SNOW MONKEY - JAPAN

Tokyo | Takayama | Kanazawa | Yudanaka
FEBRUARY 10TH - 17TH 2027

A Photographer’s Winter Playground - Curated by a Mentor Who’s Walked These Streets : Mark Comon

Japan in February is a dreamscape of soft snow, ancient temples, and electric city lights - and I have built this itinerary so you can experience it the way a photographer sees it. From Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya crossing to the alpine charm of Shirakwago and Kanazawa’s hidden tea houses, every stop has been hand-picked for composition, culture, and storytelling potential.

You will feel the thrill of boarding the Shinkansen with your camera a the ready, share quiet moments in lantern-lit alleys, and watch the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani soak in steaming hot springs - one of the most magical scenes you will ever capture. Between frames, we will swap tips, refine techniques, and push creative boundaries together.

Curated and guided by trusted local friends and seasoned photo mentor, Mark Comon, this journey isn’t just a trip - it’s a story waiting to be told Through The Lens (TTL) of your camera. Bring your curiosity, your passion for story telling, and your sense of wonder

Your Story begins here.

Day 0 - Tuesday February 9th - Depart U.S to Haneda International (HND)

Day 1 - Wednesday February 10th - Tokyo

Arrive Tokyo, met by the Amazing Yoshi.  We’ll take the famous Tokyo Metro into town, Check in and have a relaxing afternoon with dinner at Yoshi’s favorite Izakaya.

Lodging:  Shinegawa Prince Hotel

Day 2 - Thursday February 11th - Tokyo Enjoy a fun and photographic tour of Tokyo:  Meiji Shrine, Harijuku and Shibuya Sky. 

Make amazing pictures on the streets and subway.  Lunch at a popular Ramen stand.

Lodging:  Shinegawa Prince Hotel

Day 3 - Friday February 12th – Tokyo - Takayama

Board the Shinkansen  bullet train to Takayama.  Enjoy the quaint photograph streets and meet the local people.  Takayama is a throwback to quieter Japan.

Lodging:  Associa Takayama Resort

Day 4 - Saturday February 13th - Takayama

Photographing the streets, people and vistas including Ginya, Kusakabe and Yatai Hall.
Lodging:  Associa Takayama Resort

Day 5 - Sunday February 14th – Takayama - Shirakawago Kanazawa

Motorcoach through the stunning Japanese countryside.  Stopping for scenic photos along the way.  Our destination Shirakawago is called the Switzerland of Japan.  Tiny A-frame houses, nestled in snow make ideal photos.  Visiting Hidano Sato and Wada Residence will cement out alpine visit.  Bus continues to Kanazawa.

Lodging:  Nikko Kanazawa

Day 6 - Monday February 15th – Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a beautiful, off the beaten path location featuring friendly people and unique architecture.  Motorcoach city tour of beautiful Kanazawa.  Stops include Higashi Chaya Machi, Kenrokuen Park and Kanazawa Castle.   

Lodging:  Nikko Kanazawa

Day 7 - Tuesday February 16th – Kanazawa

Kanazawa is a beautiful, off the beaten path location featuring friendly people and unique architecture.  Motorcoach city tour of beautiful Kanazawa.  Stops include Higashi Chaya Machi, Kenrokuen Park and Kanazawa Castle.   

Lodging:  Nikko Kanazawa

Day 8 - Wednesday February 17th – Kanazawa | Nagano | Yudanaka

Loving a ride on the  Bullet Train to Nagano and bus into the mountains today.  

Photograph the mountain hamlet of Yudanaka, walk the narrow streets, tour Zenkoji Temple and Obuse Woodblock Museum.  After our traditional dinner meet and photograph Mr Miyasaka, the Master Archer and his students!  A thrill for sure.   

Lodging:  Uotoshi Ryokan

Day 9 - Thursday February 18th – Snow Monkeys
A short drive brings un to the Snow Money Park and our lodge.  Walk up the snowy hill to the 700 year old hotel is pure heaven.  See and photograph the Snow Monkeys in the hot springs bath.  Our lodge is resting on the mountainside with bubbling hot springs it is a true historic Japanese gem!  Enjoy indoor or outdoor Onsen (Japanese Bath) while watching the Snow Monkeys play.  A true once in a lifetime experience.   

Lodging:  Korakukan Ryokan

Day 10 - Friday February 19th – Snow Monkeys
A full day at Snow Monkey Park and the Ryokan.    

Lodging:  Korakukan Ryokan

Day 11 - Saturday February 20th – Yudanaka | Nagano | Tokyo
Say farewell to Japan.  Bus to Nagano, bullet train to Tokyo, subway to Haneda HND. We’ll arrive at HND to catch our afternoon flights to the USA.    

Lodging:  Korakukan Ryokan

Your Adventure Team

INCLUSIONS

  • 4 Nights’ accommodation in 5-star hotels (double occupancy) with daily breakfast.

  • Arrival and departure and sightseeing by air-conditioned Urbania (minivan).

  • Sightseeing as per the Itinerary.

  • Entrance fees to monuments mentioned.

  • English speaking guide and photo leader.

  • Models shoot as mentioned. – Amber fort, Patrika Gate and Stepwell.

  • Unlimited packaged drinking water.

  • Government Service tax.

EXCLUSIONS

  • Personal extras, such as drinks, laundry, telephone, etcSightseeing as per the Itinerary.

  • Tips & gratuities to porters, drivers, and Guide.

  • Visa fees, Airport taxes, Camera/Video fees

  • Travel Insurance

  • Any other item not mentioned as included.

COST
USD 2,500.00 Double occupancy
USD 600.00 Single Supplement fee

FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO BOOK - CONTACT
Kelly Fricks
310.346.1825
kflatraveler42@gmail.com

Maurice O’ketch
661.678.3869
maurice@smexpedition.com