Day 1 - October 14, 2020, Wednesday

Meet and greet at bustling Tokyo Station at 9 am (place inside the station to be announced).  After meeting, we immediately depart on the shinkansen, taking us to Joetsu where we will enjoy our sushi lunch, said to be the Japan's freshest.  Then we will sidle over to Takada Castle and its palatial grounds.  The first day's focus will be on architectural and street photography around Takada Samurai Castle.  Afterwards, a drive full of conversation regarding the days photos as we return to our lodgings at the Shibu Onsen.  Once checking in is completed, you will be treated to a lavish and photo-worthy Japanese meal.  Before retiring for the evening, your JDS Photography Workshop Guide will discuss the next day's shooting options in preparation for the snow monkeys.

Day 2 - October 15, Thursday

Rise early and have a fulfilling breakfast and then prepare to photograph Japan’s Snow Monkeys.  They are an irresistible species for visiting photographers, and your JDS Photography Workshop Leader has over 21 years experience visiting the monkeys and knows dozens of individual monkeys by name, rank in each of the three troops, and how mating relationships have evolved over time.  After working with your JDS Photography Workshop Leader, you will understand why the Japanese Macaques are considered unique.  Your photos will capture the natural beauty of Japan’s premier primate.

Day 3 - October 16, Friday

After breakfast and checking out of our lodgings at Shibu Onsen, our next photo opportunities will be in Myoko Kogen; it is the best time to see the spectacular view of autumn colors in the mountains at 1300-1600m above sea level in central Japan, especially spell-binding is Naena no Taki.   Autumn in Japan means the leaves of the maple trees slowly transform from a beautiful yellow-orange to red creating a symphony of images leaving you awestruck, and your photos will represent this.  In the evening, Apallusion 2018 awaits us.  This is the world's largest outdoor Illumination spectacles on our planet using a staggering 1.6 million LED lights and the JDS team will guide you a capturing this light illuminations laser show.   Upon returning to our lodgings, you may enjoy the milky white and mineral rich hot springs.  After recharging your body and spirit, the night sky will unfurl its myriad astrological treasures.  You will turn your camera to the celestial bodies and enjoy astrophotography before laying down to rest.

Day 4 - October 17, Saturday

Before breakfast at our lodgings in the Tsubame Myoko Onsen, you can stroll the alpine area and enjoy the health benefits from the crisp and refreshing air.  Through the years, there have also been several eyewitness reports of yetis in the area, so who knows what your morning exploration will yield?   As schedule permits, your JDS Guide will help you snap a few more memorable photos of the snow monkeys in their local habitat before completing your JDS adventure, then driving you to Joetsu and saying farewell as your shinkansen speeds your return to Tokyo.

Why Choose This Photography Tour/Workshop?

• All levels of photographers are welcome.
• Any type of camera is welcome: digital, pocket camera, scoping with an iPhone, large format, and others.
• Professional Photo Instruction available when requested (included in tour cost).
• Opportunity to photograph cultural and architectural masterpieces.
• Activity level varying from leisurely to moderate.
• Provided transportation: Sports Utility Vehicle with Business Class Seating.
• Small group size (minimum two people; maximum eight) means quality, in-depth time with your workshop leader.
• All questions are welcome and encouraged throughout your JDS adventure!
• During each morning and evening meal, your JDS photo workshop leader will discuss with you and the group the best shooting options with weather conditions in mind so each tour member will be well prepared to take spectacular photos. 
• No precious moments are wasted in needless seminars
• 2020 is the 23rd year that your workshop photography instructor has lead workshops & tours throughout Japan.

Tour Cost: ¥330,000 (Approximately USD $3000) per person (based on double occupancy) in 3 - 5 star accommodations with western style toiletries, and all breakfasts and dinners included.  All group ground transportation will be in sports utility vehicles with business class seating.  All entrance fees and all donations at temples and shrines are included in tour cost.  Also included is professional photography instruction as well as a detailed itinerary with clothing and gear recommendations.

Single Supplement: Add ¥66,000 (Approximately USD $600)