Award-winning photographer Dwarakesh Iyengar, along with international photography mentor Priya Banik, is curating Autumn Colours of Japan, an 11-day photography tour across Japan. The journey will take place from 21 November to 1 December 2026.
Limited to 12 participants, the tour welcomes photographers of different skill levels. It also offers an immersive travel experience for those interested in Japanese culture, landscapes and everyday life.
The itinerary covers Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Kamakura and Kyoto. Participants will explore landscape, cityscape, street and cultural photography while also experiencing local food and connecting with fellow travellers.
Photographing Japan in Autumn
The tour draws inspiration from Dwarakesh Iyengar’s first visit to Japan during autumn. While cherry blossoms often define Japan’s spring landscape, autumn brings a distinct visual character.
During the season, colourful foliage surrounds temples, gardens and mountain landscapes. As a result, photographers can explore a wide range of subjects and compositions.
Japan’s varied geography adds further diversity to the itinerary. Participants will photograph Tokyo’s energetic streets, Mount Fuji’s surrounding landscapes and Kyoto’s traditional architecture framed by autumn colours.
The subjects will range from quiet temples and traditional villages to neon-lit streets and food markets. Meanwhile, everyday urban life will provide opportunities for candid and street photography.
From Tokyo to the Mount Fuji Region
The journey begins in Tokyo before moving towards the Mount Fuji region. Participants will photograph sunset and star trails around Lake Motosuko.
The itinerary also includes Lake Tanuki and Shiraito Falls. In addition, the group will visit Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba, allowing time for both photography and exploration.
After returning to Tokyo, participants will explore contrasting locations such as teamLab Borderless, Tokyo Skytree, Omoide Yokocho and Nezu Shrine.
The group will also visit Harajuku, Shibuya Crossing and Akihabara. At Rikugien Garden, photographers can shift their focus towards quieter landscapes and seasonal details.
A Photographic Day in Kamakura
The tour includes a day trip to Kamakura, where participants will visit the Great Buddha and explore the city’s traditional streets.
The itinerary also covers temples, local markets and the Enoden Line. Furthermore, participants will photograph the surrounding coastline.
Together, these locations create opportunities to capture architecture, culture, people and coastal landscapes.
Exploring Kyoto Through Photography
The group will travel to Kyoto by Shinkansen for another perspective on Japan’s autumn season.
Participants will explore atmospheric streets and Pontocho Alley. The itinerary also includes Arashiyama, Adashino Nenbutsu-ji and Otagi Nenbutsu-ji.
The experience continues with visits to Yusai-tei Gallery, Gion and Eikan-do Temple. At Nishiki Market, participants can combine food, street culture and photography.
On the final morning, the group will make an early visit to Enko-ji Temple. The timing will provide an opportunity to photograph autumn colours in quieter morning light.
Practical Photography Guidance
The tour combines travel with practical photography learning. Participants can receive guidance on both fundamental and advanced techniques throughout the journey.
Topics include RAW, aperture, shutter speed, ISO and exposure. The programme will also cover composition, lens selection and focal length.
In addition, participants can explore panoramic photography, long exposures and mobile photography. Photography guidance will remain available throughout the tour upon request.
Evenings will provide time to review photographs and exchange experiences. Participants can also socialise while exploring Japan’s local food culture.
Meet the Photography Mentors
Dwarakesh Iyengar works across street and landscape photography, with a focus on observation and quiet visual storytelling.
He holds a postgraduate qualification in photography from Light and Life Academy. He has also travelled extensively across 23 countries in India, Central Asia, Japan and Europe.
Iyengar has previously curated and led photography tours in Uzbekistan. The Japan tour extends this experience to another destination.
Joining him is Priya Banik, a visual storyteller, photography educator and mentor with more than two decades of experience in photography.
Banik holds a research-based Master’s degree in Photography from the University of Bradford, United Kingdom. She has worked across several countries with internationally acclaimed photographers and institutions.
She has also mentored emerging photographers through workshops, fellowships and travel-based learning programmes.
Tour Cost and Inclusions
The tour costs ₹1,95,000 per person. The package includes accommodation in a private twin-share room, transportation throughout the tour and entrance fees.
However, international and domestic flights, meals and beverages are not included. Travel and equipment insurance, visa fees and arrangements, local guide services and personal insurance are also excluded.
Sigma joins the tour as the Official Lens Partner.
Tour Details
- Tour: Autumn Colours of Japan – Photo Tour
- Dates: 21 November to 1 December 2026
- Duration: 11 days
- Group Size: 12 participants
- Price: ₹1,95,000 per person
- Curated by: Dwarakesh Iyengar
- Mentored by: Dwarakesh Iyengar & Priya Banik
- Official Lens Partner: Sigma
More Information: Autumn Colours of Japan Tour Details
