Join me on my annual cross-country cherry blossom photography workshop, where we uncover Japan’s most breathtaking and lesser-known sakura spots. This year, our journey took us from Aomori to Tokyo, culminating in the stunning landscapes of Hakone—a historic onsen retreat cherished since the Edo period.

For nearly three decades, I have ventured along Japan’s ancient pilgrimage routes, capturing the essence of its culture, aesthetics, and untouched beauty. These routes, largely undiscovered by Western tourists, offer an authentic experience far from the usual crowds. This exclusivity makes them a key highlight of both my Essence of Autumn Leaves and Essence of Spring Cherry Blossom photo tours.

Hakone is home to various cherry blossom species, including the delicate mamezakura (Prunus incisa), also known as the Fuji cherry blossom. Unlike the more common Somei Yoshino (Prunus yedoensis), these blossoms are slightly smaller, with fragile leaves that enhance their ephemeral beauty.

During our workshop, we captured breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji framed by Lake Ashinoko from the highlands, followed by an evening visit to a hidden Zen meditation forest. Here, an ancient Buddhist sanctuary houses masterfully carved stone sculptures of monks and nuns, each expressing unique emotions and gestures. Over 20 years of photographing this site, I continue to discover new angles and play with changing light conditions.

While Hakone sees heavy tourist traffic, as a seasoned local, I know how to navigate the area strategically to avoid crowds. By carefully timing our visits and exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, we ensure an immersive and tranquil photography experience.

Whether you’re an avid photographer or a traveler seeking Japan’s untouched beauty, this workshop offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience spring in Hakone like never before.