Japan im Focus - New Paths: North
Oct 18 - 30, 2026 | Photography tour with Marcel Bisig
Northern Japan reveals itself as more open, expansive, and often quieter than the rest of the country—qualities that make it especially rewarding for photography. This route leads through the regions of Tohoku and Hokkaido, featuring mountain landscapes, rugged coastlines, onsen towns, and cities such as Aomori, Sendai, Hakodate, and Sapporo. Striking nature, culinary experiences, and regional culture shape the rhythm of this journey.
Between landscapes, temple sites, rural areas, and northern cities, images emerge that convey space, clarity, and character. This journey is designed for those who wish to experience Japan beyond its familiar visual narratives.
As a photographer and experienced traveler in Japan, I guide you to carefully selected locations and support you in developing your photographic skills while capturing the raw beauty of Japan’s north.
2026: 🟢 0 / 5 spots booked
2027: 🟢 0 / 5 spots booked
Price per person:
CHF 5,250.00 (approx. USD 6,700.00) shared double room
CHF 6,050.00 (approx. USD 7,750.00) single room
Included services:
Tour guidance and photography coaching
Accommodation
Dinner and breakfast in ryokan hotels (3 nights)
Rental car including fuel, toll, and parking fees (Tokyo through Aomori)
High-speed train tickets between cities (Aomori to Sapporo)
Not included:
International flights to Tokyo and from Sapporo
(approx. CHF 900.00 – CHF 1,300.00, economy class, one stop, subject to change)Meals, local transportation, and entrance fees
(approx. CHF 600.00, subject to change)
Non-photographing partners are very welcome. The route is designed to be equally enjoyable without a camera.
This tour can also be arranged as a private group experience upon request. I would be happy to provide you with a tailored offer.
All images displayed have been created exclusively by Marcel Bisig. I am the author of all photographic content (except images marked in red) and hold full copyright. Any use, reproduction, or distribution of these images is not permitted. Program changes or adjustments may occur at any time without prior notice. All tours are covered by public liability insurance for Swiss tour operators with AXA Versicherungen AG. This insurance covers damages that may arise from the professional activities of the organizer.
Itinerary
Oct 18, 2026
Departure from your home airport to Tokyo
I am happy to provide flight recommendations upon request.
Oct 19, 2026
Welcome to Japan!
After your individual arrival at our group hotel, we head to the Bunkyo Civic Center in the late afternoon for a spectacular view over Tokyo.
After sunset, we continue to Shinjuku, where we dive into Tokyo’s sea of lights for the first time.
To round off the day, we get to know each other over a shared dinner at an izakaya (traditional Japanese pub).
1 night in Tokyo
Tokyo
Oct 20, 2026
Early in the morning, we pick up our rental car and leave the Tokyo metropolitan area heading towards Nikko. The region is known for its dense forests, impressive temple and shrine complexes, and the unique connection between nature and spirituality. The richly decorated sanctuaries, set among towering cedar forests, offer striking photographic opportunities where light, shadow, and intricate architecture interact beautifully.
In the afternoon, our route continues into the mountainous landscape of Nikko National Park, taking us to the scenic Lake Chuzenji and the impressive Kegon Falls.
Towards the evening, we continue to Kinugawa Onsen, where we stay in a luxurious onsen ryokan. The rooms feature private onsen baths, allowing for relaxation in a calm and exclusive atmosphere. We enjoy a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner, rounding off the day with a refined culinary experience.
1 night in Kinugawa Onsen
Nikko · Kinugawa Onsen
In the morning, we visit the historic village of Ōuchi-juku, where traditional thatched-roof houses offer a fascinating glimpse into rural Japan of the past. The well-preserved main street, lined with old inns and small shops, provides a wealth of atmospheric scenes and compelling perspectives.
Afterwards, we continue to Aizu-Wakamatsu, a city with a strong historical character. During our visit to the striking Tsuruga Castle, an important symbol of the region’s samurai heritage, the Sazaedō Temple, known for its unique spiral wooden structure, we capture a diverse range of photographic impressions.
Towards the evening, we head to Lake Inawashiro, where, with views of Mount Bandai, we create atmospheric landscape images in the warm light of the day’s end.
We spend the night in another high-quality onsen ryokan in Bandai Atami Onsen, deliberately located away from larger tourist crowds. The rooms also feature private onsen baths, allowing for relaxation in a quiet and personal setting. For dinner, we enjoy a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal, rounding off the day with a refined culinary experience.
1 night in Bandai Atami Onsen
Aizu-Wakamatsu
Oct 21, 2026
Today, we begin with a visit to the Zuihoden Mausoleum in Sendai, the largest city in Tohoku. The richly decorated resting place of the famous feudal lord Date Masamune is set within a peaceful cedar forest.
From here, we continue to Matsushima Bay, one of Japan’s most scenic coastal regions. In Shiogama, we board a boat that takes us through the island-dotted bay to Matsushima. Upon arrival, there is an opportunity to enjoy a fresh sashimi lunch at the local fish market.
As we explore the area on foot, new perspectives of the island landscape reveal themselves at every turn. The nearby Zuigan-ji Temple, with its understated halls and pine-lined paths, allows for calm and balanced compositions. From a well-known viewpoint, we take in a sweeping panorama over the bay, especially atmospheric in the warm light of sunset.
In the evening, we return to Sendai, where we enjoy dinner together and try the local specialty gyūtan (grilled beef tongue).
1 night in Sendai
Sendai · Matsushima Bay
Oct 22, 2026
Oct 23, 2026
Early in the morning, we visit Yamadera Temple, spectacularly set along a steep mountainside. A series of stone steps leads us past rock formations, ancient trees, and historic temple buildings, revealing impressive views over the surrounding landscape at every turn.
Afterwards, we continue to Mount Zao, where we enjoy a relaxed walk through forests painted in autumn colors. The warm tones of maple and beech trees create a particularly beautiful setting.
In the late afternoon, we arrive at the world-famous Ginzan Onsen. This historic hot spring town, with its traditional wooden buildings, reveals its full photographic charm especially in the evening light. However, we deliberately do not stay overnight in Ginzan, as the area has become quite touristy and accommodations often fall short of expectations.
Instead, we continue to the nearby town of Mogami, where we stay in a luxurious onsen ryokan. The rooms once again feature private onsen baths, allowing for relaxation in a calm and exclusive atmosphere. For dinner, we enjoy a traditional multi-course kaiseki meal, rounding off the day with a refined culinary experience away from the crowds.
1 night in Mogami
Mount Zao · Yamadera · Ginzan Onsen
Photo by Noriko Yamamoto / Flickr – CC BY 2.0
Oct 24, 2026
In the morning, we first stop at Naruko Gorge, where a particularly striking scene awaits: a train emerging from a tunnel within the autumn-colored forest and shortly after crossing the bridge over the gorge.
Afterwards, we visit Kakunodate, known for having one of the best-preserved samurai districts in Japan. Along wide, tree-lined streets stand historic residences with black wooden fences and traditional gardens, offering a glimpse into samurai life during the Edo period.
We then continue to Morioka, where we begin with a visit to Nanshoso, a historic samurai residence with a beautifully maintained garden that provides a quiet insight into traditional living culture. Nearby, the area around Yugaose Bridge offers scenic compositions along the river, with Mount Iwate rising in the background.
For dinner, we experience a local specialty: wanko soba. Small servings of buckwheat noodles are continuously refilled in a traditional style, those who manage to eat 100 bowls are playfully considered a “true wanko soba master” in Morioka.
1 night in Morioka
Kakunodate · Morioka
Oct 25, 2026
Today features the earliest start of the journey. Before dawn, we set out to capture the sunrise at Cape Kitayamazaki, where steep cliffs and the open sea create a dramatic and powerful setting.
Afterwards, we continue to Miyako. Here, we visit the Taro Kanko Hotel and the massive tsunami seawall, both of which stand as reminders of the events of 2011. Nearby, Jodogahama Beach, known for its bright rock formations and clear water, is one of the region’s most striking coastal landscapes.
Around midday, we arrive in Hachinohe and begin with a visit to a traditional sake brewery, gaining insight into the production of Japan’s iconic rice wine.
In the early evening, we head to Kabushima Shrine, located on a small headland and known for its exceptionally large colony of black-tailed gulls. Thousands of birds nest around the shrine, shaping the unique atmosphere of this place, often in such numbers that visitors come prepared with umbrellas.
To conclude the day, we explore the Miroku Yokocho district, a lively network of narrow alleyways filled with small bars and food stalls, illuminated by warm lantern light.
1 night in Hachinohe
Miyako · Kitayamazaki · Hachinohe
Oct 26, 2026
In the morning, we leave Hachinohe and head towards Lake Towada. Set within a volcanic caldera, the lake is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the region, especially in autumn, when the surrounding forests are painted in rich, vibrant colors.
We then continue to Hirosaki, a region known as the center of Japan’s apple production. At the Apple Park, we experience apple cultivation firsthand and gain insight into the extensive orchards that shape the landscape, particularly during the autumn season. Afterwards, we visit Hirosaki Castle and Iwakiyama Shrine, located at the foot of Mount Iwaki and holding significant spiritual importance in the region.
If conditions allow and the mountain road remains open, we continue towards Mount Iwaki. The scenic drive leads us into the mountains, offering expansive views over the surrounding region and providing a memorable conclusion to the day.
In the evening, we enjoy a shared dinner in Aomori, featuring fresh sushi and sashimi. Thanks to its location between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, the city is renowned for its exceptionally high-quality seafood and is considered one of the best places in northern Japan to enjoy freshly caught fish.
2 nights in Aomori
Lake Towada · Hirosaki · Aomori
Oct 27, 2026
In the morning, we follow the scenic coastal road to Cape Tappi, where on a clear day wide views open across the Tsugaru Strait all the way to Hokkaido. The rugged landscape and vast openness give this place an almost end-of-the-world feeling.
Afterwards, we visit Takayama Inari Shrine, where numerous red torii gates wind through the landscape, creating a striking and dynamic subject. We then make a short stop at nearby Ashino-Koen Station, a small railway station with a nostalgic charm.
In the late afternoon, we return to Aomori, drop off our rental car, and explore several highlights of the city, including the Aomori Prefectural Tourism Center ASPAM, the Nebuta Warasse Museum with its impressive festival floats, and the A-Factory by the harbor. These locations combine contemporary architecture, regional culture, and a maritime atmosphere, bringing the day to a well-rounded close.
Cape Tappi · Takayama Inari · Aomori
Oct 28, 2026
In the morning, we leave Tohoku by train and travel towards Hakodate, passing through the Seikan Undersea Tunnel to Hokkaido. The journey itself is part of the experience and marks a noticeable transition into the far north of Japan.
Around midday, there is an opportunity to visit Lucky Pierrot, a local cult burger chain. In the afternoon, we focus on Hakodate’s photographic highlights, including the star-shaped fortress of Goryōkaku, the historic harbor district with the Kanemori Red Brick Warehouses, and the iconic Hachimanzaka slope, which opens up towards the sea.
We end the day with a view from Mount Hakodate, where, at sunset, a sweeping panorama unfolds over the city and the surrounding waters, considered one of the three most beautiful night views in Japan.
In the evening, we dine at a high-quality kaiten sushi restaurant, where sushi and sashimi are served on a traditional conveyor belt, prepared with exceptionally fresh ingredients from the waters around Hokkaido.
1 night in Hakodate
Hakodate
Oct 29, 2026
In the morning, we travel by train for around three and a half hours to Sapporo. The route leads through Hokkaido’s wide-open landscapes, offering occasional views of coastal stretches and small towns along the way.
From Sapporo, we take an excursion to the nearby port city of Otaru. The town is known for its historic canal, red-brick warehouses, and long trading history. A walk along the waterfront and through the small streets around the canal reveals Otaru’s charming and maritime character.
In the afternoon, we return to Sapporo and head up Mount Moiwa, where a sweeping view over the city unfolds, especially atmospheric at dusk, as the city lights gradually begin to glow. As a photographic finale to the journey, we explore the vibrant Susukino district, known for its neon lights and the iconic Nikka Whisky sign.
For our final evening together, we enjoy dinner at the Sapporo Beer Museum, featuring jingisukan, Hokkaido’s famous grilled lamb specialty, accompanied by freshly brewed Sapporo beer.
1 night in Sapporo
Otaru · Sapporo
Sapporo
Oct 30, 2026
Departure or individual onward Journey
Registration form
The registration is non-binding and serves solely as an initial point of contact. The booking only becomes final upon signing the contract.
I would also be happy to discuss any further questions and details with you over the phone.
I look forward to hearing from you.
