WILD JAPAN
Japanese macaques, black bears, cherry blossom and shrines are the focus of this 7-day tour.
Already planning a trip to Japan? Come spend a few days with me on this photo tour!
Join award-winning photographer Paul Alistair Collins for a thrilling tour to the Japanese Alps - where macaques, black bears, flying squirrels, and shrines in seasonal colour are the focus. Join for the full tour or, if you've already got a trip to Japan in the pipeline, join me for just a day or two at our base in Karuizawa!
We'll stay in a traditional Edo cottage, giving you the authentic experience of rural Japan.
AT A GLANCE
JAPAN 4 - 8 10 DAYS
April 20 - 29 2026
£3,495 What's Included?
September 2026 - Dates On Request
£3,495 What's Included?
April 20 - 29 2027
Details TBA
Tour Leader: Paul Alistair Collins
Deposit: £1000; balance due 3 months prior to departure.
Meeting: At arrival airport; details to follow.
Are you interested in something similar? Send an enquiry and I’ll reply soon to discuss further.
HIGHLIGHTS
Stayin a traditional 17th century Edo cottage in the Japanese Alps, at peak time for cherry-blossom or autumn colour
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Macaques bathing in hot springs
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See endemic Asiastic Black Bear, Giant Flying Squirrel, and Serow on the slopes of Mt Asama
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Visit remote shrines and temples that are off the tourist trail
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Expert 1-on-1 tuition from award-winning photographer Paul Alistair Collins, with image editing sessions and feedback
ITINERARY
The following is a proposed itinerary, subject to animal activity and weather conditions.
COMING SOON
If there is no itinerary available, please get in touch for a PDF itinerary.
LOCATION
A beautifully restored 17th-century Edo farmhouse, once home to generations of miso farmers, will be our home for the tour., giving you an authetic taste of Japan.
Nestled in a tranquil valley in the heart of the Japanese Alps, this traditional lodging offers a deep cultural immersion and breathtaking views of mountains shrouded in cherry blossom or autumn maple. We will be well placed to visit macaque hot springs, forest shrines, and the historic Nakasendo trail, once traveled by samurai.
WHAT MAKES THIS TOUR FOR YOU?
For this tour, we will be based in the stunning Japanese Alps, an area that many first time visitors overlook - yet it is here where some of the most authentic experiences can be had.
With expert photographic guidance from award-winning photographer Paul Alistair Collins, we'll ensure you capture truly unique images. We are proud to be staying at a renovated miso farmer cottage, with British Japanese hosts who know this area more intimately than anyone. We believe no one knows a land better than those who’ve lived there and travelled its length and breadth, and we will help you make the most of every opportunity.
WHAT'S INCLUDED?
✓ Services of professional photography leader and local wildlife guide/tracker
✓ All entrance fees and permits to the locations visited
✓ Evening image review and edit sessions (optional)
✓ Welcome presentation & materials on local fauna and sites
✓ Accommodation at a traditional Edo lodge
✓ All meals listed on the itinerary
✓ Airport pick-up and drop-off
✓ Ground transportation
✗ Return flights to Tokyo (I will recommend the best flights upon contact)
✗ Any Visa charges or airport taxes
✗ Personal and cancellation insurance*
✗ Any meals not specified; personal snacks, beverages and alcohol
✗ Personal expenses
✗ Laundry
✗ Any additional overnight stays or excursions
Have any other questions? Check out our Tour FAQs below.
EXCLUSIVE
ACCESS
Gain access to private locations where other tours don't go - and capture unique shots that no one else is getting.
INTIMATE
ENCOUNTERS
Enjoy regular sightings of our target species, in diverse light and weather conditions - allowing you to build a rich portfolio of stunning images.
DEEP
IMMERSION
Develop your vision at your own pace - with thoughtfully curated itineraries, expert guiding, small groups and 1-on-1 learning.
For full terms and conditions, including our cancellation policy and personal travel insurance, please click to see the Terms & Conditions
* To take part in our trip, you must be covered by adequate insurance for its entire duration. The insurance must cover for cancellation, medical and emergency expenses. We recommend insurance against damage or loss of baggage, camera equipment, instruments and personal items.