded in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji, Tenryu-ji Temple is the most significant temple in the Arashiyama district. It is renowned for its stunning gardens, especially the Sogenchi Pond Garden, which is considered one of the finest examples of Japanese landscape design. Tenryū-ji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

  Miyama is a tranquil village located in the mountains of northern Kyoto Prefecture, famous for its picturesque thatched-roof houses, which have become a symbol of rural Japan’s traditional way of life. The village is especially known for Kayabuki no Sato, an area where you can stroll through a collection of well-preserved, thatched-roof homes, many of which are over 100 years old. These homes, built in harmony with the surrounding landscape, showcase a unique architectural style that reflects the area’s history and the community’s deep connection to nature.

  Overnight at Hotel Kanra Kyoto (or similar)

  Tuesday, January 27 (B)

  We’ll have one last morning morning shoot in Kyoto before we fly back to Tokyo to begin the 2026 Japan Winter Wildlife Photography Tour I.

  • Tour Extensions Available

    • 2026 Japan Winter Wildlife Photography Tour I

      January 26th - February 9th, 2026

  • Guest Limits

    8 Guests Minimum

  • Trip Cost

    3770 pp, DBL occupancy

    Rate includes domestic flights:
    Haneda – Kyoto – Haneda

    Single supplement: 650 (limited space)

    All pricing in USD

  • Deposit

    $500 Per person due at time of booking
    Visa, MasterCard, AmEx, Discover, or check accepted

    Deposits are non-refundable. If cancellations are necessary, we require this request in writing. We will do our best to resell your space. Only if we can resell your space, we will refund (minus deposit and discounts given to sell your space). No partial refunds are possible for unused services.

  • Installments

    March 1, 2025: 1,000 pp first installment
    October 1, 2025: Final payment

    Installments are payable by check only. Please make checks payable to Natural Exposures and mail to:

    Natural Exposures
    810 N. Wallace, Suite E
    Bozeman, MT 59715

  • Included

    • Private small group travel with professional photographer Daniel J. Cox
    • 4 nights at accommodations in itinerary
    • Entrance fees for group destinations in Kyoto
    • English-speaking guide
    • Private coach/bus during the tour
    • Meals where indicated (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
    • Domestic flights Tokyo (Haneda) – Kyoto  – Tokyo (Haneda)

  • Not Included

    • International airfare
    • Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance
    • Laundry, drinks, Internet charges, and other miscellaneous personal expenses
    • Attractions/activities not listed in the itinerary
    • Meals not listed in the itinerary
    • Pre/post-trip hotel nights
    • Gratuities for bus driver and guide

  • Flights to Book

    January 22, 2026
    Depart US/Canada

    January 23, 2026
    Arrive in Tokyo via Haneda (HND) at any time of the day. Group welcome dinner this evening

    January 27, 2026
    Begin 2026 Japan Winter Wildlife Photography Tour I

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel/emergency medical evacuation insurance is not required for this photo tour, but we always recommend purchasing it for any trip. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is affordable and can be purchased for each trip or an entire year and can even be bundled with your regular travel insurance! We recommend one or more of the following, depending on your needs:

    Global Rescue
    (use code natexp)

    Allianz Global Assistance 
    (use travel agency ID F203564)

    Insure My Trip

  • Terms & Conditions

    Natural Exposures cannot control nor is responsible for abnormal weather, natural disasters, or any other disaster that might affect the trip. Travel insurance should be purchased to cover any missed flights or medical problems that may affect/delay your travel. National Parks have the right to change our itinerary.

    By booking a trip with Natural Exposures, you agree to the following CANCELLATION AND LIABILITY POLICY

• Accommodations for 2026 Japan Winter Kyoto Photography Extension I

  January 23, 1 Night
  Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport (or similar)
  Villa Fontaine Premier Haneda Airport is a sophisticated and convenient hotel just a short walk from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport Terminal 3. The hotel offers a blend of modern luxury and comfort, with spacious, well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation. Guests can enjoy various amenities, including complimentary shuttle services to the airport, free Wi-Fi, and a cozy lounge area. The hotel’s proximity to transportation hubs makes exploring Tokyo and its surrounding areas easy.

  January 24-26, 3 Nights
  Hotel Kanra Kyoto (or similar)
  Hotel Kanra Kyoto is a stylish and contemporary hotel that seamlessly blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort. Located near the heart of Kyoto, it features spacious rooms with wooden accents, offering a serene atmosphere. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a Kanra Spa treatment, a cozy lounge, and restaurants serving seasonal, locally sourced cuisine and wood-fired kiln dishes. The hotel’s thoughtful design and attentive service create a relaxing haven for travelers looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto.

• Helpful Information for 2026 Japan Winter Kyoto Photography Extension I

  PASSPORT and VISA

  US citizens must have a valid passport and an onward/return ticket for tourist/business “visa-free” stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for the entire time you’re staying in Japan, and one blank page is required for the entry stamp. Please visit the US Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs for the most up-to-date entry requirements.

  VACCINATIONS

  There are no vaccinations required to enter Japan.

  CAMERA GEAR

  We’ll send a list of suggested camera gear to bring, and Dan will phone each guest to discuss gear before departure time.

  CURRENCY

  Japanese yen

  WEATHER

  In Kyoto, the average high this time of year is around 50°F, while the average low is 35 °F. It’s very warm inside buildings, so bring layers.

  ADDITIONAL NOTES

  The Japanese are very quiet and reserved—a very giving group of people. There is not an actual word for “no” in their language; they find it too impolite to say. Japan is very clean and safe.

  Domestic flights to and from Kyoto (via Haneda) are included in your trip. They are commercial flights/larger planes, so there are not usually any carry-on issues. There are two airports in Tokyo: Haneda and Narita. Both are international. Make sure you fly into Haneda (HND).

  Have a question?

  Have a question about this tour? We're happy to answer any queries you may have.

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• Testimonials from Natural Exposures' Explorers

  • "If you ever want to travel to another country and you want to go first class, travel with Natural Exposures. They are number one in showing their guests the best time ever in the classiest way. I would recommend Natural Exposures Tours to everyone. If you want to go in style, go with NE!"

    Michelle Duggan, Massachusetts

  • "Tanya and Dan’s logistic skills provide a seamless photo tour where one can truly enjoy the experience. With unlimited photographic opportunities Dan’s instruction has taken my photography to a higher level."

    Linda Henry, Oregon

  • "Tanya/Dan are a dynamic duo! There are not enough adjectives in the dictionary to cover the entire breath of their combined strengths. Fair, attention to detail, supportive of everyone’s needs, ability to get things done, did I mention down right good people, and on and on. We hope there will be a trip in the future that we could take advantage of."

    Corbett Alley, Arizona

  • "I just wanted to again thank you for a wonderful week of photography and relaxation away from the office. It was a really a good group."

    Sue Wolfe, Texas

  • "Dan and Tanya offer the best photo tour experience in the industry."

    Mark Pemberton, California

  • "Dan and Tanya are the nicest people you can travel with."

    Bob Ross, California

  • "Dan and Tanya are so caring of each person's needs and desires."

    Bev Graham, California

  • "Dan and Tanya are the best tour guides I have experienced so far. Overall wonderful trips!"

    Pat Dillon, California

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