Japan photography by Christian Del Rosario
Jewels of Japan
March 26 - April 7, 2027
An amazing 13-days photo & cultural trip
WITH CHRISTIAN DEL ROSARIO
Renowned Travel Photographer/Artist
Your opportunity to experience Japan through the eyes of Christian del Rosario. The country will be at its most enchanting as we explore the country’s must‑see highlights during sakura season. This group adventure blends culture, cuisine, and iconic sights with a relaxed, photo‑fun twist—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Japan without any hassle. Led by renowned photographer Christian del Rosario, you’ll have the chance to pick up optional photo tips while Christian and his team capture beautiful moments of you throughout the journey. Return home with unforgettable memories and stunning images that let you relive your Japan experience for years to come.
THIS TOUR IS OPEN TO A MAXIMUM OF 26 PARTICIPANTS ONLY PER GROUP. SO RESERVE QUICKLY.
ITINERARY
( MAYBE SUBJECT TO MINOR CHANGES )
DAY 1 - Arrivals tokyo
Arrive at Tokyo Haneda Airport as per your preferred flight. Your trip starts the moment you step out of the airport, as your private transfer will take you to your hotel. In the evening, we will have our welcome dinner.
Welcome to Japan!
DAY 2 & 3 - Tokyo
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel to get you ready for a full day of exploring. Tokyo is a city where pop culture is turned all the way up, and traditions are rich and long-kept. Japan’s old traditions and new technology coexist in a lever of newfound harmony. We will visit iconic landmarks of the city, such as the Imperial Palace, Asakusa shrine, and Meiji Jinggu. But we will also experience the modern side of the city through observing the Shibuya crossing, visiting the Ginza and Akihabara district.
DAY 4 - Hakone
Today, we will leave the hustle and bustle of the city and head out to Hakone. This scenic town is popular both for local and international visitors who want to escape Tokyo. Famous for its hot springs, natural beauty, and the chance to see Mount Fuji across the lake. Absorb the breathtaking views as we take the cable car at Owakudani crater, followed by a cruise over the blue waters of Lake Ashi. In the evening, you can wind down and enjoy the onsen (hot spring) at your hotel.
DAY 5 & 6 - Matsumoto & Takayama
As we make our way to Takayama, we will make a stop at Matsumoto to marvel at the Matsumoto Castle. Also known as the “Crow Castle” because of its striking black exterior. Later, you’ll step back in time in the rural Edo-period town of Takayama, nestled in the Japanese Alps. Well known to the locals for its connection to sake, this is the perfect place to gather for a visit to one of Japan’s 200-year-old sake breweries. Afterward, experience a true Japanese epicurean treat.
DAY 7 & 8 - Shirakawago & Kanazawa
Today, embrace the unique charms of Shirakawa-go (UNESCO). Hidden away in the mountain, this harmonious village is famous for its gassho-zukuri-style houses - thatched-rooftops designed to resemble two hands joined in prayer. Journey to Kanazawa, the origin of gold-leaf making since the 16th century. Visit the Omicho fish market, and then onto the beauty of Japan’s most stunning gardens, where more than 25 acres of absolute beauty awaits you at Kenroku-En - Garden of Six Qualities. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving regional specialties.
DAY 9 & 10 - Kyoto
The former Imperial capital of Japan is now one of the nation’s top cosmopolitan cities. At the same time, Kyoto’s connection with its past is strong; you won’t need to look far to see one of its 2,000 temples and shrines. We will visit Fushimi Inari Taisha for a tour of the most revered shrine of Inari. Follow the spectacular rows of orange toriithat weave through the forest. Visit the home of the first Shogun, Nijo Castle (UNESCO), and see intricate woodcarvings, wall paintings, and the Ninomaru Garden. Also, the iconic bamboo forest of Arashiyama will be part of our itinerary.
To get hands-on experience, workshops on Japanese crafts will be given. You will come home with new skills and a tangible item to remember this experience.
Day 11 - Day trip to Hiroshima
All aboard the Shinkansen bullet train to Hiroshima. Upon arrival, board a ferry for the short trip to Miyajima Island, or “Shrine Island” (UNESCO). Afterwards, head into Hiroshima city to visit the Peace Memorial Park, and pause to see the ruined Atomic Dome (UNESCO). Reflect at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. As this long and moving day comes to a close, return to Kyoto by the Shinkansen bullet train.
Day 12 - Kyoto
Our last day in Japan will be a day to reflect on our wonderful journey. In the morning, we will spend time with a monk at Koshoji Temple, where you’ll have the opportunity to chant and meditate with them. Afterwards, take part in the ancient art of the tea ceremony and learn about its importance in Japanese culture. Take this rare opportunity to learn from and speak to the monk about their daily life. This afternoon, spend some time relaxing or set out to explore Kyoto on your own.
We will end our day together during a special farewell dinner and a maiko show.
day 13 - final departure
After breakfast, we will say goodbye, and you will be transferred to Kansai Airport (KIX) for your journey back home.
DETAILS
TRIP Price: $13000 per person (based on double occupancy)
w/ optional $2000Single Supplement ( Single room of your own )
Admin fee (when paying by credit card) 3.25%
Tour Price Includes
• Hotel Accommodation - 12 nights room accommodations are provided asvindicated on this itinerary. Accommodations are per person, based on two persons sharing a twin-bedded room or king room with a private bath
• Tours and Sightseeing
• Private airport transfers and transportation throughout the tours
• All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners
• Professional photos taken by Christian. A private gallery web page will be available for all guests after the trip, where all high-resolution digital copies of the photos will be available for download and use by all guests. Photos will be in digital format. Prints are not included.
• Hands-on photography coaching throughout the tour by Christian and his assistants.
• Shared and limited use of some of Christian’s camera equipment so you can take some super awesome photos!
• Bottled water daily
• Taxes - all local taxes and hotel taxes are included in the cost of the tour
• All Entrance Fees to sites as listed in the itinerary
• All Fuel Costs
• Full-time Support from our ground operations team.
• Professional, Certified, Fluent-English Speaking Guide throughout the tour
• Visa application assistance
Tour Price Does Not Include
• Gratuities to local guides are not included. Guide tips of $500in cash per guest will be added. To be collected upon arrival in Japan.
• International flights arriving in Tokyo (NRT or HND) and departing from Osaka (KIX). Together with our partner, we offer assistance in finding and booking your international flights. Please mention this at the time of booking to make use of our special package quote.
• Travel insurance: Please note that it is mandatory to have travel insurance when joining this trip. We can recommend you on a few options, but the choice will be up to you. For more information, please head to our terms & conditions page.
• Excess baggage charges
• Laundry or any other item of a personal nature not specifically mentioned herein.
• Alcoholic drinks during meals
• Soft drinks and alcoholic drinks outside of meals.
Payments & Cancellation
AN INITIAL DEPOSIT OF $5000 IS REQUIRED TO IMMEDIATELY RESERVE AND SECURE A SPOT . THERE ARE ONLY 26 SPOTS AVAILABLE.
THIS DEPOSIT IS FULLY REFUNDABLE IF CANCELLED ON OR BEFORE AUGUST 30, 2026. AFTER AUGUST 30, 2026, THIS DEPOSIT IS NOT REFUNDABLE.
FULL PAYMENT IS REQUIRED ON OR BEFORE OCT 31, 2026. Plus 3.25% admin fee if paying by credit card.
PREFERRED PAYMENT METHOD IS DIRECT BANK TRANSFER TO CHRISTIAN’S BUSINESS BANK ACCOUNT.
GUESTS CANCELING PRIOR TO OCT 31, 2026 WILL RECEIVE A FULL REFUND LESS THE INITIAL $5000 DEPOSIT
GUESTS CANCELING PRIOR TO DEC 31, 2026 WILL RECEIVE A 50% REFUND OF ALL MONIES ABOVE THE INITIAL DEPOSIT
NO REFUND ON OR AFTER DEC 31, 2026
Travel Documents
All travelers need a passport valid for at least six months AFTER the date of entering Japan.
Your passport MUST BE VALID through at least 27 SEPTEMBER 2027, or you must renew before travel. Please note that this rule is enforced by JAPAN.
Got a question?
Please contact Christian and his team via email at tripswithxtian@gmail.com
Or sign up and join our discovery call to learn more about this trip
THIS TOUR IS OPEN TO 26 PARTICIPANTS ONLY PER GROUP. SO RESERVE QUICKLY.
Christian’s commitment to giving back to help animals
As many of you know, I am very passionate about animals. As my way of giving back, I have committed to giving 10% of any profits made from this tour to my chosen animal conservation causes all over Africa. This will include, but not limited to, donations to Elephant and Rhino protection programs to help stop poaching and killing of these animals. I will also donate to help educational programs around Africa that aid in helping educate African communities to promote harmonious existence between their communities and the animals. By being a participant in these tours, you are also, in turn, a participant in helping me protect these beautiful animals and the people that live amongst them. So THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart.
I can’t wait to share with you this amazing experience!!!
