Japan in Focus - New Paths: West
Nov 17 - 28, 2026 | Photography tour with Marcel Bisig
This journey takes you through western Japan. A region rich in cultural depth, historic sites, and diverse landscapes. We travel between temples and shrines, and visit traditional locations such as Mount Koya, the Kumano region, the Tottori Sand Dunes, and small harbor towns off the beaten path.
The west offers a unique density of photographic subjects: spiritual sites, established cities, gardens, onsen villages, and everyday scenes that are ideal for storytelling photography. This route is designed for travelers who want to experience Japan in its cultural diversity and deepen their photographic skills.
As an experienced photographer and Japan traveler, I will guide you to unique photo locations. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, I will support you in developing your photographic skills and capturing the beauty of Japan. With over a year of cumulative travel experience in Japan, I know the country and its culture in all its facets, making me the ideal companion for your photographic journey of discovery.
The group size is limited to 3 to 5 participants.
2026: 🟢 0 / 5 spots booked
2027: 🟢 0 / 5 spots booked
Price per person:
CHF 5,100.00 (approx. USD 6,500.00) shared double room
CHF 5,900.00 (approx. USD 7,500.00) 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 costs
High-speed train tickets between cities
Not included:
Flights to/from Osaka Kansai Airport
(approx. CHF 900.00 – CHF 1,200.00 Economy Class, 1 stopover, subject to change)Meals, local transport, and entrance fees
(approx. CHF 500.00 – CHF 800.00, subject to change)
Non-photographing partners are welcome as well. The route is designed to be enjoyable even without a camera.
The tour can also be booked as a private group trip upon request. I would be happy to create a customized offer for you.
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
Nov 17, 2026
Departure from your home airport to Osaka
I am happy to provide flight recommendations upon request.
Welcome to Japan!
In the afternoon, we arrive at Kansai International Airport and, after picking up our rental car, head directly to nearby Wakayama.
Our first photographic highlight awaits at Okunoin on Mount Kōyasan. Thousands of lanterns illuminate the surroundings in a soft, warm glow, creating an almost meditative atmosphere. Here, we capture striking images of light, depth, and stillness, an ideal introduction to the visual language of this journey.
1 night in Wakayama
Kansai Airport · Wakayama
Nov 18, 2026
In the morning, we visit Seiganto-ji Temple, which, together with Nachi Waterfall, forms one of Japan’s most iconic scenes. The powerful combination of spirituality and nature, paired with the waterfall’s strong vertical lines, creates an image that is deeply symbolic of Japan while offering exceptional opportunities for bold, dynamic compositions.
We then make a short stop at the rice terraces of Maruyama Senmaida, where landscape, structure, and rhythm come together in striking panoramic views.
In the afternoon, we arrive at Ise Grand Shrine, Japan’s most important Shinto shrine. Its understated architecture and natural surroundings invite a calm, minimalist visual approach. We end the day at sunset at the Meoto Iwa, the so-called “Wedded Rocks,” where sea, stone, and light create a uniquely symbolic atmosphere.
1 night in Ise
Seiganto-ji · Ise
Nov 19, 2026
Around midday, we reach Daihonzan Eihei-ji, one of Japan’s most important Zen monasteries. Its refined architecture, wooden structures, and soft, subdued light create ideal conditions for minimalist and contemplative photography.
Afterwards, we visit the Echizen Daibutsu, whose monumental scale allows for striking contrasts and powerful perspectives.
In the late afternoon, we arrive in the port city of Tsuruga, where we end the day with calm, atmospheric shots by the water.
1 night in Tsuruga
Eihei-ji · Echizen Daibutsu · Tsuruga
Nov 20, 2026
Nov 21, 2026
In the morning, we drive to Ine, a small fishing village known for its unique boathouses built directly along the water. The funaya reflect in the calm sea, offering perfect subjects for both documentary and graphic photography.
In the afternoon, we visit nearby Amanohashidate, where the pine-covered sandbar invites beautiful landscape compositions.
In the evening, we unwind in Kinosaki Onsen, staying overnight in a traditional ryokan and enjoying the local bathhouses. We also indulge in a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner, providing a refined culinary experience and a moment to relax and recharge.
1 night in Kinosaki Onsen
Ine Funaya · Amanohashidate · Kinosaki Onsen
In the morning, we visit the Tottori Sand Dunes, a landscape unique in Japan where sand, wind, and sea come together. The clean shapes and ever-changing light conditions allow for abstract and minimalist compositions.
Later, we explore the impressive Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park. A particular highlight is the view of the majestic Mount Daisen, whose silhouette bears a striking resemblance to the iconic Mount Fuji.
In the evening, we arrive in Yonago, a quiet coastal town that offers a relaxed setting for atmospheric shots by the sea.
1 night in Yonago
Tottori · Yonago
Nov 22, 2026
Nov 23, 2026
In the late morning, we explore Ritsurin Garden in Takamatsu, one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape gardens. Carefully composed sightlines, water features, and plant arrangements offer a wide variety of photographic opportunities.
In the afternoon, we visit Kotohira Shrine, where its long stone stairways and historic setting create strong lines and compelling perspectives. We end the day at Takaya Shrine, perched high above the surrounding landscape, where we capture the sunset.
Afterwards, we return to Kotohira and stay in a luxurious onsen ryokan. The rooms feature private onsen baths, allowing for relaxation in exclusive atmosphere. We also enjoy a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner, rounding off the day with a refined culinary experience.
1 night in Kotohira
Takamatsu · Kotohira · Takaya Shrine
Nov 24, 2026
On our journey west across Shikoku, we first make a stop at Maegami-ji Temple, one of the oldest temples in the region.
Our next stop is the charming town of Uchiko, known for its well-preserved historic district with traditional merchant houses and workshops, offering a glimpse into Japan’s past. We then continue to Shimonada Station, one of the most photogenic train stations in Japan, set right by the sea.
In the late afternoon, we arrive in Matsuyama, where we explore the beautiful Matsuyama Castle, offering sweeping views over the city.
To close the day, we photograph Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring bathhouse, before unwinding in our onsen ryokan.
1 night in Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama
Uchiko · Shimonada · Matsuyama
In the morning, we visit Kōsan-ji Temple, an extraordinary temple complex whose vibrant architecture, intricate reliefs, and rich detailing create a truly distinctive visual language.
Around midday, we reach Tomonoura, a historic port town that has preserved its original character. Narrow streets, traditional houses, small boats, and the gentle rhythm of daily life invite us to capture the interplay of architecture, sea, and everyday moments.
In the late afternoon, we continue to Onomichi, a charming coastal town known for its narrow alleys, historic temples, and picturesque railway crossings. We explore the famous Temple Walk, leading us to impressive shrines and scenic viewpoints. From here, we enjoy breathtaking views over the town and the shimmering sea.
1 night in Onomichi
Kōsan-ji · Tomonoura · Onomichi
Nov 25, 2026
In the morning, we explore the historic district of Kurashiki, one of the most atmospheric locations in western Japan. Its white storehouses, canals, and small bridges create a distinctive setting. Reflections in the water, clean lines, and the calm atmosphere provide ideal photographic conditions, inviting us to slow down and develop compositions with intention.
Afterwards, we continue to nearby Okayama. Here, we take a more relaxed approach to the afternoon and visit Kōrakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three most celebrated landscape gardens. In the background rises the black silhouette of Okayama Castle, which, depending on the light, can either serve as a striking contrast or a subtle compositional element. This setting offers the perfect opportunity to refine individual ideas and continue developing ongoing photographic series.
1 night in Okayama
Kurashiki · Okayama
Nov 26, 2026
In the morning, we visit Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most impressive and best-preserved historic landmarks. Its clean, almost graphic architectural language, combined with expansive grounds and carefully designed sightlines, creates outstanding photographic opportunities.
Afterwards, we continue our journey to Osaka. We capture the sunset in the Shinsekai district, where its retro atmosphere and prominent observation tower provide a striking and characterful setting for photography.
For our final evening together, we enjoy dinner in the vibrant Dotonbori district, joined by a local friend of mine and his wife. The colorful lights and authentic atmosphere also offer excellent opportunities for night photography.
1 night in Osaka
Himeji · Osaka
Nov 27, 2026
Nov 28, 2026
Osaka
Individual departure or onward travel from Osaka.
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.
