Japan: Sakura – Spring Cherry Blossom Photo Tour

National Geographic author and photographer Christopher P. Baker has used his knowledge of Japan based on his recent magazine assignments and commission to update the National Geographic Traveler Japan guidebook to create a sensational 13-day itinerary timed for Japan’s famous sakura—when the cherry blossoms explode in riotous color.

As the cherry blossoms burst open across the country, the Japanese delight in picnicking and hanami (flower viewing) parties to appreciate the transient beauty of the flowers, announcing the arrival of spring. The entire culture becomes besotted, with cherry blossoms appearing on all manner of commercial products.

Of course, we’ll also thrill to photographing Tokyo’s highlights, such as the Imperial Palace… as well as visits to magnificent temples and Buddhist shrines… stunning Mt. Fuji…the Japanese Alps, where you’ll photograph the world-famous “snow monkeys” soaking in steaming hot tubs… plus Kyoto, the ancient Japanese capital, with its geishas strolling the lantern-lit streets in kimonos. Plus, we’ll have our own private portrait sessions with maikos (trainee geishas), as well as a chance to photograph traditional weavers and a master katana swordsmith at work.

Along the way, you’ll be immersed in traditional, ancient Japan as we explore its tooi inaka (deep country), dress in yukatas (casual kimonos), feast on fresh seafoods, soak in communal onsen (hot springs), sleep on comfy futons atop tatami mats… and return home with your memories (and memory cards) chock-full of indelible memories.